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Easy Lemon-Pepper Chicken Wings

Easy Lemon-Pepper Chicken Wings

When it comes to finger-licking good appetizers, chicken wings are always a crowd-pleaser. And if youโ€™re looking for a simple yet flavorful recipe that will have your guests begging for seconds, then look no further than these easy lemon-pepper chicken wings. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up a batch of these tangy and savory wings in no time.

So, what makes these wings so special? Itโ€™s all about the combination of zesty lemon and aromatic pepper that adds a burst of flavor to every bite. The tanginess of the lemon perfectly balances the heat from the pepper, creating a tantalizing taste sensation that will leave you wanting more.

To begin, youโ€™ll need some fresh chicken wings. Whether you prefer the drumettes or the flats, make sure they are properly cleaned and trimmed. This will ensure that you get the most succulent wings possible. Once your wings are ready, itโ€™s time to marinate them in the lemon-pepper mixture.

In a bowl, combine freshly squeezed lemon juice, lemon zest, black pepper, a pinch of salt, and a drizzle of olive oil. Mix everything together until well combined. Then, toss in your chicken wings and make sure they are coated evenly with the marinade. Let them sit for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.

Now, itโ€™s time to cook these wings to perfection. You have two options: grilling or baking. Grilling will give you that smoky charred flavor, while baking will result in crispy and tender wings. Whichever method you choose, make sure to preheat your grill or oven to the appropriate temperature.

If youโ€™re grilling, place the wings on a hot grill and cook for about 8-10 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Remember to turn them occasionally to prevent burning. For baking, arrange the wings on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake at 400ยฐF (200ยฐC) for approximately 25-30 minutes, or until they are crispy and golden.

Once your wings are cooked to perfection, itโ€™s time to serve them up. Arrange them on a platter and garnish with some freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color. These lemon-pepper chicken wings are delicious on their own, but if you want to take them to the next level, serve them with a side of homemade ranch dressing or a tangy barbecue sauce.

In conclusion, these easy lemon-pepper chicken wings are a simple yet flavorful appetizer that will impress your guests. The tangy and zesty combination of lemon and pepper adds a burst of flavor to every bite, making them the perfect crowd-pleaser. Whether you choose to grill or bake them, these wings are sure to be a hit at your next gathering. So, why not give them a try and see for yourself?

FAQs:

1. Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh lemon juice?
While fresh lemon juice is always preferred, bottled lemon juice can be a convenient alternative. Just make sure to adjust the amount according to your taste.

2. Can I use ground black pepper instead of freshly cracked pepper?
Absolutely! Ground black pepper will work just fine in this recipe. However, if you have the option, freshly cracked pepper will add a more intense flavor.

3. Can I make these wings spicy?
If youโ€™re a fan of spicy food, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some crushed red pepper flakes to the marinade for an extra kick.

4. How long can I marinate the wings?
You can marinate the wings for up to 24 hours in the refrigerator. The longer they marinate, the more intense the flavors will be.

5. Can I use other cuts of chicken instead of wings?
Absolutely! This marinade works well with other cuts of chicken, such as drumsticks or boneless chicken thighs. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

6. Can I freeze the wings?
Yes, you can freeze the wings after they have been marinated. Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking.

7. Can I use this marinade for other meats?
While this marinade is specifically designed for chicken wings, you can certainly experiment with other meats, such as chicken breasts or pork chops.

8. Can I use this marinade for vegetarian options?
Absolutely! This lemon-pepper marinade can add a burst of flavor to grilled or roasted vegetables, tofu, or even tempeh. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Remember, these easy lemon-pepper chicken wings are all about simplicity and flavor. So, gather your ingredients, fire up the grill or preheat the oven, and get ready to indulge in some seriously delicious wings. Happy cooking!

Easy Lemon Pepper Chicken Wings compressed image1

Easy Lemon-Pepper Chicken Wings

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Course Appetizers
Cuisine American
Servings 4

Ingredients
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  • 2 cups of oil , or as desired
  • 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon of lemon-pepper seasoning
  • 12 chicken wings (bone-in)

Instructions
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  • Preheat oil in a deep-fryer or large saucepan to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C).
  • In a separate bowl, mix together olive oil and lemon-pepper seasoning. Set aside.
  • Fry the wings in the hot oil until they are no longer pink at the bone and the juices run clear. This should take about 8 minutes. Make sure to use an instant-read thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees F (74 degrees C).
  • Once the wings are cooked, toss them in the lemon-pepper mixture to coat them evenly.
  • Please note that the nutritional value of oil used for frying may vary depending on cooking time, temperature, ingredient density, and the specific type of oil used. We have determined the retention value of oil to be 10% after cooking.
Keyword and, Appetizer, appetizers, Big, Chicken, Events, Game, Gatherings, Ingredients, Olympics, Peppercorn, Recipes, Spices, Whole30
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April

Hi, I am April & Welcome to my food blog!

Thank you for visiting my blog. We share delicious recipes to make your meals nourishing and fun. Experimenting in the kitchen and cooking is my joy!

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