You guys will love this tangy lemon chicken wings! They are an absolute delight, bursting with vibrant flavors in every bite. The crisp, golden skin gives way to juicy, tender meat that’s perfectly infused with the bright, zesty punch of fresh lemon. Each bite is a balance of savory and tangy, with the lemon’s citrusy zing cutting through the richness of the wings, leaving your taste buds dancing. The subtle hint of garlic and herbs complements the lemon beautifully, making these wings irresistibly mouthwatering. They’re so delicious that once you start, it’s hard to stop at just one!

Baking the perfect chicken wings requires a balance of crispiness on the outside and juicy, tender meat on the inside.

Tips for Perfect Chicken Wings:

Resting Time: Allowing the wings to rest for a few minutes after baking helps retain their juices, making them tender inside.

Baking Powder: This is the secret to crispy wings. It raises the pH of the skin, breaking down the proteins and allowing the skin to become crisp and brown.

Temperature: Baking at a high temperature (220°C) ensures the wings cook through quickly and get crispy.

Dry Wings: Removing as much moisture as possible before baking is key to crispiness.

These baked wings are not only healthier than fried versions but also just as delicious, with that perfect balance of crispy skin and tender meat. Enjoy them as an appetizer, snack, or main dish!

The key to this addictive flavour is the home-made lemon seasoning and the coating sauce. Creating a homemade lemon seasoning is a fantastic way to add a burst of fresh, citrusy flavor to your dishes. Here’s how you can make a versatile lemon seasoning blend that’s perfect for chicken, fish, vegetables, and more.

Ingredients:

1. Lemon Zest (from 3-4 lemons)
2. Salt (2tbsp. In this recipe I didn’t add salt because the onion powder that I used was already salted)
3. Black Pepper (1 tsp)
4. Garlic Powder (1 tbsp)
5. Onion Powder (1 tbsp)
6. Dried Herbs (Optional but recommended)
   • Dried thyme (1 tbsp)
   • Dried oregano (1 tbsp)
   • Dried rosemary (1 tbsp)
7. Paprika (1 tsp) (Optional for a bit of warmth)
8. Sugar (1/2 tsp) (Optional, to balance the tanginess)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Lemon Zest:
   • Zest 3-4 lemons using a microplane or fine grater. Be careful to only remove the bright yellow part of the skin, as the white pith beneath is bitter.
   • Spread the zest out on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
2. Dry the Lemon Zest:
   • You can either let the zest air-dry for about 24 hours in a cool, dry place, or speed up the process by drying it in the oven.
   • To oven-dry, preheat your oven to the lowest possible setting (around 65°C). Place the baking sheet with the zest in the oven for about 20-30 minutes, checking often to prevent burning. The zest is ready when it’s completely dry and crumbly.
3. Mix the Seasoning:
   • In a bowl or in this recipe I used pestle and mortar, combine the dried lemon zest with salt, herbs, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika (if using).
   • Mix thoroughly to ensure even distribution of all ingredients.
4. Store the Seasoning: Transfer the seasoning mix to an airtight jar or container. Store it in a cool, dry place. It should keep its flavor for several months.

Uses:

• Rub it on Chicken or Fish: Before grilling, baking, or roasting, rub the lemon seasoning onto chicken, fish, or even shrimp for a burst of citrus flavor.
• Sprinkle on Vegetables: Toss your favorite vegetables in olive oil and a generous sprinkle of this lemon seasoning before roasting.
• Add to Marinades: Mix the seasoning into marinades for a deeper, more complex flavor.
• Garnish: A light sprinkle over finished dishes adds a final touch of zesty goodness.

This homemade lemon seasoning is not only easy to make but also versatile, bringing a refreshing, tangy twist to a wide variety of dishes.