Oven-Baked Lemon Pepper Chicken Wings Recipe

If you’re searching for a mouthwatering and delicious dish that seamlessly aligns with your healthy eating regimen, consider oven-baked lemon pepper chicken wings.

This recipe combines the zesty freshness of lemon with the bold kick of black pepper to create wings that are bursting with flavor. These wings are not only exceptionally delicious but also a healthier choice compared to regular fried wings. By baking them, you use less oil but still get a nice crispy texture.

Whether you’re hosting a party, enjoying a family dinner, or just want a quick snack these wings will surely become a family favorite. So without wasting any more time, let’s jump right into the recipe.

What Are Lemon Pepper Chicken Wings and Why Are They Special?

Lemon pepper chicken wings are a tasty delight celebrated for their distinctive tangy and peppery flavor profile. These wings are special due to their unique seasoning blend that marries the refreshing zest of lemon with the strong spiciness of freshly cracked black pepper.

This mix not only tastes great but also highlights the natural flavor of the chicken. Unlike regular buffalo wings, lemon pepper wings provide a lighter but just as tasty choice that many people will enjoy.

Baking instead of frying keeps the seasoning’s flavor without adding extra calories which makes it a good choice for people who want to eat healthy without giving up on taste.

Ingredients Needed for Lemon Pepper Chicken Wings

Before you start, make sure you have the following ingredients on hand:

• 2 pounds of chicken wings
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 1 tablespoon of lemon zest
• 3 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice
• 2 teaspoons of black pepper
• 1 teaspoon of salt
• 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon of onion powder
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

These ingredients bring out the natural chicken flavors and add a tasty lemon pepper kick.

Nutritional Information of Lemon Pepper Chicken Wings

Here’s a detailed breakdown of the nutritional information per serving (approximately 3-4 wings):

Equipment Needed

To prepare your lemon pepper chicken wings, gather the following equipment:

• Baking sheet
• Wire rack (optional, but recommended for extra crispy skin)
• Mixing bowl
• Tongs or a spatula
• Oven mitts

Recipe for Lemon Pepper Chicken Wings

Now that I think you have all the necessary ingredients and equipment ready, here’s a step-by-step guide on how to make these amazing lemon pepper chicken wings:

Step 1: Preparing the Chicken Wings

Start by patting the chicken wings dry with paper towels to help them crisp up in the oven. Place the wings in a mixing bowl and drizzle with olive oil, ensuring each piece is evenly coated.

Step 2: Adding the Flavor

Sprinkle the chicken wings with lemon zest, fresh lemon juice, black pepper, salt, garlic powder, and onion powder. Use your hands or a spatula to mix everything well and ensure the wings are fully covered with the seasoning.

Step 3: Baking the Wings

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the seasoned wings on a baking sheet, preferably with a wire rack for better air circulation and crispiness. Bake for about 40-45 minutes, turning the wings halfway through to ensure even cooking.

Step 4: Checking for Doneness

After baking, check if the wings are golden brown and crispy. The internal temperature should be at least 165°F (75°C). If needed, bake for an extra few minutes.

Step 5: Serving the Wings

When the wings are done, use oven mitts to take them out of the oven. Let them sit for a few minutes. If you like, add some fresh parsley on top for extra color and taste. Your lemon pepper chicken wings are ready to eat.

Congratulations 🎊 you’ve made some delicious oven-baked lemon pepper chicken wings! Serve them as a snack, appetizer, or part of your main dish. These wings pair well with various sides like roasted vegetables, sweet potato fries, or a fresh green salad.

If you are a chicken lover or like these types of recipes, then you should try some of our famous recipes like Taco Bell Cantina Chicken and Lemon Pepper Wet Sauce to add more deliciousness to your meal. You can also experiment with different types of sauces or dips to accompany these wings and make them even more amazing.

Oven-Baked Lemon Pepper Chicken Wings Recipe

Usman Malik

Lemon pepper chicken wings are a tasty delight celebrated for their distinctive tangy and peppery flavor profile. These wings are special due to their unique seasoning blend that marries the refreshing zest of lemon with the strong spiciness of freshly cracked black pepper.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 40 minutes mins

Total Time 55 minutes mins

Course Appetizer, Main dish

Cuisine American

Servings 4 servings

Calories 300 kcal

Equipment

• Baking Sheet
• Wire rack (optional)
• Parchment paper
• Meat thermometer

Ingredients

  

• 2 pounds of chicken wings
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 1 tablespoon of lemon zest
• 3 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice
• 2 teaspoons of black pepper
• 1 teaspoon of salt
• 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon of onion powder
• Fresh parsley for garnish optional

Instructions

 

Step 1: Preparing the Chicken Wings

• Start by patting the chicken wings dry with paper towels to help them crisp up in the oven. Place the wings in a mixing bowl and drizzle with olive oil, ensuring each piece is evenly coated.

