Thai Grilled Chicken Wings with Sweet Hot Garlic Sauce

Grilled to Perfection: Thai Grilled Chicken Wings with Sweet Hot Garlic Sauce

Are you ready to take your taste buds on a culinary adventure? Look no further than these Thai Grilled Chicken Wings with Sweet Hot Garlic Sauce. Bursting with bold flavors and tantalizing aromas, these wings are sure to become a new favorite in your recipe repertoire. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or simply craving something deliciously different for dinner, these Thai-inspired wings are guaranteed to impress. In this blog post, we’ll walk you through the steps to create this mouthwatering dish, along with some handy tips, variations, and even keto and low-carb versions for those looking to stick to a healthier lifestyle. Let’s fire up the grill and get cooking!

Ingredients:

Meat:

  • 3 lbs Chicken thighs and legs

Produce:

  • 1/4 cup Fresh cilantro roots (or roots & stems)
  • 1/4 cup Fresh garlic

Condiments:

  • 3 tbsp Soy sauce

Baking & Spices:

  • 2 tsp Whole white or black peppercorns
  • 1 tsp Salt
  • 1 tsp Sugar

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

  1. In a blender or food processor, combine the fresh cilantro roots (or roots & stems), fresh garlic, soy sauce, whole peppercorns, salt, and sugar.
  2. Blend the ingredients until smooth, forming a fragrant marinade.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

  1. Place the chicken thighs and legs in a large resealable plastic bag or shallow dish.
  2. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure to coat each piece evenly.
  3. Seal the bag or cover the dish, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to infuse the meat.

Step 3: Preheat the Grill

  1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375-400°F).

Step 4: Grill the Chicken Wings

  1. Remove the marinated chicken from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes.
  2. Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
  3. Place the chicken thighs and legs on the preheated grill, skin side down.
  4. Grill the chicken for 5-6 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked and nicely charred, with an internal temperature of 165°F.
  5. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

Step 5: Prepare the Sweet Hot Garlic Sauce

  1. In a small saucepan, combine the remaining marinade with additional soy sauce, sugar, and minced garlic.
  2. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
  3. Remove the sauce from the heat and set it aside.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

  1. Transfer the grilled chicken wings to a serving platter.
  2. Drizzle the sweet hot garlic sauce over the wings, or serve it on the side for dipping.
  3. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and sliced chili peppers, if desired.
  4. Serve the Thai Grilled Chicken Wings hot, and watch them disappear in no time!

Cook’s Notes:

  • Cilantro Roots: If you can’t find fresh cilantro roots, you can use the roots and stems instead. They add a unique flavor to the marinade and sauce.
  • Grilling Tips: For perfectly grilled chicken wings, ensure that your grill is preheated to the correct temperature and that the chicken is cooked through but not overcooked. Keep an eye on the wings to prevent burning, and flip them occasionally for even cooking.

Variations:

  • Spice Level: Adjust the amount of garlic and chili peppers in the sauce to suit your taste preferences. For a milder sauce, use less garlic and omit the chili peppers; for a spicier kick, increase the amount of garlic and add extra chili peppers.
  • Herb Substitution: If cilantro isn’t your favorite herb, you can substitute it with fresh basil, mint, or parsley for a different flavor profile.

Keto and Low-Carb Version:

For those following a keto or low-carb diet, you can make the following adjustments to the recipe:

  • Sugar Substitute: Replace the sugar in the marinade and sauce with a keto-friendly sweetener such as erythritol or monk fruit sweetener.
  • Soy Sauce Alternative: Use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce to reduce the carb content.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs and legs?

Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breast if you prefer. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, as chicken breast cooks faster than thighs and legs.

How long can I marinate the chicken?

You can marinate the chicken for up to 24 hours for maximum flavor. However, if you’re short on time, even a brief marination will enhance the taste of the chicken.

Can I grill the chicken indoors?

If you don’t have access to an outdoor grill, you can use a stovetop grill pan or an indoor electric grill to cook the chicken.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sweet hot garlic sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to one week. Simply reheat it gently on the stovetop before serving.

These Thai Grilled Chicken Wings with Sweet Hot Garlic Sauce are a flavor-packed delight that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, tailgate party, or weeknight dinner, these wings are sure to impress your family and friends. With their aromatic marinade, succulent chicken, and spicy-sweet sauce, they offer a tantalizing taste of Thai cuisine right in your own backyard. So fire up the grill, grab your ingredients, and get ready to savor every mouthwatering bite!