If you are looking for a vibrant and crowd-pleasing summer dish, the Grilled Chicken Wings with Corn Recipe is a perfect choice that never fails to impress. This dish combines the irresistible smoky char of perfectly grilled chicken wings with the sweet, buttery goodness of fresh corn on the cob. It’s a joyful dance of flavors and textures, featuring a lively blend of spices and a touch of zesty lime that awakens the palate. Whether you’re firing up the grill for a casual backyard hangout or impressing guests at your weekend BBQ, these grilled chicken wings paired with tender, flavorful corn make for a simple yet unforgettable meal that will keep everyone coming back for more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
As with any great recipe, the charm lies in the ingredients. Here, each element plays an essential role—not only to build the flavor profile but also to add texture and color brilliance to your plate. These straightforward items come together to create the perfect harmony of taste and presentation.
- Chicken wings (2 pounds): Choose a mix of drums and flats for varied texture and size.
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons): Helps in marinating the wings and achieving a golden, crispy skin on the grill.
- Smoked paprika (1 teaspoon): Adds a warm, smoky flavor that complements the char from the grill.
- Garlic powder (1 teaspoon): Enhances savory depth without overpowering.
- Onion powder (1 teaspoon): Adds subtle sweetness and complexity.
- Cayenne pepper (1/2 teaspoon, optional): Provides just a hint of heat to keep things exciting.
- Salt (1 teaspoon): Balances and brings out all the flavors.
- Black pepper (1/2 teaspoon): Adds mild pungency and warmth.
- Lime juice (juice of 1 lime): Brightens the marinade with fresh, zesty acidity.
- Fresh corn (4 ears, husked): Sweetness and smokiness from grilling make it a perfect match with the wings.
- Butter (2 tablespoons, melted): Adds richness and helps the corn develop a golden crust.
- Chili powder (1/2 teaspoon, optional): A subtle spicy kick that enhances the corn’s natural sweetness.
- Fresh lime wedges and chopped cilantro: For garnish, adding color and a burst of fresh flavor.
How to Make Grilled Chicken Wings with Corn Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Grill and Marinade
Start by preheating your grill to a lively medium-high heat, around 400 degrees Fahrenheit. While the grill heats, toss the separated chicken wings in a large bowl with olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic and onion powders, cayenne pepper if you like a little spice, salt, black pepper, and the juice of one lime. This marinade not only infuses the wings with flavor but also prepares their skin for that luscious grilled texture. Let the wings soak up these bold notes for about 15 to 30 minutes.
Step 2: Get the Corn Ready for Grilling
Brush each ear of corn generously with melted butter, which will create a delicious crust when grilled. Season the corn lightly with salt and pepper, and sprinkle the chili powder if you want an extra layer of warmth. This simple seasoning enhances the natural sweetness of the corn and pairs beautifully with the smoky wings.
Step 3: Grill the Chicken Wings
Place the wings on your hot grill and cook them carefully for 20 to 25 minutes, turning every 5 to 6 minutes to ensure all sides get that perfect golden char. This patience results in wings that are juicy inside with a crisp, smoky exterior. Be mindful that the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit for safe eating.
Step 4: Add Corn and Finish Cooking
When the wings are about halfway done, place the prepared corn on the grill. Grill the corn for 10 to 12 minutes, turning occasionally until the kernels are tender and exhibit delightful grill marks. The freshness and slight char add a wonderful contrast to the rich wings.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once both the wings and corn are cooked to perfection, remove them from the grill. Arrange on a platter with fresh lime wedges and a sprinkle of chopped cilantro for a fresh finish. If you like, add a drizzle of your favorite BBQ or hot sauce for an extra kick right before serving.
How to Serve Grilled Chicken Wings with Corn Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh lime wedges and chopped cilantro are natural companions to this dish. Their bright, herbal notes beautifully balance the smoky richness, and their vibrant colors make the presentation irresistible. Feel free to add a sprinkle of coarse sea salt or a dash of your preferred chili flakes for extra flair.
