Name: Pesto Chicken Wings That Will Transform Game Nights!
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Ingredients: 2 pounds Chicken Wings (A mix of drumettes and flats); 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt (Enhances natural flavors); 1 teaspoon Black Pepper (Freshly cracked for seasoning); 1 cup Pesto Sauce (Homemade or store-bought)

The sizzle from the grill fills the air as I prepare to indulge in a culinary favorite that’s both satisfying and guilt-free: Pesto Chicken Wings. These delightful morsels are not just for game day; they’re a fantastic addition to any gathering, bringing juicy flavor and a crispy texture that’s hard to resist. Made with the vibrant goodness of homemade pesto, this low-carb offering caters to keto and gluten-free appetites, making it perfect for health-conscious food lovers. Best of all, whipping them up is a breeze—ideal for busy weeknights or spontaneous get-togethers. Curious to see how to bring these succulent wings to life? Let’s dive in!

Why Choose Pesto Chicken Wings?

Flavor Explosion: Each wing is infused with the freshness of homemade pesto, making for a mouthwatering taste that beats takeout any day.

Low Carb Goodness: Perfect for anyone following keto or gluten-free diets, these wings allow you to indulge without guilt.

Quick Preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can have these wings ready in under 30 minutes, making them perfect for last-minute gatherings.

Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s game night or a casual dinner, these wings are sure to impress and satisfy guests of all ages.

Versatile Sauces: Feel free to swap out the pesto for other flavorful options like BBQ or chimichurri—the possibilities are endless!

Add them to your next get-together alongside fresh veggie sticks or a light salad, and enjoy a scrumptious dish that’s bound to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire!

Pesto Chicken Wings Ingredients

These delightful wings are bringing flavor to your table!

For the Wings

Chicken Wings – Choose a mix of drumettes and flats for a nice variety in texture and presentation.
Kosher Salt – Enhances all the natural flavors of the chicken, ensuring each bite is savory.
Black Pepper – A dash adds a subtle warmth and complements the pesto beautifully.

For the Pesto Sauce

Pesto Sauce – A vibrant blend of basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan, and olive oil, bringing a fresh taste to your wings; feel free to substitute with chimichurri sauce for a twist.

Create mouthwatering Pesto Chicken Wings that will be the star of your next gathering!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pesto Chicken Wings

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Wings
Begin by separating the chicken wings into drumettes and flats, rinsing them under cold water to ensure cleanliness. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve crispiness. Season generously with kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper, allowing the flavors to penetrate the meat while you prepare to grill.

Step 2: Preheat the Grill
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 375°F to 400°F (190°C to 200°C). This ensures that the Pesto Chicken Wings will cook evenly and develop that desired char. Before placing the wings on the grill, oil the grates lightly with a paper towel dipped in vegetable oil or spray oil to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Grill the Wings
Place the seasoned chicken wings on the preheated grill, ensuring they’re not overcrowded. Grill them for approximately 10 to 12 minutes, turning every 3 minutes to achieve an even cook. Look for a golden-brown color and a crisp skin, using an instant-read thermometer to ensure they reach the safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Step 4: Toss in Pesto Sauce
Once the wings are grilled to perfection, remove them from the grill and transfer them to a mixing bowl. While the wings are still hot, generously toss them with the vibrant homemade pesto sauce, allowing it to cling and coat each wing thoroughly. This step infuses the wings with that delightful fresh flavor we’re aiming for.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Plate your Pesto Chicken Wings, either tossing them all together or arranging them neatly for presentation. Consider serving them with extra pesto on the side as a dipping sauce. They pair wonderfully with fresh veggie sticks or a light salad, making them a fantastic appetizer or main dish for your next get-together.

Storage Tips for Pesto Chicken Wings

Fridge: Store cooked Pesto Chicken Wings in an airtight container for up to 1 week. This keeps them fresh while retaining their savory flavor.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the wings in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They can stay frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating: Reheat wings in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through, to maintain their crispy texture.

Room Temperature: If serving at a gathering, keep the wings out for no more than 2 hours to ensure they remain safe and delicious.

Expert Tips for Pesto Chicken Wings

Crispy Skin Secret: Use paper towels to thoroughly dry the wings before seasoning. This helps achieve that delightful crispy exterior when grilling.
Oil the Grill: Lightly oil your grill grates before cooking to prevent the Pesto Chicken Wings from sticking, ensuring a smooth release once grilled.
Flavor Variations: For a twist, try adding spices like smoked paprika or garlic powder to the seasoning mix, enhancing the wings with additional depth.
Watch the Temperature: Use an instant-read thermometer to check for doneness; aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for perfectly cooked wings.
Toss Warm Wings: Toss the grilled wings in pesto sauce while they are still hot. This allows the sauce to cling better and penetrate the wings, maximizing flavor.

