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Crispy, flavorful, and packed with zesty tang, these Crispy Baked Lemon Pepper Chicken Wings are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Elevate your game-day spread or spice up a regular weeknight dinner with this easy and delicious recipe.
Our brand’s commitment to quality shines through with the use of fresh, juicy chicken wings and a homemade lemon pepper seasoning that adds the perfect balance of citrusy brightness and aromatic warmth. Every bite is bursting with succulent chicken meat enrobed in a tantalizing blend of tangy lemon zest and aromatic cracked black pepper.
Why choose baked over fried chicken wings?
When it comes to chicken wings, the debate between baked and fried is a common one. While fried wings may offer a crispy exterior, they often come with a hefty dose of unhealthy fats. Baked wings, on the other hand, provide a healthier alternative without sacrificing taste or texture. By using our unique baking method, we can achieve the same level of crispiness as fried wings, all while keeping the calorie count lower and the nutritional value higher. Plus, baking eliminates the need for messy frying, making cleanup a breeze.
Ingredients for crispy baked lemon pepper chicken wings
To make these Crispy Baked Lemon Pepper Chicken Wings, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 pounds of chicken wings
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 tablespoon of lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon of cracked black pepper
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon of onion powder
Preparing the chicken wings for baking
Before we get started with the seasoning and baking process, it’s essential to ensure that the chicken wings are properly prepared. Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). Then, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
Next, take the chicken wings and pat them dry with a paper towel. This step is crucial as it helps the seasoning adhere to the wings and promotes a crispy texture. Once the wings are dry, place them on the prepared baking sheet, making sure to leave space between each wing for even cooking.
Making the lemon pepper seasoning
The secret to these Crispy Baked Lemon Pepper Chicken Wings lies in the homemade lemon pepper seasoning. By creating our own blend, we can control the flavor profile and ensure the perfect balance of tangy citrus and robust pepper. To make the seasoning, follow these simple steps:
- In a small bowl, combine the lemon zest, cracked black pepper, salt, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Adjust the seasoning to taste, adding more lemon zest or black pepper if desired.
Coating the chicken wings with the seasoning
Now that our chicken wings are prepped and the seasoning is ready, it’s time to coat the wings with the delicious lemon pepper blend. Drizzle the olive oil over the wings, ensuring that each wing is evenly coated. Then, sprinkle the lemon pepper seasoning mixture generously over the wings, making sure to cover both sides.
Using your hands or tongs, gently toss the wings to ensure that the seasoning is evenly distributed. This step is crucial as it guarantees that every bite is bursting with flavor. Once the wings are well-coated, let them sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Baking the chicken wings to perfection
With the wings coated and the flavors melding, it’s time to bake them to crispy perfection. Place the baking sheet with the wings in the preheated oven and let them cook for approximately 40-45 minutes, or until the wings are golden brown and crispy.
Halfway through the cooking time, flip the wings over to ensure even browning. This step is essential for achieving that coveted crunchy exterior. Keep a close eye on the wings during the last few minutes of cooking to prevent them from burning.
Once the wings are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving.
Serving and enjoying the crispy baked lemon pepper chicken wings
Now that your Crispy Baked Lemon Pepper Chicken Wings are cooked to perfection, it’s time to serve them up and enjoy! Transfer the wings to a serving platter and garnish with a sprinkle of fresh lemon zest and chopped parsley for an extra burst of freshness.
These wings are fantastic on their own, but if you’re looking to take them to the next level, serve them with a side of tangy ranch or blue cheese dipping sauce. The creamy and cool dip complements the zesty lemon pepper perfectly, creating a flavor combination that will have your taste buds dancing.
Whether you’re hosting a game-day gathering or simply enjoying a meal with loved ones, these Crispy Baked Lemon Pepper Chicken Wings are sure to be a hit. The crispy exterior, juicy meat, and bold flavors will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Variations and additional tips for the recipe
While this recipe is already a winner, there are plenty of ways to customize it to suit your taste preferences. Here are a few variations and additional tips to consider:
- For an extra kick of heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the lemon pepper seasoning.
- If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of black pepper in the seasoning mixture.
- Experiment with different citrus flavors by substituting lime or orange zest for the lemon zest.
- If you’re short on time, marinate the wings in the lemon pepper seasoning for a few hours before baking. This step will intensify the flavors and shorten the baking time.
- For a complete meal, serve the Crispy Baked Lemon Pepper Chicken Wings with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad.
Conclusion
In conclusion, these Crispy Baked Lemon Pepper Chicken Wings are a game-changer when it comes to flavor and texture. By opting for a healthier baking method and creating our own homemade lemon pepper seasoning, we can enjoy guilt-free indulgence without compromising on taste.
Whether you’re entertaining guests or treating yourself to a delicious meal, these wings are sure to impress. The crispy exterior, juicy meat, and zesty tang will have you reaching for seconds and sharing the recipe with everyone you know.
So, grab a plateful of these mouthwatering lemon pepper chicken wings, sit back, and get ready for a flavor explosion that will leave you craving more. Your taste buds will thank you, and your guests will be begging for the recipe. Enjoy!
