Easy Lemon Garlic Chicken Wings Recipe

Chicken wings are a favorite snack and appetizer for many, and with good reason. They’re flavorful, versatile, and perfect for any occasion. One of the most delicious and easy ways to prepare them is with a lemon garlic marinade. This recipe combines the tangy brightness of lemon with the rich, savory taste of garlic, resulting in wings that are both mouth-watering and easy to make. Whether you’re hosting a party, watching a game, or just craving something tasty, these lemon garlic chicken wings are sure to hit the spot.

Ingredients

For this recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 2 pounds of chicken wings
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup of fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
• 1 tablespoon of lemon zest
• 1/4 cup of olive oil
• 1 tablespoon of honey
• 1 teaspoon of salt
• 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon of paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon of dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon of dried thyme
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
• Lemon wedges for serving (optional)

Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Baking sheet
• Aluminum foil or parchment paper
• Wire rack (optional)
• Tongs
• Small whisk or fork
• Zester or grater

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Wings

1. Clean the Wings: Rinse the chicken wings under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. This step is crucial to remove any excess moisture, which helps achieve crispy skin when baked.
2. Separate the Wings: Using a sharp knife or kitchen shears, separate the wings at the joints into three parts: drumette, wingette (or flat), and tip. Discard the wing tips or save them for making chicken stock.

Step 2: Make the Marinade

1. Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the minced garlic, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, olive oil, honey, salt, black pepper, paprika, dried oregano, and dried thyme. Use a small whisk or fork to thoroughly mix the ingredients until the marinade is well blended.
2. Marinate the Wings: Add the chicken wings to the bowl, ensuring each piece is evenly coated with the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, but preferably for 2-4 hours. Marinating the wings for a longer period allows the flavors to penetrate the meat more deeply.

Step 3: Bake the Chicken Wings

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). If you have a convection setting, use it for an extra crispy finish.
2. Prepare the Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup. Place a wire rack on top of the baking sheet if you have one; this allows air to circulate around the wings and helps them cook evenly and become crispier.
3. Arrange the Wings: Using tongs, arrange the marinated chicken wings in a single layer on the baking sheet or wire rack. Make sure they are not touching each other to ensure even cooking.
4. Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, flipping the wings halfway through the cooking time. The wings should be golden brown and crispy. If you prefer extra crispy wings, you can turn on the broiler for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.

Step 4: Serve the Wings

1. Garnish: Once the wings are done, remove them from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and extra lemon zest if desired.
2. Serve: Serve the wings hot with lemon wedges on the side for an extra burst of citrus flavor. These wings pair well with a variety of dipping sauces, such as garlic aioli, ranch, or blue cheese dressing.

Tips for Perfect Lemon Garlic Chicken Wings

1. Marinating Time: The longer you marinate the wings, the more flavorful they will be. If possible, marinate overnight for the best results.
2. Baking vs. Frying: While baking is a healthier option, you can also deep fry the wings if you prefer a traditional crispy texture. To do this, heat oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 375°F (190°C) and fry the wings for about 10 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Drain on paper towels before tossing them in the marinade.
3. Air Fryer Option: For a quicker cooking time and crispy results, you can use an air fryer. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and cook the wings in a single layer for 20-25 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
4. Adjusting Flavor: Feel free to adjust the seasoning to your taste. Add more garlic for a stronger flavor, more honey for sweetness, or extra lemon juice for tanginess.
5. Storing Leftovers: If you have any leftovers (which is unlikely!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to retain their crispiness.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a rough estimate of the nutritional values per serving (based on 4 servings):

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 20g
• Fat: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 4g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 500mg

Conclusion

These easy lemon garlic chicken wings are a crowd-pleaser and a great addition to any meal or gathering. With a few simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a dish that’s bursting with flavor. The combination of lemon and garlic is a classic that never fails to impress, and baking the wings ensures they’re healthier without sacrificing taste. Enjoy these wings with friends and family, and watch them disappear quickly!

Whether you’re a novice cook or a seasoned chef, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Happy cooking!

Source: kaleforniakravings.com