Tired of takeout? Craving delicious, crispy wings without the hefty price tag or questionable ingredients? Then look no further! This easy lemon and pepper wings recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, a game-day gathering, or simply satisfying that craving for something crispy and flavorful. These homemade wings are surprisingly simple to make, and the zesty lemon and peppery kick will leave you wanting more. Get ready to experience the best wings you've ever tasted – all made from the comfort of your own kitchen!
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs chicken wings, separated into drumettes and flats
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 2 teaspoons black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
Instructions:
Getting Started: Preparing the Wings
- Pat the wings dry: This crucial step ensures extra crispy skin. Use paper towels to thoroughly dry the chicken wings. Excess moisture will prevent browning and crispiness.
- Preheat your oven: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Making the Flavorful Coating
- Combine the dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper (if using).
- Add the wet ingredients: Add the olive oil, lemon zest, and lemon juice to the dry ingredients. Mix well to create a flavorful paste.
Coating and Baking the Wings
- Coat the wings: Add the chicken wings to the bowl and toss gently to ensure they are evenly coated with the lemon pepper mixture.
- Arrange on baking sheet: Arrange the wings in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding, which can lead to steaming instead of crisping.
- Bake: Bake for 40-45 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the wings are golden brown and cooked through. Internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
Serving Suggestions
Serve these delicious lemon pepper wings hot, straight from the oven! They’re fantastic on their own, but you can also serve them with your favorite dipping sauces, such as ranch dressing, blue cheese dressing, or a spicy mayo.
Tips for Extra Crispy Wings:
- Don't overcrowd the baking sheet: Ensure the wings have enough space to crisp up evenly. Use two baking sheets if necessary.
- Broil for the last few minutes (optional): For extra crispy skin, broil the wings for the last 2-3 minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.
- Double the recipe: This recipe is easily doubled or tripled for larger gatherings.
Variations:
- Add herbs: Experiment with fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for an extra layer of flavor.
- Spice it up: Increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add a pinch of chili powder for a spicier kick.
- Use different citrus: Substitute lime zest and juice for a different flavor profile.
Nutritional Information (per wing, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 100-120
- Protein: Approximately 8-10g
- Fat: Approximately 7-9g
This lemon and pepper wings recipe is a fantastic example of easy recipes and healthy meals that don't compromise on taste. It’s a quick dinner idea perfect for busy weeknights, and a delicious dish to impress your friends and family. Enjoy the homemade cooking experience and the delightful flavors!