Baked Lemon Pepper Wings Recipe

Crispy, flavorful, and oh-so-satisfying, baked lemon pepper wings are the perfect addition to any gathering, game day, or even a cozy night in. Unlike traditional fried wings, this baked version offers a healthier alternative without sacrificing flavor or texture. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a batch of these zesty delights that will have everyone coming back for more. Let’s dive into the details of this scrumptious Baked Lemon Pepper Wings Recipe.

Why Baked Lemon Pepper Wings Recipe is Worth Your Time

There are countless reasons to love this Baked Lemon Pepper Wings Recipe. First and foremost, the combination of lemon and pepper creates a bright and refreshing flavor that elevates the chicken wings to new heights. The baking process ensures that the wings remain juicy on the inside while achieving a beautiful crispy skin on the outside. Moreover, this recipe is simple, requiring minimal prep time, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings. Plus, they are easy to customize if you want to experiment with different seasonings or sauces.

What to Buy

To get started with this Baked Lemon Pepper Wings Recipe, here’s what you’ll need:

• 2.5-3 pounds of trimmed chicken wings (often referred to as party wings)
• 1/4 cup lemon-pepper seasoning
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 teaspoons baking powder (make sure it’s aluminum-free)
• Nonstick cooking spray

These ingredients are easy to find at your local grocery store and are often staples in many kitchens, making this recipe accessible for everyone.

Equipment Breakdown

Before you start cooking, gather the necessary equipment:

• Mixing Bowl: For combining the seasoning and oil.
• Baking Sheet: A large, rimmed baking sheet is ideal for catching any drippings.
• Cooling Rack: This will allow the hot air to circulate around the wings, helping them get crispy.
• Oven: Preheat your oven to ensure even cooking.
• Cooking Spray: To prevent sticking and promote crispiness.

Stepwise Method: Baked Lemon Pepper Wings Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). A hot oven is crucial for achieving that perfect crispy skin.

Step 2: Prepare the Wings

In a large mixing bowl, combine the trimmed chicken wings, olive oil, baking powder, and lemon-pepper seasoning. Toss everything until the wings are evenly coated.

Step 3: Set Up for Baking

Line your baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup, then place a cooling rack on top of the baking sheet. Spray the rack with nonstick cooking spray to prevent the wings from sticking.

Step 4: Arrange the Wings

Place the coated wings in a single layer on the cooling rack. Make sure they are not overcrowded to allow for even cooking.

Step 5: Bake the Wings

Slide the baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, flipping the wings halfway through. This will help them brown evenly.

Step 6: Crisp Them Up

For an extra crispy finish, you can broil the wings for an additional 2-3 minutes at the end. Keep a close eye on them to avoid burning.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Remove the wings from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce or alongside a refreshing salad. Enjoy your homemade Baked Lemon Pepper Wings Recipe!

Budget & Availability Swaps

If you’re looking to save a bit or make some adjustments, consider these swaps:

• Chicken Wings: You can substitute with chicken drumsticks if that’s what you have on hand.
• Lemon-Pepper Seasoning: If you can’t find pre-made lemon-pepper seasoning, create your own by mixing lemon zest, black pepper, garlic powder, and salt.
• Olive Oil: Can be replaced with avocado oil or melted coconut oil for a different flavor.

Avoid These Mistakes

To ensure your Baked Lemon Pepper Wings Recipe turns out perfectly, avoid these common pitfalls:

• Skipping the baking powder: This ingredient is essential for achieving that desirable crispiness.
• Overcrowding the baking sheet: Wings need space to cook evenly, so avoid placing too many on the rack.
• Not preheating the oven: Always allow your oven to reach the desired temperature before placing the wings inside.

Refrigerate, Freeze, Reheat

After enjoying your delicious wings, you might be wondering about storage options:

• Refrigerate: Store any leftover wings in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: To freeze, place the wings in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be kept for up to 2 months.
• Reheat: For best results, reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through and crispy again.

Baked Lemon Pepper Wings Recipe Q&A

Can I use frozen chicken wings for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken wings. However, be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before coating and baking for the best results.

What can I serve with baked lemon pepper wings?

These wings pair wonderfully with a variety of sides, including celery sticks, carrot sticks, or a fresh salad. You can also serve them with dips like ranch or blue cheese dressing.

How do I make the wings spicier?

If you prefer a spicier kick, add some cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the seasoning mix before coating the wings.

Can I bake these wings in advance?

While it’s best to enjoy them fresh, you can prepare the wings in advance and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake them. Just be sure to allow them to come to room temperature before baking.

Weekend Projects

If you loved this Baked Lemon Pepper Wings Recipe, here are some other recipes you might enjoy:

• Lemon Garlic Steak Chuck Blade
• Honey Garlic Chicken

Make It Tonight

With its simple ingredients and straightforward process, this Baked Lemon Pepper Wings Recipe is a fantastic option for dinner tonight. Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy an irresistible dish that will impress family and friends alike. Whether for game day, a gathering, or a simple weeknight meal, these wings are sure to be a hit!

Indulge in the perfect balance of flavor and crunch with this easy recipe. Happy cooking!

Baked Lemon Pepper Wings Recipe

These Baked Lemon Pepper Wings are crispy, zesty, and oh-so-satisfying! Perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 45 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Appetizer

Cuisine: American

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

For the Wings:

• 2.5-3 pounds trimmed chicken wings (often referred to as party wings)
• 1/4 cup lemon-pepper seasoning
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 teaspoons baking powder (make sure it’s aluminum-free)
• as needed nonstick cooking spray

Equipment

• Mixing Bowl
• Baking sheet
• Cooling rack
• Oven
• Cooking spray

Method

 

Stepwise Instructions:

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) to ensure crispy skin.
2. Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the chicken wings, olive oil, baking powder, and lemon-pepper seasoning. Toss until evenly coated.
3. Step 3: Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and place a cooling rack on top. Spray the rack with cooking spray.
4. Step 4: Arrange the wings in a single layer on the cooling rack, ensuring they are not overcrowded.
5. Step 5: Bake the wings for 40-45 minutes, flipping them halfway through for even browning.
6. Step 6: For extra crispiness, broil the wings for an additional 2-3 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.
7. Step 7: Let the wings rest for a few minutes, then serve with your favorite dipping sauce or a refreshing salad.

Notes

• For extra flavor, consider adding cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Wings can be frozen for up to 2 months; reheat in the oven for best results.