Description

Cilantro Lime Chicken Wings are a flavorful and zesty appetizer perfect for any occasion. Marinated in a vibrant blend of fresh cilantro, lime juice, spices, and brown sugar, these wings are oven-baked until crispy and juicy. Served with a tangy dipping sauce and garnished with lime wedges and extra cilantro, they offer a refreshing twist on the classic chicken wing that’s sure to impress guests.

Ingredients

Scale

Marinade and Wings

½ cup chopped cilantro (plus more for garnish, optional)
¼ cup avocado oil
¼ cup fresh lime juice (from 2-3 limes, plus lime wedges for serving, optional)
1 tablespoon packed brown sugar
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon chili powder
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
2 pounds chicken wing portions

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Instructions

Make marinade: In a blender or food processor, combine the chopped cilantro, avocado oil, fresh lime juice, brown sugar, cumin, paprika, chili powder, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Blend until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Reserve ¼ cup of this sauce for dipping later.
Season wings: Pour the remaining marinade into a large bowl. Add the chicken wing portions and toss them thoroughly to coat each wing evenly with the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, up to 2 hours, to let the flavors infuse.
Preheat oven: When ready to cook, set your oven to 400°F (200°C). Prepare a large baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper and placing a wire rack on top to allow air circulation for crisping.
Bake wings: Arrange the marinated chicken wings in a single layer on the wire rack with the skin-side up. Bake for 40 to 45 minutes, flipping the wings halfway through the cooking time. Baste with any remaining marinade when flipping to enhance flavor and moisture. The wings should be golden brown and crispy when fully cooked.
Optional broil for extra crispiness: For crunchier wings, switch your oven to broil and cook for an additional 3 to 5 minutes, monitoring carefully to avoid burning.
Serve: Transfer the wings to a serving platter, garnish with additional fresh cilantro and lime wedges if desired, and serve with the reserved sauce for dipping. Enjoy your zesty and crispy Cilantro Lime Chicken Wings!

Notes

Marinate wings for at least 30 minutes to develop flavor; overnight marinating will intensify the taste.
Using a wire rack allows the heat to circulate and helps the wings bake crispy without frying.
Avocado oil is recommended for its high smoke point, but can be substituted with other neutral oils.
If you prefer spicier wings, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or extra chili powder to the marinade.
Ensure wings are fully cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for food safety.
Broiling last is optional but helps achieve extra crispiness.