Introduction to Lemon Pepper Baked Chicken Wings
As a busy mom, I know how challenging it can be to whip up a meal that everyone will love. That’s why I’m excited to share my recipe for Lemon Pepper Baked Chicken Wings! These wings are not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make. Whether you’re hosting a game night or just need a quick dinner solution, these crispy delights will impress your family and friends. With their zesty flavor and satisfying crunch, they’re sure to become a favorite in your household. Let’s dive into this simple yet mouthwatering recipe!
Why You’ll Love This Lemon Pepper Baked Chicken Wings
These Lemon Pepper Baked Chicken Wings are a lifesaver for busy days! They come together in just over an hour, making them perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a last-minute gathering. The bright, zesty flavor of lemon combined with the savory pepper creates a taste explosion that will have everyone coming back for more. Plus, they’re baked, not fried, so you can enjoy them guilt-free!
Ingredients for Lemon Pepper Baked Chicken Wings
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making these Lemon Pepper Baked Chicken Wings a hit! Here’s what you’ll need:
- Chicken Wings: The star of the show! Look for fresh or frozen wings, and feel free to use drumettes or flats, depending on your preference.
- Olive Oil: This helps the seasoning stick and gives the wings a lovely crispiness. You can substitute with avocado oil if you prefer.
- Lemon Pepper Seasoning: A zesty blend that brings the signature flavor. You can buy it pre-made or mix your own with lemon zest and black pepper.
- Garlic Powder: Adds a savory depth to the wings. Fresh minced garlic works too, but be careful not to burn it!
- Salt: Essential for enhancing all the flavors. Adjust to your taste, especially if you’re watching your sodium intake.
- Black Pepper: A little kick to balance the lemony goodness. Freshly ground black pepper is always a great choice.
- Fresh Lemon Juice: Brightens up the dish and adds a fresh zing. If you don’t have fresh lemons, bottled juice will do in a pinch.
For exact quantities, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything listed for easy printing. Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s move on to the fun part—cooking!
How to Make Lemon Pepper Baked Chicken Wings
Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s get cooking! Making Lemon Pepper Baked Chicken Wings is a breeze, and I promise you’ll love the process. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a plate of crispy, flavorful wings in no time!
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Preheating is crucial because it ensures that your wings cook evenly and get that perfect crispy texture. Think of it as warming up your kitchen for a delicious feast!
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Wings
In a large bowl, toss the chicken wings with olive oil, lemon pepper seasoning, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and fresh lemon juice. Make sure every wing is well-coated. I like to use my hands for this part; it’s messy but effective! Just imagine the flavors melding together as you mix.
Step 3: Arrange on Baking Sheet
Next, arrange the wings in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Spacing is key here! If the wings are too close together, they’ll steam instead of crisp up. We want that golden-brown crunch, so give them some room to breathe!
Step 4: Bake the Wings
Now it’s time to bake! Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and let the wings bake for 40-45 minutes. Flip them halfway through to ensure they cook evenly. You’ll know they’re done when they’re golden brown and crispy. The aroma will fill your kitchen, making it hard to resist sneaking a taste!
Step 5: Cool and Serve
Once they’re out of the oven, let the wings cool for a few minutes. This helps them firm up a bit more. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauce, and watch everyone dig in! These Lemon Pepper Baked Chicken Wings are perfect for sharing, but I won’t judge if you keep them all to yourself!
Tips for Success
- For extra crispiness, broil the wings for 2-3 minutes after baking.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the wings reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Let the wings rest for a few minutes before serving to lock in the juices.
- Experiment with different dipping sauces like ranch or blue cheese for added flavor.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days.
Equipment Needed
- Baking Sheet: A standard baking sheet works great. If you don’t have one, a large oven-safe dish will do.
- Parchment Paper: This helps with easy cleanup. If you’re out, aluminum foil can be a good substitute.
- Large Bowl: For mixing the wings. Any mixing bowl will suffice!
- Tongs: Handy for flipping the wings. If you don’t have tongs, a spatula can work too.
Variations
- Spicy Lemon Pepper: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the seasoning for a spicy kick.
- Herb-Infused: Mix in dried herbs like oregano or thyme for an aromatic twist.
- Honey Lemon Glaze: Drizzle honey over the wings before baking for a sweet and tangy flavor.
- Garlic Lemon Pepper: Increase the garlic powder for a more robust garlic flavor that pairs beautifully with lemon.
- Low-Sodium Option: Use low-sodium salt and seasoning to make a healthier version without sacrificing taste.
Serving Suggestions
- Fresh Veggies: Serve with a platter of crunchy carrots, celery, and bell peppers for a refreshing contrast.
- Dipping Sauces: Pair with ranch, blue cheese, or a zesty yogurt dip for extra flavor.
- Refreshing Drinks: Enjoy with a chilled lemonade or a crisp white wine to complement the zesty wings.
- Presentation: Garnish with lemon wedges and fresh parsley for a pop of color on your serving platter.
FAQs about Lemon Pepper Baked Chicken Wings
As you embark on your culinary adventure with Lemon Pepper Baked Chicken Wings, you might have a few questions. Here are some common queries I’ve encountered, along with helpful answers to guide you!
Can I use frozen chicken wings for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them completely before seasoning and baking. This ensures even cooking and that delicious crispy texture we all love.
How can I make my wings extra crispy?
For that perfect crunch, try broiling the wings for an additional 2-3 minutes after baking. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning!
What dipping sauces pair well with lemon pepper wings?
Ranch and blue cheese are classic choices, but a zesty yogurt dip or even a spicy sriracha sauce can elevate the flavor even more!
Can I make these wings ahead of time?
Yes! You can bake them ahead and store them in the fridge. Just reheat in the oven to restore their crispiness before serving.
What can I serve with Lemon Pepper Baked Chicken Wings?
These wings pair wonderfully with fresh veggies, a light salad, or even some crispy fries. They’re versatile enough to fit any occasion!
Final Thoughts
Making Lemon Pepper Baked Chicken Wings is more than just cooking; it’s about creating joyful moments around the dinner table. The zesty aroma wafting through your kitchen will have everyone eagerly anticipating the first bite. These wings are not only easy to prepare but also a delightful treat that brings smiles to faces. Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a lively gathering with friends, these wings are sure to be a hit. So, roll up your sleeves, embrace the mess, and enjoy the delicious rewards of your culinary adventure!
Print
Lemon Pepper Baked Chicken Wings That You’ll Crave!
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Delicious and crispy lemon pepper baked chicken wings that are easy to make and perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds chicken wings
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon pepper seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large bowl, toss the chicken wings with olive oil, lemon pepper seasoning, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and lemon juice until well coated.
- Arrange the wings in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the wings are golden brown and crispy.
- Remove from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, broil the wings for an additional 2-3 minutes after baking.
- Adjust the amount of lemon pepper seasoning to taste.
- Serve with your favorite dipping sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 wings
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: Lemon Pepper Baked Chicken Wings, Chicken Wings Recipe, Baked Wings