Side Dishes
To round out your meal, consider simple sides like a crisp garden salad, creamy coleslaw, or even grilled vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers. These fresh additions bring a refreshing crunch and can lighten up the richness of the wings and corn, making each bite more enjoyable.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the wings and corn on rustic wooden boards for a farmhouse feel, or pile the wings high on a colorful platter adorned with lime wedges and cilantro sprigs. For a fun twist, cut the grilled corn kernels off the cob and toss them into a tangy salad or salsa to serve alongside the wings. Presentation is just another way to amp up excitement around this vibrant dish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers (which can be rare!), store the chicken wings and corn separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to three days, allowing you to enjoy a quick, delicious meal the next day.
Freezing
For longer storage, you can freeze cooked chicken wings by placing them in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty bag, ideally vacuum-sealed. The corn is better enjoyed fresh or refrigerated, as freezing can change its texture. Frozen wings maintain their flavor and texture best for up to two months.
Reheating
Reheat the wings in an oven or air fryer at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 10 minutes to regain their crispness. Avoid microwaving if you want to preserve the smoky grilled texture. For the corn, a quick grill or broiler blast will warm it through and bring back some of its original charred charm.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken wings for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw the wings completely before marinating and grilling to ensure even cooking and the best texture. Frozen wings often benefit from a bit more marinade time to fully soak up all those lovely seasonings.
Is it necessary to use cayenne pepper?
Not at all. Cayenne adds a hint of heat, but if you prefer a milder flavor, simply leave it out. The recipe still shines with the smoky paprika and zesty lime.
Can I make this recipe indoors using a grill pan or oven?
Yes, you can! A grill pan over medium-high heat works well to replicate those beautiful sear marks, and the oven broiler can finish the cooking with a nice char. Just keep an eye on cooking times as they might vary slightly compared to outdoor grilling.
What can I serve with the leftover grilled chicken wings?
Leftovers can be great in salads, tacos, or even tossed in your favorite BBQ sauce for a snack. Mixing up the sides gives you plenty of variety after the initial meal.
How do I know when the chicken wings are fully cooked?
The best way is to use a meat thermometer — the internal temperature should reach 165 degrees Fahrenheit. If you don’t have one, make sure the juices run clear and the meat is firm with no pinkness inside.
Final Thoughts
Nothing beats the joy of biting into smoky, spice-kissed grilled chicken wings with sweet, buttery corn fresh off the grill. This Grilled Chicken Wings with Corn Recipe is a celebration of summer flavors made simple and accessible, perfect for sharing good times with family and friends. Don’t hesitate to give it a try—you might just discover your new favorite go-to for outdoor dining and festive gatherings.
Print
Grilled Chicken Wings with Corn Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Enjoy this flavorful and easy summer recipe featuring perfectly grilled chicken wings seasoned with a smoky spice blend and zesty lime, paired with buttery charred corn on the cob. Ideal for outdoor gatherings, this dish combines classic American grilling with fresh, vibrant tastes.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Wings:
- 2 pounds chicken wings (drums and flats separated)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Juice of 1 lime
For the Corn:
- 4 ears fresh corn (husks removed)
- 2 tablespoons butter (melted)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional)
- Fresh lime wedges and chopped cilantro for serving
Instructions
- Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, approximately 400°F (200°C), ensuring it’s ready for cooking the wings and corn evenly.
- Prepare the Chicken Wings: In a large bowl, toss the chicken wings with olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, optional cayenne pepper, salt, black pepper, and lime juice until well coated. Allow the wings to marinate for 15 to 30 minutes while the grill is heating.
- Prepare the Corn: Brush each ear of corn with the melted butter, then season with salt, pepper, and chili powder if using. Set aside until ready to grill.
- Grill the Chicken Wings: Place the marinated wings on the preheated grill. Cook for 20 to 25 minutes, turning them every 5 to 6 minutes to ensure even charring and thorough cooking. The wings are done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Grill the Corn: Add the prepared corn to the grill during the last 10 to 12 minutes of cooking. Rotate the corn occasionally to develop a light char and tenderness.
- Serve: Remove the wings and corn from the grill. Serve immediately garnished with lime wedges and fresh chopped cilantro. Optionally, brush wings with your favorite BBQ or hot sauce just before removing them for extra flavor.
Notes
- You can finish the wings with your favorite BBQ sauce or hot sauce in the last few minutes of grilling for added flavor.
- Frozen corn can be used in a pinch—microwave or boil it first, then grill briefly for char.
