🌶️ Zesty Jalapeño Lime Chicken Wings
Ingredients
(for ~2 lbs of Wings)
For the Wings & Marinade:
2 lbs chicken wings (flats and drumettes)
1-2 Jalapeños, seeded and minced (adjust for heat)
Juice and zest of 1-2 Limes
1 Tbsp Olive Oil
1 tsp Garlic Powder
1 tsp Chili Powder (or a seasoning blend like Tajín or a Mexican rub)
1/2 tsp Salt
1/4 tsp Black Pepper
For the Cilantro-Lime Butter Sauce (Optional
1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted Butter
Juice of 1 Lime
1 Tbsp fresh Cilantro, chopped
1/2 tsp Chili Flakes (optional, for extra kick)
Instructions
1. Marinate the Wings
Prep: Pat the chicken wings thoroughly dry with paper towels—this helps them crisp up later!
Mix: In a large bowl or zip-top bag, combine the minced j
alapeño, lime juice and zest, olive oil, garlic powder, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
Toss & Rest: Add the wings and toss until fully coated. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for maximum flavor.
2. Cook the Wings (Grill Method for best results)
Preheat: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F / 200°C).
Grill: Place the wings on the grill. Cook for about 6-8 minutes per side, flipping every 6-8 minutes, until the wings are golden brown, crispy, and cooked through.
Temperature: For the best texture, the internal temperature should reach 185°F to 195°F (well above the minimum 165°F). Total cook time is typically 35-45 minutes.
Oven Option: Preheat your oven to 400^{\circ}\text{F} (200^{\circ}\text{C}). Place wings on a wire rack set over a foil-lined baking sheet. Bake for 30 minutes, flip, and bake for another 15-20 minutes until crispy.
3. Make the Finishing Sauce
Melt: While the wings are finishing, melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat.
Combine: Stir in the chopped cilantro, chili flakes (if using), and the juice of one lime. Stir for about one minute until combined and warm.
4. Finish and Serve
Toss: Remove the hot wings from the grill/oven and immediately transfer them to a large bowl. Pour the warm cilantro-lime butter sauce over them and toss to coat
thoroughly.
Serve: Garnish with extra lime wedges and fresh cilantro.
