So, you want to grill chicken wings like a boss? Well, buckle up, because we’re about to take your grill game from “meh” to “OMG are those wings Michelin-rated?” First, stop buying those sad, pre-frozen wings that have been sitting in the back of the freezer aisle since the last presidential election. Fresh wings are where it’s at. Trust us, your taste buds (and your grilling reputation) will thank you.

Step 1: Marinate for Flavor

Marinate those bad boys overnight if you really want to flex on your taste buds. Olive oil, garlic, paprika, and your favorite hot sauce make a marinade so good it’ll have your neighbors sniffing around like stray cats. Got a favorite spice mix? Toss it in and make it your signature flavor. Bonus points if you add a splash of apple cider vinegar or lime juice for extra tang. Don’t have time to marinate overnight? Even an hour can work wonders.

Want a little inspiration? Try adding soy sauce and a touch of honey for a sweet-and-savory vibe or go all out with a Caribbean jerk seasoning mix.

Step 2: Prep Your Grill Like a Pro

When grilling, keep the heat at medium (about 350°F), because no one likes wings that are burnt on the outside and raw in the middle. Set up your grill for two-zone cooking: one side for direct heat and the other for indirect heat. This way, you can slow-cook the wings and then finish them with a sear. Pro tip: add some wood chips to your grill for that extra smoky flavor—fancy, right? Hickory and mesquite are great choices, but cherry wood adds a subtle sweetness that pairs beautifully with barbecue sauces.

Don’t forget to oil the grates before placing the wings. Sticky situations are best left to sauces, not your grill. You’re about to become the backyard grilling legend you were always meant to be.

Step 3: Get Cooking

Grill over indirect heat for 20-25 minutes, flipping occasionally to ensure even cooking. To finish, give them a quick char over direct heat. That sear? It’s where the magic happens. The result? Wings that are smoky, crispy, and utterly irresistible. Worried about undercooking? Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature hits 165°F.

Pro Tip: Cleanliness is Key

Oh, and one more thing—don’t be that person who skips cleaning the grill beforehand. Your wings deserve a clean stage to shine. Grilling is 10% skill, 90% not being lazy about maintenance.

Bonus Round: Saucing It Up

Once your wings are perfectly grilled, it’s time to sauce ‘em up. Toss them in your favorite wing sauce, or better yet, set up a sauce bar for your guests. Buffalo, garlic parmesan, Korean BBQ—the options are endless.

By the end of your grilling session, your neighbors will either love you for the smell or hate you for not sharing. Either way, you win.