How Long to BBQ Wings - Outdoor Cabinets

Introduction

Barbecued wings are a classic appetizer that can be found on menus across America. Juicy and saucy with a hint of smoke, bbq wings are a crowd-pleasing snack or meal. But with so many methods and recipes out there, it can be tricky to know exactly how long to grill or barbecue wings to achieve maximum flavor and tenderness. In this guide, we’ll walk through the process step-by-step, from choosing your wings to determining doneness. With a few simple techniques, you’ll turn out foolproof barbecue wings every time.

Choosing Your Wings

The first step is selecting what type of wings to use:

Chicken Wings – This is the most common choice. Opt for jumbo wings for the best meat-to-bone ratio.
Chicken Drummettes – These are the meatier upper portions of the wing. Easy to eat and juicy.
Turkey Wings – A lighter option, though they have less fat so can dry out if overcooked.
Duck Wings – Richer and fattier than chicken. Need longer cooking time.

No matter what you choose, look for wings that are evenly sized for even cooking. Rinse and pat dry thoroughly before cooking.

BBQ Methods for Wings

There are two main ways to barbecue wings: indirect grilling and smoking.

Indirect Grilling

This method involves placing the wings indirectly next to the heat source, not directly over it. The grill should be set up for two-zone cooking, with coals piled on one side and the other side empty.

To indirect grill wings:

Place wings on the cool, empty side of the grill, not over the coals.
Grill with the lid closed as much as possible, turning occasionally.
Cook for 30-40 minutes until browned and cooked through.
Move the wings directly over the coals just to finish with a char.

Smoking

For true barbecue flavor, smoked wings can’t be beat. You’ll need a smoker or a charcoal grill setup for smoking.

To smoke wings:

Place wings on the smoker rack, away from direct heat.
Smoke at 225-250°F, flipping wings periodically.
Smoke for 1-1.5 hours until browned and tender.
Optional: Move wings over direct heat to finish with a sear.

No matter which method you use, the key is indirect, low heat to gently cook the wings without burning.

How Long Should You Cook Wings?

Cooking times can vary based on the size of your wings and whether you’re grilling or smoking them. Here are general guidelines:

For jumbo grilled wings, cook for 35-40 minutes.
For jumbo smoked wings, cook for 1-1.5 hours at 225°F.
Smaller or cubed wings may cook 5-10 minutes faster.
Meatier drummettes may take 5 minutes longer than flat wings.
Turkey or duck wings require 15-20 minutes extra time.

Checking Doneness of Wings

The best way to test wings for doneness is by using a thermometer. Chicken should reach 165°F at the thickest part. For safety, turkey and duck should hit 165°F too.

Signs your wings are done:

Meat pulling away from the bone
Clear, not red, juices
Poking wing with tongs and meat feels firm
Charred bits on some edges

If unsure, cut into a wing to check – meat should not be pink inside. Cook longer if needed until fully cooked.

6 FAQs About BBQ Wings

How can I keep my wings moist when grilling?

Wrap wings in foil or butcher paper when almost finished cooking. This steams the wings and keeps them juicy.

Should I marinate wings before cooking?

Yes, marinating for 30 mins up to overnight adds great flavor. Just pat wings dry before grilling or smoking.

What temperature should I set my smoker to?

225-250°F is ideal for smoking wings without overcooking.

Can I grill and smoke wings at the same time?

Yes, place wings on indirect heat side first to partly cook, then move over direct heat to finish off.

How do I get crispy skin on my wings?

Let wings air dry in the fridge uncovered overnight before cooking. Grill or smoke until done, then broil or fry briefly to crisp the skin.

What wood is best for smoking wings?

Fruit woods like apple, cherry, pecan, and hickory give great flavor to wings without overpowering.

BBQ Wing Cooking Times Chart

Conclusion

Perfectly barbecued wings are all about mastering the art of slow, indirect cooking. Allow 1-1.5 hours for smoked wings or 30-40 minutes for grilled, keeping a close eye on doneness. Follow our tips for choosing wings, setup, temperature, and testing for doneness. With the right techniques, you’ll be rewarded with juicy, saucy and smoky wings everyone will rave about. Enjoy your next barbecue feast!