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Wing Ideas For Special Events

If you're planning any type of casual special event, you'll need to create a menu filled with easy-to-eat finger foods, such as wings. Appetizers and other snack-type foods will allow guests to easily eat as they mix and mingle throughout the day or night. 

Wings make ideal menu additions for a wide range of occasions, such as both kids' and adults' birthday parties, corporate and family holiday get-togethers, reunions, anniversary and graduation celebrations, bridal and baby showers, and wedding rehearsal dinners and receptions. If the event is on the fancier end but you still want to serve small plates rather than large meals, get creative with gourmet wing recipes. 

Since they are a popular menu selection at a variety of restaurants and bars, wings will appeal to many people on your guest list, from kids to adults. Be sure to provide a mix of mild, medium, and hot sauces to appeal to everyone's tastes, and serve up a few vegan and vegetarian options as well. You can even find meat-free, soy-based "wings" to keep guests with plant-based diets satisfied and happy. 

For smaller events, such as backyard barbecues, you may opt to make the wings yourself. If you're coordinating a larger event, however, consider having them brought in by either a catering company or a local restaurant.

Here are some wing ideas for your next special event:

1. Grilled Wings 

While many wings are either baked or fried, grilling the meat will add even more flavor. Grilled wings are especially appropriate for outdoor events, such as wedding receptions held in country barns or birthday parties that take place at a park.

Prior to the event, you can marinate the wings in any type of sauce, such as chimichurri, that you'd like, to make them even more flavorful. You can also slather barbecue sauce on the wings during the grilling process. Have several different types of barbecue sauces on hand, such as sweet honey and spicy vinegar-based ones, so that guests can choose their favorites. 

2. Wing Buffet

Another fun and convenient way of serving wings at a party is on a buffet-style table. Set out trays filled with different types of wings, such as grilled, barbecue sauce-slathered, and deep-fried, along with a variety of sauces for dipping. Some ideas include honey mustard, ranch or blue cheese dressings, and hot sauce. 

To round out the meal, include picnic-inspired side dishes, including coleslaw, potato salad, and trays of fresh fruit.