Smoked Chicken Wings Elevated: A Game-Changing Recipe
The Secret Ingredient: Blue Moon
You’ve heard the phrase “once in a blue moon,” but when it comes to these smoked chicken wings, the phrase takes on a whole new meaning. The addition of Blue Moon beer to the marinade is a game-changer, resulting in a sweet, smoky, and tender culinary masterpiece.
A Family Recipe Revamped
My dad’s original recipe for chicken marinade was already a crowd-pleaser, but the introduction of Blue Moon takes it to new heights. The sugars in the beer caramelize to create a burst of flavor that will leave your guests begging for more.
The Recipe
Yield: 1-4 servings
Total Time: 90 minutes
Ingredients
- 3 pounds chicken wings
- 1 cup Blue Moon Honey Wheat beer
- 1 cup cider vinegar
- 1 stick butter (not margarine)
- 1 heaping tablespoon garlic paste
- 1 tablespoon sea salt
- 1 tablespoon orange juice
- 1 teaspoon pepper of your choice
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Grill
Set your BBQ pit kettle or gas grill to 225-250°F. You can cook your wings indirect or away from direct flames to prevent burning. Keep a water bottle nearby, just in case.
Step 2: Create the Marinade
In a 2-quart saucepan, melt the butter (except for the Blue Moon). Add all ingredients, except the vinegar, and mix into a paste. Gradually add the vinegar, then stir in the Blue Moon. Bring to a soft boil, then remove from heat. Get your favorite basting brush ready!
Step 3: Grill and Baste
Arrange your wings on the BBQ pit, keeping them away from direct flames. Lightly salt and pepper (but don’t overdo it, since there’s already salt and pepper in the marinade). Every 15 minutes, check your grill and flip the wings using a spatula to roll them around in clumps. Baste with the marinade each time you flip. If flames appear, use your water bottle to extinguish them. Continue basting until the wings are golden crusty brown. Serve immediately.
Oven Option
If you don’t have a BBQ pit, you can cook these wings in your oven at 225-250°F. Baste and turn as you would if you were grilling. While you won’t get the same “grill” flavor, they’ll still be delicious!
Leave a Reply