Craving a delicious and easy dinner that's also healthy? Look no further! These Lemon Pepper Chicken Wings are the perfect solution for a quick weeknight meal or a satisfying game-day snack. Forget greasy takeout – this homemade recipe delivers crispy, flavorful wings bursting with bright lemon and peppery goodness. It's a simple recipe perfect for beginners, yet satisfying enough for seasoned cooks. Get ready to elevate your wing game!
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs chicken wings, separated into drumettes and flats
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp lemon zest
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp paprika
- 2 tbsp garlic powder
- 2 tbsp onion powder
- 1 tbsp lemon pepper seasoning
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp salt
Instructions:
Get started:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. This is a crucial step for achieving perfectly crispy wings.
Prepare the wings:
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Pat the chicken wings dry with paper towels. This is key for achieving extra crispy skin. Dry wings render better in the oven.
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In a large bowl, combine olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, lemon pepper seasoning, black pepper, and salt. Mix well to create a flavorful coating.
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Add the chicken wings to the bowl and toss until they are evenly coated with the mixture. Make sure every wing is generously seasoned.
Bake to perfection:
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Arrange the chicken wings in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure even cooking and crispy skin.
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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).
Serve and enjoy:
- Once cooked, remove the wings from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. Serve them hot with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ranch dressing or blue cheese dressing.
Tips for Extra Crispy Wings:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Overcrowding leads to steaming instead of crisping. Use two baking sheets if necessary.
- Dry the wings thoroughly: Moisture is the enemy of crispy skin. Pat those wings dry!
- High heat is your friend: Baking at a higher temperature promotes crispier wings.
- A little extra time: If you prefer extra crispy wings, broil them for the last 2-3 minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.
Variations:
- Spicy Wings: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the seasoning mix for a fiery kick.
- Honey Lemon Pepper Wings: Drizzle with honey during the last 5 minutes of baking for a sweet and savory twist.
- BBQ Lemon Pepper Wings: Toss the cooked wings in your favorite BBQ sauce for a smoky flavor combination.
Nutritional Information (per wing, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 100-120
- Protein: Approximately 8-10g
- Fat: Approximately 7-9g
This Lemon Pepper Chicken Wings recipe is a delicious and easy way to enjoy a healthy and flavorful meal. Perfect for a quick dinner, a game-day snack, or any occasion where you want a crowd-pleasing dish. Enjoy!