Description
These Lemon-Garlic Chicken Wings are crispy, juicy, and bursting with bright citrus and savory garlic flavors. Marinated in a zesty lemon juice and olive oil mixture with garlic, salt, and pepper, then oven-baked to perfection, these wings make an irresistible appetizer or main dish perfect for gatherings or a flavorful weeknight meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Marinade
- ½ cup Olive Oil
- ½ cup Lemon Juice
- Zest of 1 Lemon
- 2 tablespoons diced Garlic Cloves
- 1 tablespoon plus 1 ½ teaspoons Kosher Salt
- 1 tablespoon plus 1 ½ teaspoons freshly ground Black Pepper
Main Ingredient
- 4 pounds Chicken Wings (thawed if frozen)
Garnish
- Lemon wedges
- Finely diced scallion greens
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, diced garlic, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper until well combined, creating a flavorful marinade base.
- Marinate the Wings: Add the chicken wings to the marinade. Use a spoon or tongs to coat the wings thoroughly, periodically rotating them by lifting from the bottom of the bowl to the top to ensure even coverage. Allow wings to sit in the marinade while you preheat the oven.
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Racks: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line two large rimmed baking sheets with aluminum foil, dull side up, and place baking or cooling racks over the foil to elevate the wings during baking for crispiness.
- Arrange Wings for Baking: Remove the wings from the marinade with tongs, letting excess marinade drain back into the bowl. Lay the wings skin side up on the prepared racks, spacing them to allow air circulation and even cooking.
- Bake Until Crisp and Cooked Through: Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 35 minutes, or until the wings reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the juices run clear. This ensures the wings are fully cooked and have a crispy exterior.
- Serve: Once baked, serve the wings hot, garnished with fresh lemon wedges and a sprinkle of finely diced scallion greens for an added fresh flavor and visual appeal.
Notes
- These wings are delightfully light yet juicy, with a crispy exterior achieved through baking on racks to allow air circulation.
- The citrus and garlic marinade infuses bright, fresh flavors that balance the savory seasoning perfectly.
- Marinating while the oven preheats optimizes prep time, making the recipe quick and efficient.
- The recipe serves 6 generously as a main appetizer, or more if served as part of a larger buffet.
- Using foil on the baking sheets helps with easy cleanup without compromising crispiness.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 532 kcal
- Sugar: 0.5 g
- Sodium: 1283 mg
- Fat: 44 g
- Saturated Fat: 9 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 35 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 2 g
- Fiber: 0.3 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 125 mg
