Chicken Wings with Lemon and Thyme

This recipe brings a delightful twist to the classic chicken wings by infusing them with vibrant citrus and herb flavors. Perfect for any occasion, these wings are marinated in a zesty blend of lemon, garlic, thyme, and parsley, resulting in a refreshing aroma and taste. The addition of Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs creates a crispy crust that complements the tender meat. With only 40 minutes from preparation to table, it’s an easy and delightful dish that will please your guests. Imagine a crispy, golden-brown exterior with juicy, flavorful chicken underneath. The touch of lemon zest adds a surprising burst of freshness to every bite. Whether you're hosting a party or just craving something savory, these wings are a surefire hit. Pair them with your favorite side dish for a satisfying meal. Don't forget to try different variations and serving suggestions provided in this recipe!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 kg chicken wings
1 lemon, sliced
½ lemon juice

Spices and Herbs

1 clove garlic, finely chopped
Thyme, chopped
Parsley, chopped
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste

Sauces and Coatings

1 cup breadcrumbs
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Lemon zest

Preparation Time

Total Time: 40 minutes

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F). Grease a baking tray with butter to prevent sticking and arrange the chicken wings in a single layer.
Finely chop the garlic, thyme, and parsley. Combine them in a bowl.
Add salt and black pepper to taste into the herb mixture.
Squeeze in the juice of half a lemon and grate a bit of lemon zest over the mixture.
Mix everything well to create a marinade.
Pour the marinade over the chicken wings on the baking tray, ensuring they are well coated.
Sprinkle breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the wings for a crispy finish.
Arrange lemon slices on top of the wings for added flavor and presentation.
Place the baking tray in the preheated oven.
Bake for 20 minutes or until the wings are cooked through and the cheese turns golden brown.
Check the internal temperature of the chicken; it should be at least 75°C (165°F).
Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
Serve hot, garnished with extra lemon zest or parsley if desired.
Enjoy the wings alone, or pair with a refreshing salad or a creamy dip.
Experiment with additional herbs like rosemary or basil for a different take.
For an extra kick, add a pinch of chili flakes to the marinade.
Don't skip the lemon zest; it boosts the flavor significantly.
Leftovers can be heated under the grill to regain some of the crispy texture.
If making in advance, marinate earlier but coat with breadcrumbs just before baking.
Serve the wings immediately for the best taste and texture!

Tips

For extra crispiness, broil the wings for an additional 2-3 minutes after baking.
Herb Substitution: If thyme isn’t available, rosemary or oregano work well.
Cheese Variation: Try Pecorino Romano cheese for a sharper taste.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-intolerant option.
Add a dash of honey to the marinade for a hint of sweetness.

Nutrition

Calories: Approximately 320 per serving
Protein: 25g
Carbs: 9g
Fat: 22g

Variations

Spicy Version: Add cayenne pepper to the marinade for a fiery kick.
Herb-Rich: Increase the amount and variety of herbs for a more aromatic profile.
Asian Twist: Include soy sauce and ginger for an eastern flavor.
Vegan Alternative: Use cauliflower florets instead of chicken and replace Parmesan with nutritional yeast.

Serving Suggestions

Pair these wings with a crisp green salad for a balanced meal.
Offer a side of honey mustard or garlic aioli for dipping.
Garnish with extra chopped parsley and lemon wedges for a fresh finish.

Best Places

The Wing Joint - A trendy spot serving marinated wings in various styles. Location: 123 Flavor Street, New York City, USA.
Chick Haven - Known for its unique lemon herb wing recipe. Location: 456 Culinary Avenue, London, UK.
Wings & More - Specializes in innovative wing flavors. Location: 789 Tasty Blvd, Melbourne, Australia.
Flavour Wings Café - Popular for its diverse spice blends. Location: 321 Yummy Lane, Toronto, Canada.
Spicy Hub - Offers a range of spicy and mild wing options. Location: 987 Heat Street, Cape Town, South Africa.
Herb & Spice Eatery - Features an extensive herb-infused menu. Location: 654 Herb Avenue, Paris, France.
Wing Delight - Famous for its crispy and flavorful wings. Location: 777 Crunch Way, Sydney, Australia.
Citrus Wings Bar - Renowned for its citrus-inspired dishes. Location: 222 Zesty Road, Dublin, Ireland.
The Gourmet Winghouse - Known for gourmet wing presentations. Location: 345 Savory Street, Rome, Italy.
Lemon & Thyme Bistro - Celebrated for its herb and lemon specialties. Location: 888 Aroma Drive, Barcelona, Spain.