Wings are a quintessential crowd-pleaser, perfect for game days, backyard barbecues, or a simple weeknight indulgence. While frying offers a crispy exterior, grilling wings on a REC TEC grill adds a smoky depth of flavor that’s simply irresistible. This guide will walk you through every step, from selecting the perfect wings to achieving that sought-after crispy skin and juicy interior, all with the help of your trusty REC TEC pellet grill.
Choosing the Right Wings and Preparing for Success
The foundation of incredible wings lies in the quality of the wings themselves. Understanding the different cuts and preparation techniques will set you up for success before you even fire up the grill.
Selecting the Best Wings
Freshness is paramount. Look for wings that are plump, with a healthy pink color. Avoid wings that appear slimy or have an off-putting odor. You can purchase whole wings and separate them yourself, or opt for pre-separated wingettes (flats) and drumettes. Whole wings will take slightly longer to cook, but offer a more rustic presentation.
Consider buying air-chilled wings if available. This process results in drier skin, which is essential for achieving that crispy texture we crave.
Prepping Your Wings for the Grill
Proper preparation is key. Start by patting the wings dry with paper towels. This removes excess moisture and helps the skin crisp up better.
If you have time, consider dry brining the wings. Sprinkle them generously with kosher salt (about 1 teaspoon per pound) and let them sit uncovered in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. This process draws out moisture, further drying the skin and seasoning the meat from the inside out.
Seasoning for Flavor Explosion
The possibilities for wing seasoning are endless. You can opt for a simple salt and pepper rub, or get creative with more complex spice blends. Consider using a combination of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, and brown sugar for a sweet and savory flavor.
Experiment with different flavor profiles to find your favorite. Some popular options include:
- Lemon Pepper: A classic combination of lemon zest, black pepper, and salt.
- Buffalo: A fiery blend of cayenne pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and butter (added after grilling).
- Honey Garlic: A sweet and savory glaze made with honey, garlic, soy sauce, and ginger.
No matter what seasoning you choose, make sure to apply it generously and evenly to all sides of the wings.
The REC TEC Grill Advantage: Smoke, Flavor, and Consistency
REC TEC grills are renowned for their precise temperature control and consistent performance. This makes them ideal for cooking wings, as you can maintain a steady temperature and ensure even cooking. The pellet smoker also imparts a wonderful smoky flavor that elevates the wings to another level.
Setting Up Your REC TEC Grill
Start by cleaning your grill grates to remove any residue from previous cooks. This will prevent the wings from sticking and ensure even heat distribution.
Choose your preferred wood pellets. For wings, milder wood flavors like apple, cherry, or pecan are excellent choices. They provide a subtle smokiness that complements the flavor of the wings without being overpowering.
Fill the hopper with your chosen wood pellets and set the grill to your desired temperature. We’ll discuss specific temperature settings in the next section. Allow the grill to preheat completely before adding the wings.
Temperature Control and Cooking Times
Achieving the perfect balance of crispy skin and juicy interior requires careful temperature control. The ideal temperature range for cooking wings on a REC TEC grill is between 250°F and 375°F.
For a low and slow approach, set the grill to 250°F. This will allow the wings to absorb more smoke flavor and render out some of the fat, resulting in extra crispy skin. This method typically takes around 1.5 to 2 hours.
For a faster cook, set the grill to 375°F. This will crisp up the skin more quickly, but you’ll need to keep a close eye on the wings to prevent them from burning. This method typically takes around 45 minutes to 1 hour.
You can also use a combination of both temperatures. Start at 250°F for the first hour to impart smoke flavor, then increase the temperature to 375°F for the final 30 minutes to crisp up the skin.
Monitoring Internal Temperature
The best way to ensure that your wings are cooked through is to use a meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the drumette, avoiding the bone. The internal temperature should reach 165°F.
While 165°F is the safe minimum internal temperature for poultry, many wing enthusiasts prefer to cook their wings to a slightly higher temperature, around 175-185°F. This helps to render out more of the fat and results in a more tender and flavorful wing.
Grilling Techniques for Wing Mastery
Place the wings directly on the grill grates, leaving some space between them to allow for even heat circulation. Avoid overcrowding the grill, as this can lower the temperature and prevent the wings from cooking properly.
Flip the wings every 15-20 minutes to ensure even cooking and prevent them from burning. If you notice any areas that are browning too quickly, you can move the wings to a cooler part of the grill.
Crispy Skin Secrets
To achieve truly crispy skin, there are a few extra tricks you can try.
- Increase the temperature during the last 15-20 minutes of cooking to 400°F.
- Place the wings directly over the hottest part of the grill for a few minutes per side.
- Use a dry rub with baking powder. Baking powder helps to draw out moisture and promote crisping.
Saucing and Serving Your Wings
Once the wings are cooked to perfection, it’s time to add your favorite sauce. Whether you prefer classic Buffalo sauce, tangy barbecue sauce, or a sweet and spicy glaze, the right sauce can take your wings to the next level.
Choosing the Right Sauce
The sauce you choose will depend on your personal preferences. Consider the following factors:
- Flavor profile: Do you prefer sweet, savory, spicy, or tangy?
- Consistency: Do you want a thick and sticky sauce or a thinner, more glaze-like sauce?
- Heat level: How much spice can you handle?
Some popular wing sauce options include:
- Buffalo Sauce: A classic combination of hot sauce, butter, and vinegar.
- Barbecue Sauce: A sweet and smoky sauce made with tomatoes, vinegar, brown sugar, and spices.
- Honey Garlic Sauce: A sweet and savory glaze made with honey, garlic, soy sauce, and ginger.
- Teriyaki Sauce: A sweet and salty glaze made with soy sauce, sake, mirin, and sugar.
