Description
Oven-Baked Chicken Wings
Bright and zesty, these lemon pepper wings are crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. A refreshing twist on classic wings!
Ingredients:
1 lb chicken wings
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp lemon zest
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/4 tsp paprika
Salt to taste
Instructions:
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
Pat wings dry and coat with olive oil.
Mix lemon zest, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and salt. Rub onto wings.
Bake for 35-40 minutes, flipping halfway.
Serve with lemon wedges for extra zest!
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed steps for perfect wings every time. First, ensure your chicken wings are fully thawed and patted completely dry with paper towels; this is crucial for crispiness. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place a wire rack on a baking sheet. Lightly grease the rack. In a large bowl, toss the dry wings with 1 tablespoon of olive oil until evenly coated. In a separate small bowl, combine the lemon zest, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and salt. Sprinkle this mixture over the wings and toss vigorously, or massage the seasoning directly onto each wing for maximum coverage. Arrange the wings in a single layer on the wire rack, ensuring they are not touching. Bake on the middle rack for 20 minutes, then carefully flip each wing using tongs. Bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the skin is deeply golden brown and crispy, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Serving Suggestions
These versatile wings pair wonderfully with a variety of dips and sides. For dipping, offer a cool, creamy blue cheese or ranch dressing to balance the zest. A side of crisp celery and carrot sticks adds a refreshing crunch. To make it a full meal, serve alongside a simple garden salad, garlic parmesan fries, or creamy coleslaw. Don’t forget the essential lemon wedges for an extra burst of fresh citrus juice right before eating.
How-to Summary
To summarize: Dry the wings thoroughly, toss with oil and a homemade lemon-pepper spice rub, then bake at 400°F on a wire rack for 35-40 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy and cooked through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken drumettes or flats instead of whole wings?
Absolutely. This recipe works perfectly with pre-separated drumettes and wingettes. Just ensure the total weight is about 1 pound and keep an eye on cooking time as smaller pieces may cook slightly faster.
How can I make the skin even crispier?
For extra crispiness, after patting the wings dry, you can dust them lightly with baking powder (about 1 tsp) along with the oil and spices. This helps draw moisture to the surface for a crackling skin.
Can I make these ahead of time?
You can prepare the spice rub and coat the wings in oil and seasoning up to a day in advance. Store them covered in the refrigerator, then bake directly from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What’s the best way to store and reheat leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in an air fryer or a 375°F oven for 5-10 minutes to restore crispiness; microwaving will make them soggy.
Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh zest?
It’s not recommended. The zest contains potent citrus oils that provide the true “lemon” flavor without adding liquid, which would steam the wings. Juice is best reserved for serving wedges.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping the drying step: Wet wings steam instead of roast, leading to soggy skin.
- Crowding the pan: Placing wings too close together causes them to steam. Use a wire rack for optimal air circulation.
- Not flipping halfway: This ensures even browning and crispiness on all sides.
- Using old lemon zest: Freshly zested lemon provides the brightest flavor. Pre-packaged zest can taste dull.
Conclusion
These oven-baked lemon pepper wings prove you don’t need a deep fryer to achieve a crispy, flavor-packed result. With a simple spice blend and proper baking technique, you can create a crowd-pleasing appetizer or main course that’s both refreshing and satisfying. The bright citrus and bold pepper create a classic flavor profile that is endlessly enjoyable. Give this method a try for your next game day or casual dinner—it’s a guaranteed hit.