Step 2: Adding the Flavor

• Sprinkle the chicken wings with lemon zest, fresh lemon juice, black pepper, salt, garlic powder, and onion powder. Use your hands or a spatula to mix everything well and ensure the wings are fully covered with the seasoning.

Step 3: Baking the Wings

• Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the seasoned wings on a baking sheet, preferably with a wire rack for better air circulation and crispiness. Bake for about 40-45 minutes, turning the wings halfway through to ensure even cooking.

Step 4: Checking for Doneness

• After baking, check if the wings are golden brown and crispy. The internal temperature should be at least 165°F (75°C). If needed, bake for an extra few minutes.

Step 5: Serving the Wings

• When the wings are done, use oven mitts to take them out of the oven. Let them sit for a few minutes. If you like, add some fresh parsley on top for extra color and taste. Your lemon pepper chicken wings are ready to eat.

Notes

When making lemon pepper chicken wings, make sure to dry the wings well before adding seasoning to get them crispy. Leave space between them on the baking sheet for even cooking. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they’re cooked safely. You can adjust the seasonings or try different ingredients to fit your taste or diet.

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Creative Ways to Serve Lemon Pepper Chicken Wings

While lemon pepper chicken wings are delicious on their own, here are some inventive serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience:

• Serve with Dips: Pair the pepper wings with a variety of dips, like ranch, blue cheese, or a spicy sriracha mayo, to enhance their flavor and offer guests a choice.
• Make it a Meal: Serve the wings with fluffy rice, a quinoa salad, or creamy mashed potatoes to make a filling main dish.
• Wrap It Up: Use the chicken wings to fill wraps or tacos. Add fresh veggies like lettuce, tomatoes, and avocados, and top with a spoonful of sour cream for a tasty wrap.
• Party Platter: Make a party platter with wings, veggie sticks, cheese cubes, and olives. Great for when you have guests.
• Wing Bar: Create a wing bar with different sauces and spices. Let guests pick and customize their lemon pepper wings with flavors like BBQ, honey mustard, or teriyaki.
• Breakfast Boost: Add a unique twist to breakfast by serving the wings with waffles or pancakes, drizzled with maple syrup or a savory gravy.

Storage Suggestions

To make sure your lemon pepper chicken wings remain flavorful and safe to eat, follow these quality storage tips:

• Refrigeration: Place leftovers in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. Consume within 3-4 days for optimal taste and safety.
• Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the chicken wings in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag or airtight container. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
• Reheating: Warm up cold or frozen wings in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until they are hot and reach a safe inside temperature of 165°F (75°C). Don’t use the microwave to avoid sogginess.
• Avoid Refreezing: Once defrosted, do not refreeze the wings, as this can affect their texture and flavor.

Tips for Making Perfect Lemon Pepper Chicken Wings

If you don’t want to end up with soggy or overcooked wings, here are some tips to help you make the best lemon pepper chicken wings every time:

• Dry the Wings: Before adding seasoning, use paper towels to dry the wings. This removes extra moisture and helps them get crispy in the oven.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Baking Sheet: Give each wing enough room on the baking sheet to cook evenly. If they’re too close together, they might not cook well and could end up soggy.
• Use a Wire Rack: Placing a wire rack on the baking sheet allows for better air circulation and results in crispier wings.
• Check Internal Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. The internal temperature should be at least 165°F (75°C).
• Let Them Rest: Let the wings sit for a few minutes before serving. This will help them retain their crispy texture.

Conclusion

In conclusion, lemon pepper chicken wings are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in many ways. With simple ingredients and an easy cooking process, you can create wings that are crispy on the outside and bursting with flavor inside.

Whether you’re making them for a party, a family dinner, or just a snack, these wings are sure to impress. By following the tips for preparation and storage, you can ensure they taste great every time. So, gather your favorite sides and sauces and enjoy your homemade lemon pepper chicken wings!

FAQ

Can I make these wings without a wire rack?

Yes, you can still make delicious lemon pepper chicken wings without a wire rack. Simply place the wings directly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. However, to ensure crispiness, make sure to turn the wings halfway through the baking process to promote even browning.

Can I use chicken drumettes instead of whole wings?

Yes, chicken drumettes can be used instead of whole wings. They are meatier and still offer a delicious flavor when prepared with the same lemon pepper recipe. Adjust the cooking time slightly as drumettes might cook faster or slower depending on their size.

Are there any vegan alternatives for this recipe?

Yes, you can use cauliflower florets or tofu as a vegan alternative to chicken. Season them similarly with lemon pepper and bake until crispy for a tasty, plant-based version of this recipe.

Can I add more spices to the recipe?

Yes, you can customize the recipe by adding more spices like garlic powder, paprika, or cayenne pepper to enhance the flavor of your lemon pepper chicken wings, making them uniquely delicious.