Spiced Citrus Chicken Wings

🕒 Prep: 15 min
🔥 Cook: 40 min
🍽 Serves: 4
★★★★★
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If you're looking to spice up your appetizer game, these Spiced Citrus Chicken Wings are a must-try. With a perfect balance of heat and citrusy brightness, they're sure to be a hit at your next gathering or cozy night in.

Ingredients for Spiced Citrus Chicken Wings

Chicken wings are the star here, providing a juicy, tender base that absorbs the vibrant flavors. The olive oil helps the spices adhere to the wings and contributes to the crispy finish. With orange zest, you introduce a fragrant citrus note that pairs beautifully with the savory spices. The ground cumin adds warmth and depth, while smoked paprika brings a smoky edge. Garlic powder gives a savory undertone, and cayenne pepper provides just the right amount of heat. Salt and black pepper round out the seasoning, enhancing all the flavors. A blend of lime juice and honey adds a tangy sweetness after baking, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro offers a burst of herbal freshness right before serving.

Tips & Tricks

  • Pat the wings dry with paper towels before adding them to the spice mix for extra crispiness.
  • If you prefer more heat, increase the cayenne pepper to your liking.
  • For a more intense citrus flavor, try adding a bit of lemon zest along with the orange zest.

Serving Suggestions

These wings pair perfectly with a side of creamy coleslaw or a crisp green salad. For an extra kick, serve them with a side of spicy salsa or a cooling yogurt dip. If you're hosting a party, consider presenting them alongside a platter of fresh veggies and a selection of dips.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen wings?
Yes, just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before seasoning.
What if I don't have smoked paprika?
You can substitute with regular paprika, but you might miss out on the smoky flavor. Consider adding a dash of liquid smoke.
How can I store leftovers?
Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness.

Spiced Citrus Chicken Wings Recipe Walkthrough

First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil to make cleanup a breeze. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, orange zest, ground cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. This creates a wonderfully aromatic paste that will coat the wings.

Add the chicken wings to the bowl and toss them until they're fully covered with the spice mix. Really get in there with your hands or a spatula to ensure every wing is well-coated. Spread the wings out on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. This ensures they cook evenly and get crispy.

Bake the wings for 35-40 minutes. About halfway through, flip them over. This helps them cook evenly on both sides and gives you that coveted golden-brown crust. While the wings are baking, mix together the lime juice and honey in a small bowl. When the wings are done, drizzle this mixture over them and toss to coat. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for that final pop of flavor.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
  • The citrus zest adds a refreshing twist to the classic spicy wing.
  • Baked, not fried, for a healthier option that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
  • A crowd-pleaser that can be adapted to different spice levels.

Ingredients

2 lbs chicken wings
1/4 cup olive oil
1 tbsp orange zest
2 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1 tbsp fresh lime juice
1 tbsp honey
1 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with aluminum foil.
2. In a large bowl, combine olive oil, orange zest, ground cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
3. Add the chicken wings to the bowl and toss until they are fully coated with the spice mixture.
4. Arrange the wings in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the wings are crispy and golden brown.
6. In a small bowl, mix lime juice and honey. Drizzle over the baked wings and toss to coat.
7. Sprinkle with fresh cilantro before serving for an added burst of flavor.

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