Lemon Pepper Wings Recipe

So, I may have just discovered the holy grail of wing recipes, and I’m already imagining hosting legendary game nights with these crispy, lemon-pepper wonders as the centerpiece. Buckle up, because your taste buds are about to embark on a savory adventure you won’t soon forget!

The zesty tang and peppery punch of my Lemon Pepper Wings make me wonder why I don’t eat them more often. 2 pounds of chicken wings are flavored with lemon zest and lots of fresh, coarse black pepper.

Inside the wings, underneath the skin, and on the outside as well, they are packed just bursting with flavor. The obnoxious amounts of garlic and onion powder paired with the butter and the blast of lemon juice at the end makes this dish downright sinister.

Lemon Pepper Wings Recipe Ingredients

• Chicken wings: High in protein, they create a crispy, savory base.
• Lemon zest: Adds a zesty, citrus aroma and a burst of freshness.
• Freshly ground black pepper: Provides heat and earthy flavor complexity.
• Salt: Enhances flavors, balancing the citrus and spiciness.
• Garlic powder: Imparts mild, savory depth to the wings.
• Lemon juice: Adds tanginess, harmonizes with zest and butter.
• Unsalted butter: Richness that coats and elevates each bite.

Lemon Pepper Wings Recipe Ingredient Quantities

• 2 pounds chicken wings
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• 1 1/2 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)

How to Make this Lemon Pepper Wings Recipe

1. Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) to preheat, and get ready to place your first-layer ligne of baking parchment or aluminum foil flat on your baking sheet. You’re making a pizza, not a calzone, so put the wire rack next.

2. In a big bowl, mix the chicken wings with vegetable oil, making sure all the wings are really coated.

3. In a small bowl, combine the lemon zest, black pepper, salt, garlic powder, and onion powder.

4. The spice mixture is to be sprinkled over the chicken wings. The wings are to be tossed to ensure each one is evenly coated.

5. Place the wings on the wire rack in a single layer. Put them in the preheated oven and set the timer for 45 to 50 minutes. Your target is crispy, fully cooked wings. For best results, use a kitchen thermometer to check the internal temperature.

6. Melt the unsalted butter in a small saucepan over low heat. This is done while the wings are baking.

7. Take the butter that has melted off the heat and mix in the lemon juice. Stir until the two are combined.

8. When the wings are done, take them from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes.

9. Throw the wings in the lemon butter amalgam until they are thoroughly enrobed and gleaming.

10. Move the wings to a platter for serving, and if you wish, sprinkle with fresh, chopped parsley for garnish before bringing to the table. The heat of the oven will ensure that the wings remain piping hot until you’re ready to dive into your lemon-pepper-flavored feast.

Lemon Pepper Wings Recipe Equipment Needed

1. Oven
2. Baking sheet
3. Baking parchment or aluminum foil
4. Wire rack
5. Large mixing bowl
6. Small mixing bowl
7. Measuring spoons
8. Small saucepan
9. Kitchen thermometer
10. Spoon or spatula (for mixing)
11. Tongs (for tossing and handling wings)
12. Serving platter

FAQ

• Can I use frozen chicken wings?
  Yes, but make sure to thoroughly defrost them before cooking to ensure even cooking and proper seasoning absorption.
• Can I substitute olive oil for vegetable oil?
  Yes, olive oil works well as a substitute for vegetable oil in this recipe.
• How can I make the wings extra crispy?
  For extra crispy wings, ensure they are completely dry before seasoning and bake them on a wire rack placed over a baking sheet.
• Is freshly ground black pepper necessary?
  Freshly ground black pepper provides better flavor, but pre-ground pepper can be used if necessary.
• How long should I bake the wings?
  Bake the wings in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 40-45 minutes, flipping halfway for even crisping.
• Can I grill the wings instead of baking them?
  Absolutely, grilling can add a delicious smoky flavor. Grill over medium heat for 20-25 minutes, turning occasionally.
• How should I serve these wings?
  Serve them hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired, and a side of celery sticks or your favorite dipping sauce.

Lemon Pepper Wings Recipe Substitutions and Variations

Vegetable oil: Can be replaced by olive oil or canola oil, which impart a different, but not unpleasant, flavor.
Lemon zest: Substitute with lime zest for a similar citrus note, though it will impart a slightly different flavor.
Black pepper freshly ground: For heat that is mild, white pepper can be used; or you could try an array of complex flavors in a pepper blend.
Salt: Sea salt or kosher salt can be used instead of standard table salt, adjusting the amount needed to suit your taste.
Butter that contains no salt: Can be substituted with margarine or a margarine-like product (plant-based butter) to yield a dairy-free option.

Pro Tips

1. Pat Dry the Wings: Before coating the wings in oil, make sure they are thoroughly patted dry with paper towels. This will help the skin to become extra crispy when baking.