These Lemon Pepper Chicken Wings are a perfect balance of zesty lemon and spicy black pepper, baked to golden perfection for a healthier alternative to fried wings. With a crisp texture and a burst of fresh flavors, they’re ideal for dinner or snacking without compromising on health or taste.
Recipe Tips and Tricks:
- Pat the wings dry: This ensures they crisp up beautifully in the oven. Moisture on the surface can prevent browning.
- Marinate for extra flavor: Let the wings sit in the seasoning for at least 30 minutes to infuse the lemony zest.
- Use fresh lemon juice: Bottled juice lacks the vibrant flavor of freshly squeezed lemons.
- Broil for extra crispiness: After baking, broil for 2–3 minutes to get that perfect golden finish.
- Serve immediately: These wings are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven for maximum crispiness and flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
You’ll fall in love with these Lemon Pepper Chicken Wings because they’re:
- Healthy: Baked, not fried, for a guilt-free indulgence.
- Flavorful: The combination of lemon zest and freshly cracked black pepper creates a vibrant, tangy, and spicy profile.
- Easy to make: A simple recipe that’s perfect for beginners or busy weeknights.
- Customizable: Easily adaptable with different spices and sauces to suit your preferences.
- Perfect for gatherings: A crowd-pleaser that’s ideal for dinner parties, game nights, or casual dinners.
Yield: Serves 4
Lemon Pepper Chicken Wings
Zesty, spicy, and baked to perfection, these Lemon Pepper Chicken Wings are a healthier and delicious dinner or snack option.
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
40 minutes
Additional Time
30 minutes
Total Time
1 hour 25 minutes
Ingredients
- 2 lbs chicken wings
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Zest of 2 lemons
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tbsp coarse black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp salt
Instructions
- Prepare the Wings: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup. Pat the chicken wings dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This step ensures they crisp up well during baking.
- Make the Seasoning Mix: In a large mixing bowl, combine the lemon zest, lemon juice, black pepper, garlic powder, and salt. Drizzle in the olive oil and whisk until the mixture forms a smooth, flavorful marinade.
- Marinate the Wings: Add the chicken wings to the bowl and toss until they are evenly coated with the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the wings marinate for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
- Bake the Wings: Arrange the marinated wings in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 35–40 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even cooking. The wings should be golden brown and slightly crispy.
- Broil for Extra Crispiness: For an extra-crispy finish, broil the wings on high for 2–3 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.
- Serve: Transfer the wings to a serving platter, garnish with additional lemon zest or freshly cracked black pepper if desired, and serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce or a side of fresh veggies.
Notes
- For a keto-friendly version, ensure no sugar is added to your seasoning.
- These wings pair wonderfully with a side of celery sticks and a yogurt-based dipping sauce.
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 823Total Fat 62gSaturated Fat 21gTrans Fat 1gUnsaturated Fat 37gCholesterol 186mgSodium 1474mgCarbohydrates 28gFiber 3gSugar 2gProtein 39g
The recipes and nutritional information on Yum Tonight are for informational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized dietary advice.
Ingredient Notes:
- Chicken Wings: Use fresh, whole chicken wings or pre-cut wingettes and drumettes. Organic or free-range wings are a bonus for better flavor.
- Lemon Zest and Juice: Lemon zest adds intense citrus flavor, while fresh lemon juice brings brightness and tang. Avoid bottled juice for the best results.
- Black Pepper: Coarsely ground black pepper gives a bold kick. You can adjust the quantity based on your spice tolerance.
- Olive Oil: Helps coat the wings for even baking and prevents them from drying out.
- Garlic Powder: Enhances the overall flavor profile with a subtle savory depth.
- Salt: Brings out the natural flavors of the wings and seasoning.
Variations and Substitutions:
- Spicy Twist: Add cayenne pepper or red chili flakes to the seasoning for a spicier version.
- Herby Flavor: Include dried herbs like thyme or oregano for a Mediterranean twist.
- Vegan Option: Replace chicken wings with cauliflower florets and follow the same seasoning process.
- Air Fryer Version: Cook the wings in an air fryer at 400°F for 20 minutes, flipping halfway for even crisping.
- Saucy Wings: Toss baked wings in a mix of melted butter and extra lemon juice for a glossy finish.
Storage Options:
- Refrigeration: Store leftover wings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to maintain crispiness.
- Freezing: Freeze the wings in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
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