Try this zesty kick, our Jerk Chicken Wings recipe! This easy and delicious recipe combines pineapple juice and traditional jerk spices for a delectable and spicy tropical flavor.
WHAT YOU’LL LOVE
- Habanero-pineapple brine: An equal-parts mix of Sweetwater Spice Smoked Habanero BBQ Bath concentrate, pineapple juice, and water seasons the wings and adds a sweet, tangy base over at least 3 hours.
- Jerk and Yardbird seasoning: Plowboys The Jerk, a Caribbean-style blend, and Plowboys Yardbird Rub coat the dried wings for a deep, spicy crust.
- Direct char, indirect finish: The wings get color over direct charcoal heat, then move to indirect heat until they reach 165°F.
- Lime and honey toss: Lime juice and wildflower honey drizzled over the hot wings in a bowl add a bright, sticky glaze.
Quick & Easy Jerk Chicken Wings
Tom Jackson
Rated 5.0 stars by 1 users
Category
Entree
Cuisine
Caribbean
Servings
4
Prep Time
30 minutes
Cook Time
30 minutes
Calories
823
Treat your taste buds to an authentic Caribbean experience with our jerk chicken wings! Each recipe utilizes zesty lime juice, making it easy to achieve the perfect balance of sweet and spicy flavors. Perfect for any occasion, these wings will make a lasting impression
Ingredients
- 15 whole chicken wings
-
1 cup Plowboys The Jerk
- 1 cup Olive or Peanut oil
-
Plowboys Yardbird Rub
- juice of a lime
-
2 tbsp wildflower honey
-
Sweetwater Spice Smoked Habanero BBQ Bath Brine Concentrate
-
Pineapple Juice
Directions
Place the wings in a Briner Bucket or zip top bag with equal parts Sweetwater Spice Smoked Habanero BBQ Bath Brine Concentrate, pineapple juice and water. Let soak for at least 3 hours.
Use a paper towel to absorb excess moisture on the wings. Rub in The Jerk seasoning covering the chicken generously.
- Build a charcoal fire in your charcoal grill. Set up a direct and indirect grilling.
- Remove the wings from the brine/marinade. Pat excess liquid from the surface. Season with Plowboys Yardbird Rub.
- Grill over direct heat to char the outside of the wings, then move to indirect heat and continue cooking until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Place the wings in a bowl. Drizzle with lime juice and wildflower honey. Toss to coat. Serve hot!
Recipe Note
Recipe FAQ
What is jerk seasoning?
Jerk is a Jamaican seasoning blend built around allspice and hot chile, usually with thyme, garlic, and other spices. It gives meat a fragrant, peppery heat.
Why brine the wings in pineapple juice?
The brine adds salt, sweetness, and moisture. Pineapple juice also contains an enzyme that softens meat, so don't soak the wings much longer than the recipe's 3 hours or the texture turns mushy.
Why dry the wings before seasoning?
A dry surface lets the rubs stick and helps the skin crisp over the fire instead of steaming.
What internal temperature should the wings reach?
Chicken is safe at 165°F, which is the target in this recipe. Many cooks take wings higher, up to about 190°F, for crisper skin and more tender connective tissue. Check the thickest part, away from the bone.
Why start over direct heat and finish over indirect heat?
Direct heat chars the skin quickly, but it also causes flare-ups from dripping fat. Moving the wings to the indirect side lets them finish cooking without burning.
Why toss the wings in honey and lime at the end?
Honey burns quickly over a hot fire. Adding it after the wings come off the grill coats them in a glaze without scorching, and the lime brightens the rich, spicy skin.
How can I adjust the heat?
The recipe uses a lot of seasoning. Use less of The Jerk for a milder wing, or add a splash of hot sauce to the honey and lime toss for more heat.
Can I brine the wings overnight?
No. Because of the pineapple juice, stick to about 3 hours in the refrigerator.
How should I store leftovers?
Refrigerate within 2 hours of cooking. The wings keep for about 3-4 days and reheat best on a rack in a 375°F oven until they reach 165°F.
How indoor-friendly is this recipe?
5 out of 5. A 425°F oven roasts the wings on a wire rack set over a sheet pan, and you can finish them under the broiler for color.
Recipe Highlights
- Habanero-pineapple brine: Adds sweet, spicy moisture.
- Jerk and Yardbird seasoning: Build a spicy, fragrant crust.
- Direct and indirect grilling: Chars the skin and cooks the wings through.
- Lime and honey toss: Finishes with a sweet-tart glaze.
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Nutrition
Nutrition
- Nutrition Serving Size
- 4 oz
- per serving
- Calories
- 823
- Carbs
- 10 grams
- Protein
- 71 grams
- Fat
- 56 grams
- Sodium
- 315 milligrams