What to Serve With Pesto Chicken Wings

Indulging in these savory delights invites a symphony of flavors to your table, making the perfect accompaniments essential.

Fresh Veggie Sticks: Crisp and colorful, a platter of carrots, celery, and bell peppers adds crunch and a refreshing contrast to the rich wings.
Zesty Cucumber Salad: This light, tangy salad complements the flavorful wings beautifully, offering a cool, refreshing bite after each savory morsel.
Garlic Bread: The warm, buttery crunch of garlic bread pairs perfectly with the wings, creating a comforting and indulgent spread that everyone loves.
Creamy Coleslaw: A spoonful of coleslaw adds a delightful crunch and a tangy contrast, lifting the heaviness of the wings while enhancing the meal’s texture.
Simple Green Salad: A mixed greens salad dressed in balsamic vinaigrette provides a light, refreshing balance to the bold flavors of the wings.
Craft Beer: A cold, crisp beer, like a pale ale or lager, serves as the ideal sip beside these flavorful wings, balancing the richness of the pesto.
Lemonade: The sweet and tart contrast of homemade lemonade quenches your thirst and brightens the flavors of the dish, creating a delightful pairing.

These choices not only elevate your Pesto Chicken Wings but also create a memorable dining experience that’s perfect for any occasion!

Pesto Chicken Wings Variations & Substitutions

Embrace your inner chef! Here are some delightful ways to customize your Pesto Chicken Wings for a truly unique experience.

Dairy-Free: Use a vegan pesto made with nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a creamy texture without the dairy.
Spicy Kick: Mix in some cayenne pepper or chipotle powder with the seasoning for an extra layer of heat that’ll awaken your taste buds. A little goes a long way!
Air Fryer Option: If you’re short on time, consider cooking the wings in an air fryer. Cook them at 400°F (200°C) for about 25 minutes for a crispy result without the grill.
Herbal Infusion: Swap out basil for arugula or spinach in your pesto for a fresh twist that adds a peppery flavor, making each bite unique and exciting.
Crispy Baked Wings: If you prefer baking, coat your wings lightly in olive oil and baking powder before putting them in the oven at 425°F (220°C) for about 30 minutes. This yields a deliciously crispy exterior!
Flavorful Marinade: Let the wings soak in some lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil for at least an hour before grilling. This will amplify the flavors and yield tender, juicy meat.
Herbed Crust: Add crushed garlic and your choice of dried herbs—like thyme or rosemary—on the wings before grilling for aromatic, flavorful bites.
Tangy BBQ Twist: Combine pesto with a splash of BBQ sauce for a sweet, tangy flavor infusion that’ll please everyone at your gathering.

These variations will keep your wings exciting and delicious, transforming any game night or family dinner into a memorable feast. Don’t forget to check out our other recipes like Baked Pesto Chicken or Pesto Chicken Flatbread for even more inspiration!

Make Ahead Options

These Pesto Chicken Wings are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the chicken wings and season them up to 24 hours in advance; simply pat them dry, season with kosher salt and black pepper, and refrigerate in an airtight container. The pesto sauce can also be made up to 3 days ahead, allowing you to blend fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan, and olive oil beforehand. When you’re ready to grill, take the wings out of the fridge, preheat your grill, and cook them until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Toss them with the pesto sauce immediately after grilling to ensure they retain that vibrant flavor. Enjoy your delicious wings with minimal effort!

Pesto Chicken Wings Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best chicken wings?
When selecting chicken wings, look for pieces that are plump and firm without any discoloration or dark spots. Both drumettes and flats offer great texture, so a mix will keep things interesting. If possible, opt for fresh wings over frozen for the best flavor, but if frozen is your only choice, be sure they are thawed properly before cooking.

What is the best way to store leftover wings?
Store cooked Pesto Chicken Wings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. To keep them as fresh as possible, allow them to cool before placing them in the container. If you enjoy meal prep, you can also freeze them for longer storage; just be sure to wrap them well to prevent freezer burn!

Can I freeze Pesto Chicken Wings?
Absolutely! To freeze your Pesto Chicken Wings, lay them out in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze them individually first. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag and remove as much air as possible. They can stay frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat them in the oven for best results.

I need to make these wings suitable for a gluten-free diet; is that possible?
Yes, Pesto Chicken Wings are naturally gluten-free! Just ensure that any sauces, like pesto or chimichurri, you use are labeled gluten-free as some store-bought versions may contain gluten. Homemade sauces can be easily made gluten-free too, using fresh, high-quality ingredients. Enjoy without worry!

What can I do if my wings aren’t crispy enough?
If you find your wings come out less crispy than you’d like, here are tips to remedy that: Start by patting the wings dry with paper towels to remove moisture. Before grilling, toss them in a small amount of baking powder mixed with salt (about 1 teaspoon per pound of wings); this helps create that crispy texture. Ensure your grill is preheated to medium-high heat for a good char!