Sour Cherry BBQ Wings

Sweet and spicy, crispy and tender, this wings recipe from our favorite Top Chef judge Tom Colicchio features a unique combination of flavors that make for a mouthwatering plate. With sour cherry BBQ sauce, serrano chili, and lime zest, this is a recipe you’ll turn to again and again – whether it’s game day, a Top Chef marathon with your faves, or just a Tuesday night. Below you’ll find options to make in the oven or on the grill!

In The Oven

1. Preheat the oven to 450F and line 2 large baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, toss the chicken wings in 2 tablespoons oil and season with salt and pepper.
3. Transfer the wings to the baking sheets skin side up and bake for 45 minutes, until cooked through and crisp.
4. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add thechopped onion and cook until softened and lightly browned, about 5 minutes. Add half of the minced serrano pepper and smashed garlic and cook for 1 minute, until softened and garlic is fragrant.
5. In a small sauce pan over medium heat combine cherries, vinegar, and sugar. Bring to a boil and simmer for 10-15 minutes, until the cherries are plump.
6. Remove the cherries from the liquid and add to the sauté pan with onions.
7. Add the onion and cherries mixture to a blender along with the lime juice, and ketchup. and blend until smooth.
8. Return the cherry BBQ sauce back to the pan and stir in the remaining serrano pepper. Bring it to a boil over medium-high heat and season with salt and pepper to taste. transfer the BBQ sauce to a bowl.
9. Remove the wings from the oven when finished baking and add them to a large bowl. Toss with one third of the cherry BBQ sauce.
10. Return the tossed wings back to the baking sheet and bake for an additional 5 minutes until sticky and caramelized.
11. Transfer the glazed wings to a serving dish, sprinkle with lime zest, and serve with the remaining glaze on the side.

On The Grill

1. Turn your grill to low heat to clean the grates with a grill brush. Then, use a high heat cooking oil, such a vegetable or avocado to oil the grates to avoid the chicken wings from sticking. 
2. Turn the grill up to medium heat, place the chicken wings on the grill rack and cover with the lid. Grill for 20-25 minutes, using tongs to turn the wings occasionally, until they begin to turn golden brown. 
3. Once the wings have reached the internal temperature of 165F, remove them from the grill. Place the chicken wings in a large bowl, add the sauce and toss to coat. 

*If you’re looking for a sauce to cool you down, mix some cherry glaze with mayo for a delicious dipping sauce!