Ingredients
Marinade
- 1 large red onion, quartered
- 8 garlic cloves
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- Juice of 2 lemons
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
- 1 teaspoon coriander
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon Aleppo pepper (or 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes)
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
Main Ingredients
- 2 1/2 pounds chicken wings
- Kosher salt, to season
- 2 lemons, halved (for grilling and serving)
Instructions
- Make the marinade: In the bowl of a large food processor fitted with a blade, combine the quartered red onion, garlic cloves, olive oil, lemon juice, and all spices including paprika, coriander, cumin, Aleppo pepper, turmeric, and nutmeg. Pulse until it forms a well-combined thick marinade.
- Season the wings: Season the chicken wings generously with kosher salt. Place them in a zip-top bag and pour the marinade over them. Seal the bag tightly and massage to ensure the wings are evenly coated with the marinade.
- Marinate: Lay the bag flat on a large plate or tray and refrigerate for 2 to 4 hours. Turn the bag over once midway through to redistribute the marinade for even absorption.
- Warm up the grill: Preheat your gas grill to 425°F (220°C). Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
- Grill the wings: Shake off excess marinade from the wings. Arrange them over direct heat on the grill. Cover and cook for 15 to 20 minutes total, turning every 5 minutes to ensure even cooking. The wings should be fully cooked through with crispy, charred skin. Grill the lemon halves flesh side down until slightly caramelized.
- Serve and enjoy: Serve the grilled wings immediately with the grilled lemon halves. Squeeze the lemon juice over the wings to your liking. Optionally, serve with a dipping sauce such as tzatziki for a cool contrast.
Notes
- Marinating for at least 2 hours enhances the flavor and tenderness but do not marinate longer than 4 hours to avoid overpowering the wings.
- Ensure the grill is properly preheated and oiled to prevent the wings from sticking and promote good grill marks.
- Turning the wings frequently on the grill helps cook them evenly and prevents burning.
- The recipe uses Aleppo pepper for a mild heat and fruity flavor, but red pepper flakes can be used as an alternative for more heat.
- Leftover wings can be reheated in an oven or air fryer to maintain crispiness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Grilled Chicken Wings
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mediterranean