Balsamic & Lemon Whole Wings
This is one of those recipes that hits all the right notes—crisp skin, bright acid, savory herbs, and just enough smoke from the coals. Whether you're feeding a crowd or just mixing things up midweek, these whole chicken wings are proof that simple ingredients, cooked right, always win.
Marinated in a blend of balsamic vinegar, olive oil, fresh rosemary, and optionally punched up with a healthy shake of Ranch & Rifle’s A.P., these wings get fire-grilled to perfection and finished with charred lemon juice straight off the grate.
Ingredients:
2–3 lbs whole chicken wings
½ cup balsamic vinegar
½ cup olive oil
2 tbsp fresh rosemary, finely chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
Kosher salt & black pepper, to taste
Optional: 1 tbsp Ranch & Rifle’s A.P. seasoning
2–3 whole lemons, halved
Instructions:
1. Marinate the Wings
In a large bowl or zip-top bag, combine balsamic vinegar, olive oil, rosemary, garlic, salt, pepper, and The A.P. (if using) and stir well. Add the wings and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for maximum flavor.
2. Prep the Grill
Fire up your charcoal grill for medium-high direct heat. Bank your coals to one side for a two-zone setup.
3. Grill the Wings
Remove wings from the marinade, letting the excess drip off (but save the marinade—you’ll use it to baste). Place the wings directly over the coals. Grill, turning frequently and basting with the reserved marinade as you go.
Let the wings develop color and char, about 20–25 minutes total, depending on heat. If flare-ups happen, move the wings to the cooler side of the grill.
4. Grill the Lemons
While the wings are cooking, place your lemon halves cut-side down on the grill until they’re soft and caramelized—about 5–7 minutes.
5. Finish With Fire & Citrus
When the wings are just about done, give them one last baste and squeeze those grilled lemons right over the top. The smoke, balsamic, rosemary, and lemon juice come together in a way that makes these wings taste way fancier than they are.
Pro Tip:
Serve with extra grilled lemon wedges and a side of herbed yogurt or ranch. These are perfect for summer nights, tailgate setups, or just feeding whoever’s hanging around the fire.