Saucing Techniques
There are two main ways to sauce your wings:
- Tossing: Toss the wings in a bowl with the sauce until they are evenly coated. This is the most common method and works well for most sauces.
- Brushing: Brush the sauce onto the wings while they are still on the grill. This method is best for thicker sauces that you want to caramelize.
If you are using a sauce with a high sugar content, be careful not to burn the wings. Apply the sauce during the last 10-15 minutes of cooking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your wings hot off the grill with your favorite dipping sauces, such as ranch dressing, blue cheese dressing, or a creamy garlic aioli. Celery sticks and carrot sticks are also classic accompaniments.
Consider pairing your wings with a variety of sides, such as:
- French fries
- Coleslaw
- Mac and cheese
- Potato salad
Troubleshooting and Tips for Success
Even with the best intentions, things can sometimes go wrong. Here are some common problems and solutions:
- Wings are not crispy: Make sure to pat the wings dry before seasoning, dry brine them if possible, and increase the temperature during the last 15-20 minutes of cooking.
- Wings are burning: Reduce the temperature of the grill, move the wings to a cooler part of the grill, or apply the sauce later in the cooking process.
- Wings are not cooked through: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature and cook the wings to at least 165°F.
- Wings are sticking to the grill: Make sure to clean the grill grates thoroughly and oil them before adding the wings.
With a little practice and patience, you’ll be grilling up perfect wings on your REC TEC grill in no time. Enjoy!
REC TEC Wing Recipe Example
Here’s a basic recipe to get you started:
Ingredients:
- 3 lbs chicken wings (drumettes and flats)
- 2 tbsp kosher salt
- 1 tbsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp onion powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- Your favorite wing sauce
Instructions:
- Pat the wings dry with paper towels.
- In a bowl, combine the salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
- Sprinkle the dry rub evenly over the wings, ensuring all surfaces are coated.
- Preheat your REC TEC grill to 250°F.
- Place the wings on the grill grates, leaving some space between them.
- Cook for 1 hour, flipping the wings every 20 minutes.
- Increase the grill temperature to 375°F.
- Cook for another 30 minutes, or until the wings are cooked through and the skin is crispy, flipping occasionally.
- Remove the wings from the grill and toss them in your favorite wing sauce.
- Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauces and sides.
What temperature should I set my REC TEC grill to for cooking wings?
The ideal temperature for cooking wings on a REC TEC grill is typically between 375°F and 400°F. This temperature range allows the wings to cook evenly and develop a crispy skin without burning. Using a slightly higher temperature than traditional smoking temperatures ensures the fat renders properly, resulting in a more desirable texture.
Experimentation is key to finding your preferred level of crispiness. Lower temperatures might result in softer skin, while excessively high temperatures can lead to charring. Monitor the wings closely during the cooking process and adjust the temperature accordingly to achieve optimal results.
How long does it take to cook wings on a REC TEC grill?
Cooking time can vary depending on the size of the wings and the specific temperature of your REC TEC grill, but generally, wings will take approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour. It’s crucial to monitor the internal temperature of the wings to ensure they are fully cooked.
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the thickest part of the wing, avoiding the bone. The wings should reach an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure they are safe to eat. Once they reach this temperature and the skin is crispy to your liking, they are ready to be removed from the grill.
What type of wood pellets should I use for smoking wings on my REC TEC?
For wings, lighter fruitwoods like apple or cherry are excellent choices as they impart a subtle sweetness that complements the flavor of the chicken. Hickory or pecan can also be used for a stronger, smokier flavor, but be mindful not to overpower the wings with too much smoke.
Ultimately, the best wood pellet choice is a matter of personal preference. Consider the type of sauce or rub you’re using on the wings, and select a wood pellet that will complement those flavors. Experiment with different wood types to find your perfect flavor combination.
Should I marinate or brine my wings before grilling them on a REC TEC?
Marinating or brining wings prior to grilling can significantly enhance their flavor and juiciness. A marinade can infuse the wings with various flavors, while a brine helps to retain moisture during the cooking process, preventing them from drying out.
If you choose to brine, soak the wings in a salt and sugar solution for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight. For a marinade, allow the wings to soak for at least 30 minutes, or up to several hours, depending on the intensity of flavor desired. Always discard the marinade or brine after use.
How do I get crispy skin on my wings when cooking them on a REC TEC?
Achieving crispy skin on wings cooked on a REC TEC grill requires a few key techniques. First, ensure the wings are completely dry before placing them on the grill. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
Second, cook the wings at a slightly higher temperature, ideally between 375°F and 400°F. This helps to render the fat in the skin, resulting in a crispier texture. Finally, consider using a dry rub that contains baking powder, as it helps to draw out moisture and promote crisping.
What are some popular sauce options for wings cooked on a REC TEC grill?
The sauce options for wings are virtually limitless, but some popular choices include classic buffalo sauce, tangy barbecue sauce, sweet and sticky teriyaki sauce, and savory garlic parmesan sauce. You can also experiment with different flavor combinations to create your own signature wing sauce.
Consider making your own sauce from scratch to have complete control over the ingredients and flavor profile. Whether you prefer a spicy, sweet, or savory sauce, there’s a wing sauce to suit every taste. Remember to sauce the wings during the last few minutes of cooking to allow the sauce to caramelize slightly and adhere to the skin.
How should I store leftover wings cooked on my REC TEC?
Leftover wings should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To ensure optimal food safety, refrigerate the wings as soon as possible after cooking, ideally within two hours.
When reheating, you can use an oven, microwave, or air fryer to warm the wings. For the best results, reheat the wings in the oven or air fryer to help maintain their crispiness. Reheat until they are heated through and reach an internal temperature of 165°F.