Chili Lime Chicken Wings Recipe

If you crave wings that are zesty, juicy, and straight-up irresistible, these Chili Lime Chicken Wings are about to be your newest obsession. With their vibrant marinade of lime, cilantro, and a gentle heat from fresh peppers, every bite is a punch of flavor that’ll have you coming back for seconds (and thirds!).

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of these Chili Lime Chicken Wings comes from a short and simple ingredient list, each one playing a key role in building those bold, layered flavors and irresistible texture. You’ll probably have most of these in your kitchen already—and once you taste the results, you’ll keep them handy for every wing craving.

• ½ medium onion, roughly chopped: Adds sweet depth and helps create a luscious marinade base.
• 2 jalapeño peppers or 1 serrano pepper, ribs and seeds removed: Brings just enough kick without overwhelming the citrus brightness.
• 3 garlic cloves, peeled: Essential savory punch that infuses every bite.
• ½ cup cilantro, tightly packed: Fresh and herby, this brings color and a pop of flavor.
• Freshly ground black pepper: For subtle heat and complexity that ties the marinade together.
• Zest from 2 limes: Intensifies the citrus aroma—don’t skip this!
• ¼ cup lime juice: Delivers tangy brightness and works to tenderize the chicken.
• 2 tablespoons Paleo-friendly fish sauce (like Red Boat): Adds umami and a salty backbone without any soy or gluten.
• 2 tablespoons coconut aminos: A touch of natural sweetness and savory depth.
• 6 pounds chicken wings and/or drumsticks: Use all wings, all drumsticks, or a mix—your call!
• 1–2 tablespoons melted fat of choice (such as avocado oil or ghee): For greasing the rack or grill, ensuring that snap-crisp skin.
• 4 limes, cut into wedges: For serving and squeezing—everyone loves that extra zing.

Variations

Part of the beauty of Chili Lime Chicken Wings is how endlessly customizable they are! Whether you want to dial up the heat, adjust for what’s in your fridge, or make them suit your lifestyle, these wings are ready for your personal twist.

• Go Extra Spicy: Keep some jalapeño seeds or swap in hotter chilies for those who crave true heat.
• Make Them Whole30 or Keto: Double-check your fish sauce and coconut aminos for compliance, or substitute with tamari for non-Paleo eaters.
• No-Cilantro Version: Swap in fresh parsley or even a handful of green onions for a punchy, herbaceous flavor without cilantro.
• Air Fryer Friendly: Cook the marinated wings in your air fryer in batches at 400°F until golden and crisp for an easy, hands-off option.

How to Make Chili Lime Chicken Wings

Step 1: Blend the Marinade

Start by piling the onion, peppers, garlic, cilantro, black pepper, lime zest, lime juice, fish sauce, and coconut aminos into your blender or food processor. Blitz everything together until you have a bright, smooth, green purée—the aroma alone is enough to make your mouth water!

Step 2: Marinate the Wings

Add your chicken wings (or drumsticks, or a combo!) to a large bowl. Pour in the marinade and use your hands to mix thoroughly, ensuring every piece is beautifully coated. Cover and stash them in the fridge for at least 30 minutes—or up to 12 hours for even deeper flavor. Don’t marinate too long, or the acid can make the meat mushy.

Step 3: Bring to Room Temperature

When you’re ready to cook, take the wings out of the fridge about 30 minutes ahead of time. This small step helps the wings cook more evenly and stay juicy throughout.

Step 4: Bake or Grill

You can go oven or grill, depending on your mood (and the weather!). For oven-baked, preheat to 400°F (convection) or 425°F (regular), set up a foil-lined baking sheet with a greased wire rack, and arrange the wings. Roast for about 30 minutes, flipping halfway, until deeply golden. Or, head outdoors and grill over medium heat for about 15 minutes, turning once, for that unbeatable smoky crispness.

Step 5: Serve & Squeeze!

Pile the golden Chili Lime Chicken Wings onto a platter, scatter with fresh lime wedges, and invite everyone to dig in. That final squeeze of lime makes all the flavors pop!

How to Serve Chili Lime Chicken Wings

Garnishes

Sprinkle your Chili Lime Chicken Wings with extra chopped cilantro and perhaps a few sliced jalapeños for a pop of color and a touch more heat. Don’t forget those lime wedges—letting your guests squeeze fresh lime over their serve adds drama and unbeatable zing.

Side Dishes

Bright, crisp sides work beautifully here! Think corn salad, fresh slaw, or even simple steamed rice. If you want to lean into the tropical flavors, mango salsa or avocado slices make it a total feast.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties, serve the Chili Lime Chicken Wings on a wide platter with limes and fresh herbs scattered across. If you’re tailgating or picnicking, pack them into parchment-lined baskets. Want a full meal? Arrange over a bed of vibrant greens and let everyone build their own tacos or lettuce wraps!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cool any leftover wings completely, then transfer to an airtight container. They’ll keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, so you can snack or meal-prep ahead without worry.

Freezing

The wings freeze beautifully—just layer them in a freezer-safe bag or container (with parchment between layers to prevent sticking). They keep well up to 2 months. For best results, freeze before adding garnishes or extra lime wedges.

Reheating

Reheat Chili Lime Chicken Wings in a 375°F oven until heated through and the skin crisps up again, about 10 minutes. For just a few, an air fryer is great! Microwaving works in a pinch, but you’ll lose that lovely crispiness.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

There’s something almost magical about a platter of Chili Lime Chicken Wings—bright, bold, and perfectly satisfying whether it’s game day, taco night, or just because. I hope you make (and love!) these as much as I do. Gather your friends and family, squeeze those limes, and get ready for a wing night everyone will remember!

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