Spicy Grilled Chicken Wings with Fries and Greek Salad

Spicy grilled chicken wings with fries and Greek salad is one of those meals that brings real heat, crunch, and freshness all to one plate. The smoky marinade soaks into the wings beautifully, and pairing them with crispy fries and a cool Greek salad makes this a complete dinner that never feels like an afterthought. I started making this combination on Sunday evenings when I wanted something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen.

The first time I pulled a batch of these wings off the grill, the smell alone brought everyone into the kitchen before I even called anyone to the table. The heat from the cayenne builds slowly, the smoked paprika adds that deep, almost barbecue-like color, and the lemon in the marinade keeps the meat from drying out. This spicy grilled chicken wings recipe has become the kind of meal that feels a little special without asking too much of you on a weeknight.

What You Will Need to Make These Flavor-Packed Wings

I always reach for fresh, whole wings here rather than pre-cut pieces when I can find them. Pro tip: pat the wings completely dry before marinating so the coating sticks and the skin crisps up better during cooking.

• 2 pounds chicken wings, patted dry
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for chicken marinade)
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika (Spanish smoked variety gives the best depth and color)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, leave out for a milder version)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Juice of 1 lemon (for chicken marinade)
• 4 large russet potatoes, cut into even-sized fries
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for fries)
• Salt and pepper to taste (for fries)
• 2 cups chopped romaine lettuce
• 2 medium tomatoes, diced
• 1/2 English cucumber, sliced
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (I always buy block feta and crumble it myself for better texture and less moisture)
• 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for salad)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Juice of 1/2 lemon (for salad)
• Salt and pepper to taste (for salad)

How to Cook Spicy Grilled Chicken Wings with Fries and Greek Salad

I recommend reading through all the steps before starting since the wings and fries can cook at the same time with a little planning. These spicy grilled chicken wings come together in a logical sequence that keeps everything hot and fresh at once.

Step 1: In a large bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, chili powder, cayenne pepper, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken wings and toss until fully coated on all sides. Let the wings marinate for at least 30 minutes at room temperature. If marinating longer, cover the bowl and refrigerate for up to 12 hours. Longer marinating time means more flavor penetration. Note: if you refrigerate, pull the wings out 15 minutes before cooking so they are not ice cold going onto the heat.

Step 2: To grill, preheat your grill to medium heat (around 375 to 400 degrees Fahrenheit) and cook the wings for 35 to 40 minutes, turning every 10 minutes until the skin is deep golden and slightly charred in spots. To bake instead, place wings on a wire rack set over a foil-lined baking sheet and bake at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 35 to 40 minutes, flipping halfway through. Either way, the internal temperature should reach 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Do not crowd the wings or they will steam rather than crisp.

Step 3: While the wings are cooking, start the fries. Toss the cut potatoes in 2 tablespoons olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet, making sure no pieces overlap. Bake at 425 degrees Fahrenheit for 25 to 30 minutes, flipping once at the halfway point. They should be golden on the outside and tender inside. If they look pale at 25 minutes, give them 5 more and check again. Crowded fries will turn soggy rather than crispy, so use two pans if needed.

Step 4: Once the wings and fries are in the oven, assemble the Greek salad. In a large bowl, combine the chopped romaine, diced tomatoes, sliced cucumber, red onion, and crumbled feta. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice, sprinkle with dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Toss gently to avoid breaking up the feta too much. Make this right before serving so the lettuce stays crisp and fresh.

Step 5: Arrange the hot spicy grilled chicken wings on a large serving platter. Add the crispy fries on the side and place the Greek salad in a separate bowl at the table. Serve immediately while the wings and fries are still hot.

Best Ways to Serve Spicy Grilled Chicken Wings at Your Table

Spicy grilled chicken wings with fries and Greek salad pair well with cool, creamy, or fresh sides that balance the heat. Here are some of the best sides for spicy grilled chicken wings.

Tzatziki dip: The cool cucumber and yogurt in tzatziki cut right through the spice of the wings. It is a natural Greek-inspired pairing that works both as a dip and a spread.

Warm pita bread: Soft pita is perfect for scooping up the Greek salad or tearing and eating alongside the wings. It adds a satisfying, chewy element without competing with the other flavors.

Grilled corn on the cob: The natural sweetness of corn is a nice contrast to the heat in the wings. It is a fun and colorful addition for warm-weather meals and cookouts.

Iced lemonade or herbal iced tea: A chilled, lightly sweetened drink brings everything into balance and makes the whole meal feel more refreshing.

More Recipes to Round Out Your Table

These spicy grilled chicken wings pair perfectly with other bold, satisfying chicken dinners worth adding to the weekly rotation. For another crispy, flavor-packed option, try the Best Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce or the smoky and crowd-pleasing Cajun Chicken for a similar heat-forward experience. The Bang Bang Chicken Skewers are another excellent grilled option that fits right alongside this meal.

If the Greek salad is a highlight, the fresh Mediterranean flavors also complement dishes like Greek Chicken Tenders, the herb-forward Sheet Pan Lemon Balsamic Chicken, and the bright and satisfying Best Chicken Shawarma with Garlic Sauce for a full Mediterranean-inspired dinner spread.

Smart Storage Tips to Keep Your Wings Fresh

Leftover spicy grilled chicken wings keep well when stored properly. Place cooled wings in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The fries can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days but are best eaten fresh for maximum crispiness. Store the Greek salad separately without dressing and dress it just before serving again.

To reheat the wings, place them on a wire rack over a baking sheet and heat in a preheated oven at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for 10 to 12 minutes. This method brings the skin back to crispy without drying out the meat. Avoid the microwave if you can, since it softens the skin significantly. Reheat fries in an oven or air fryer at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 5 to 8 minutes for best results.

Pro tip: leftover wings shredded off the bone make a great filling for wraps the next day. Pair with any leftover Greek salad ingredients and a drizzle of tzatziki for a fast, satisfying lunch. I recommend making a small extra batch of the marinade to store in the fridge as a quick dipping sauce as well.

Frequently Asked Questions About This Recipe

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