Lemon Pepper Chicken Wings Recipe

Chicken wings: The main protein for this dish, providing a juicy and tender base for the flavors.

Olive oil: Helps to coat the wings and ensures they crisp up nicely in the oven.

Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the wings.

Black pepper: Adds a bit of heat and complements the lemon zest.

Lemon zest: Provides a fresh, citrusy aroma and flavor.

Lemon juice: Adds tanginess and helps to tenderize the chicken.

To ensure your chicken wings come out extra crispy, pat them dry with paper towels before tossing them in the olive oil mixture. Removing excess moisture helps the skin crisp up better in the oven.

• Chicken wings - Substitute with chicken drumettes: Drumettes are a similar cut of chicken that offer a comparable texture and flavor.

• Olive oil - Substitute with canola oil: Canola oil has a neutral flavor and a high smoke point, making it suitable for cooking chicken wings.

• Salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce adds a salty flavor along with a bit of umami, enhancing the overall taste.

• Black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper provides a similar peppery heat but with a slightly different flavor profile.

• Lemon zest - Substitute with lime zest: Lime zest offers a citrusy aroma and flavor that is close to lemon zest.

• Lemon juice - Substitute with apple cider vinegar: Apple cider vinegar provides a tangy acidity that can mimic the brightness of lemon juice.

• Allow the chicken wings to cool completely at room temperature before storing. This prevents condensation, which can make them soggy.

• Transfer the cooled wings to an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag. If using a container, place a piece of parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

• Store the wings in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to regain their crispiness.

• For longer storage, freeze the wings. Lay them out on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid. This prevents them from sticking together.

• Once frozen, transfer the wings to a resealable freezer bag or airtight container. Label with the date to keep track of freshness.

• Frozen wings can be stored for up to 2-3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight.

• Reheat thawed wings in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through and crispy. Avoid microwaving as it can make the wings rubbery.

• For added flavor, toss reheated wings in a bit of fresh lemon juice and lemon zest before serving.

• Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken wings on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil. Cover the wings with another piece of foil to prevent them from drying out. Heat for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are warmed through and crispy.

• Air Fryer Method: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the chicken wings in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Heat for 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even reheating. This method will help maintain the crispiness of the wings.

• Stovetop Method: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of olive oil to the pan. Place the chicken wings in the skillet and cover with a lid. Heat for about 5-8 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are heated through and have a nice, crispy exterior.

• Microwave Method: Place the chicken wings on a microwave-safe plate. Cover them with a damp paper towel to keep them moist. Microwave on high for 2-3 minutes, checking halfway through. This method is quick but may not retain the crispiness as well as other methods.

• Grill Method: Preheat your grill to medium heat. Place the chicken wings on the grill and cook for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are heated through and have a nice char. This method adds a smoky flavor to the wings.

• Oven: Used to bake the chicken wings at a consistent temperature of 400°F (200°C) to ensure they become golden and crispy.

• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining the olive oil, salt, black pepper, lemon zest, and lemon juice with the chicken wings to ensure even coating.

• Baking sheet: Provides a flat surface to place the chicken wings in a single layer, allowing them to cook evenly in the oven.

• Zester: Used to obtain fine lemon zest, which adds a burst of citrus flavor to the chicken wings.

• Juicer: Helps extract fresh lemon juice efficiently, enhancing the flavor of the wings.

• Tongs: Useful for turning the chicken wings halfway through the baking process to ensure they cook evenly on all sides.

• Measuring spoons: Necessary for accurately measuring the olive oil, salt, black pepper, lemon zest, and lemon juice to maintain the recipe's balance.

• Basting brush: Can be used to apply any remaining marinade onto the wings before baking for extra flavor.

• Parchment paper: Optional but recommended to line the baking sheet, making cleanup easier and preventing the wings from sticking.

Prep ingredients ahead: Measure out olive oil, salt, black pepper, lemon zest, and lemon juice before starting to save time during cooking.

Use pre-cut wings: Buy chicken wings that are already cut into sections to avoid extra prep work.

Line the baking sheet: Use parchment paper or aluminum foil on your baking sheet for easy cleanup.

Double the batch: Make extra chicken wings and store leftovers in the fridge for quick meals later.

Preheat the oven: Start preheating your oven before you begin prepping to save time.