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PRINTABLE RECIPE

Italian Herb Grilled Wings

Crispy, juicy grilled wings with fresh herbs, garlic, and lemon, tossed hot off the grill in a buttery Parmesan lemon-basil finishing sauce for a light, Italian-inspired twist.

Italian Herb Grilled Wings
Author admin
Prep Time 15 Min (plus 2–8 hrs marinating)
Cook Time 30 Min
Total Time 2 Hrs 45 Min (with minimum marinating time)

Ingredients

Wings

  • 3 lbs chicken wings, split and patted very dry
  • 3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • 5 garlic cloves, finely grated
  • 2 tbsp finely chopped fresh parsley
  • 1 tbsp finely chopped fresh oregano (or 1 tsp dried)
  • 1 tsp kosher salt
  • 1 tsp freshly cracked black pepper
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • ½ tsp onion powder
  • ½ tsp Italian seasoning
  • ¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

Lemon Basil Herb Finishing Sauce

  • 3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 garlic cloves, finely grated
  • 2 tbsp finely chopped fresh parsley
  • 2 tbsp finely chopped fresh basil
  • 1 tsp finely chopped fresh oregano
  • 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tsp lemon zest
  • 2 tbsp freshly grated Parmigiano Reggiano
  • Pinch of kosher salt
  • Freshly cracked black pepper

For Serving

  • Freshly grated Parmigiano Reggiano
  • Chopped fresh parsley
  • Thin ribbons of fresh basil
  • 1–2 grilled lemon halves

Instructions

  1. Marinate the Wings

Pat the chicken wings completely dry with paper towels.

In a large bowl, combine:

  • Olive oil
  • Lemon zest
  • Garlic
  • Parsley
  • Oregano
  • Kosher salt
  • Black pepper
  • Smoked paprika
  • Onion powder
  • Italian seasoning
  • Crushed red pepper flakes (if using)

Add the wings and toss until evenly coated.

Cover and refrigerate for 2–8 hours.

  1. Grill the Wings

Preheat the grill to 375–400°F (medium heat). If possible, set up a two-zone fire with both indirect and direct heat. Place the wings over indirect heat and cook for 20–25 minutes, turning every 5–6 minutes.

Move the wings over direct heat and grill for another 5–8 minutes, until the skin is crisp with light char and the internal temperature reaches 175–185°F.

  1. Make the Lemon Basil Herb Sauce

While the wings cook, whisk together:

  • Olive oil
  • Melted butter
  • Garlic
  • Parsley
  • Basil
  • Oregano
  • Lemon juice
  • Lemon zest
  • Parmigiano Reggiano
  • Kosher salt
  • Black pepper
  1. Grill the Lemons

Place the lemon halves cut-side down on the grill.

Cook for 2–3 minutes, until lightly caramelized.

  1. Finish

Transfer the hot wings to a large bowl. Immediately toss with the lemon basil herb finishing sauce until every wing is evenly coated.

Transfer to a serving platter and finish with:

  • Freshly grated Parmigiano Reggiano
  • Chopped parsley
  • Fresh basil ribbons
  • A generous squeeze of grilled lemon

Serve immediately.