Here’s a simple and delicious recipe for Easy Lemon Garlic Chicken Wings, packed with tangy lemon, fragrant garlic, and savory seasonings. These wings are perfect for a quick snack, appetizer, or main dish!
Ingredients
For the Chicken Wings:
- 12 chicken wings (drumettes and flats, if preferred)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon paprika (optional, for color and flavor)
For the Lemon Garlic Sauce:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional, for a touch of sweetness)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken Wings:
- Prep the wings: Pat the chicken wings dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps achieve crispy wings.
- Season the wings: Toss the wings in olive oil, salt, pepper, and paprika (if using), ensuring they are evenly coated.
Cook the Wings:
- Oven method: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the seasoned wings in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a cooling rack. Bake for 30-35 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the wings are golden brown and crispy.Air fryer method: Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the wings in the air fryer basket in a single layer (you may need to cook in batches). Air fry for 18-22 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even crispiness.
- Check for doneness: The wings should have an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) when fully cooked.
Make the Lemon Garlic Sauce:
- Melt the butter: While the wings are cooking, melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat.
- Sauté the garlic: Add the minced garlic to the melted butter and sauté for about 1-2 minutes, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
- Add lemon and seasonings: Stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, honey (if using), and red pepper flakes (if desired). Let it simmer for another minute, then remove from heat.
Toss and Serve:
- Coat the wings: Once the wings are cooked and crispy, transfer them to a large bowl and pour the lemon garlic sauce over them. Toss gently to coat all the wings evenly in the sauce.
- Garnish: Sprinkle the chopped parsley over the wings for a burst of freshness.
Pro Tips:
- Extra crispy wings: For even crispier wings, try broiling them for 2-3 minutes at the end of cooking.
- Adjust sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter sauce, increase the amount of honey. For more tang, add extra lemon juice.
- Serving ideas: Serve the wings with a side of ranch or blue cheese dressing, celery sticks, or a fresh salad.
These Easy Lemon Garlic Chicken Wings are flavorful, zesty, and sure to be a hit at any meal!