Baked Garlic Lemon Wings

If you’re looking for a finger-licking appetizer that scores big on flavor while being easy to whip up, look no further than these Baked Garlic Lemon Wings. Bursting with zesty lemon and aromatic garlic, these wings are perfect for game nights, family gatherings, or even a cozy dinner at home. The best part? They’re baked to perfection, giving you that crispy texture without the mess and hassle of frying. Get ready to enjoy a deliciously tangy treat that everyone will love!

Why I Love This Recipe

I absolutely adore these Baked Garlic Lemon Wings for their simplicity and vibrant flavor. The combination of garlic, lemon, and a touch of sweetness from honey creates a marinade that infuses the chicken wings with incredible taste. Plus, baking them means you can enjoy all the crunchiness without the guilt. These wings are not just a dish; they’re an experience—perfectly crispy, savory, and brightened with a citrus kick.

What You’ll Need

To make these delicious wings, gather the following ingredients:

• 1 1/2 lbs (750g) chicken wings
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 1/2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 2 1/2 tablespoons honey
• 3 dashes black pepper powder
• 1 pinch cayenne pepper
• Lemon wedges, for serving

Tools & Equipment Needed

Before you start cooking, make sure you have the following tools on hand:

• Baking sheet – for baking the wings.
• Parchment paper – to line the baking sheet for easy clean-up.
• Mixing bowl – to combine the marinade ingredients.
• Brush or spoon – for coating the wings with the marinade.
• Meat thermometer – to ensure the wings are cooked to perfection.

From Start to Finish: Baked Garlic Lemon Wings

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a mixing bowl, combine the minced garlic, soy sauce, lemon juice, honey, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Whisk together until well blended. This marinade is the secret to the incredible flavor.

Step 2: Marinate the Wings

Add the chicken wings to the bowl with the marinade. Use your hands or a spatula to ensure each wing is coated thoroughly. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. For even more flavor, marinate for a few hours or overnight.

Step 3: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature is ideal for achieving that crispy skin while keeping the meat juicy.

Step 4: Prepare the Baking Sheet

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent the wings from sticking and make clean-up a breeze.

Step 5: Arrange the Wings

Place the marinated wings in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure they’re not touching to allow for even cooking.

Step 6: Bake the Wings

Bake the wings in the preheated oven for about 40-45 minutes, flipping them halfway through. Keep an eye on them; they should be golden brown and crispy.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Once cooked, remove the wings from the oven and serve them hot with lemon wedges on the side. The fresh lemon juice enhances the flavors even further, making these Baked Garlic Lemon Wings a hit at any gathering.

Ingredient Swaps & Substitutions

If you’re missing an ingredient or looking to customize, here are some swaps you can make:

• For a gluten-free option, use tamari instead of soy sauce.
• Maple syrup can replace honey for a vegan alternative.
• Use fresh lemon zest for an extra citrusy kick.
• Try using chicken drumsticks instead of wings for a different texture.

Pro Tips & Notes

• For extra crispy wings, broil them for the last 2-3 minutes of baking.
• Make sure to pat the wings dry before marinating to help the skin crisp up.
• Feel free to adjust the amount of cayenne pepper based on your spice preference.
• Pair these wings with a refreshing dip, like ranch or blue cheese, for a satisfying experience.

Keep-It-Fresh Plan

These Baked Garlic Lemon Wings are best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to restore their crispiness. You can also freeze the marinated wings before baking. Just thaw and bake when you’re ready for a quick meal!

Popular Questions

Can I use frozen chicken wings?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken wings! Just thaw them completely before marinating and baking. This will ensure even cooking and better flavor absorption.

How do I know when the wings are done?

The wings are fully cooked when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check this easily.

Can I grill these wings instead of baking?

Absolutely! These Baked Garlic Lemon Wings can be grilled for a smoky flavor. Just follow the same marinating steps and grill them over medium heat until they’re crispy and cooked through.

What should I serve with these wings?

These wings pair beautifully with a variety of sides. You might try a fresh salad, some crispy fries, or even Garlic Herb Butter Crockpot Pot Roast for a hearty meal.

Desserts to Finish

After enjoying your Baked Garlic Lemon Wings, why not treat yourself to something sweet? Here are some delightful dessert ideas:

• Chocolate Lava Cake – A rich and gooey indulgence.
• Lemon Tart – Bright and refreshing to complement your meal.
• Cheesecake Brownies – A deliciously decadent mix of cheesecake and brownie.
• Fruit Sorbet – A light and fruity option to cleanse your palate.

Ready, Set, Cook

Now that you have all the details to create your own batch of Baked Garlic Lemon Wings, it’s time to gather your ingredients and start cooking! This recipe is not just about the food; it’s about gathering loved ones around the table and enjoying the moments together. Happy cooking!