Lime and Cilantro Chicken Wings

Name: Lime and Cilantro Chicken Wings
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup fresh cilantro, chopped; Juice of 2 limes; 1/4 cup olive oil; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 2 pounds chicken wings; 1 lime, cut into wedges for serving; Extra cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Everyday Simple Recipes

I absolutely love making Lime and Cilantro Chicken Wings for gatherings. These wings are marinated in a zesty blend of lime juice and fresh cilantro, which elevates their flavor to another level. The marinade penetrates the chicken, creating a juicy and tangy experience that pairs perfectly with any side dish. Plus, the bright colors and fresh aroma really make this dish stand out. It’s an easy recipe that gives the impression of gourmet dining, making it a delightful addition to any meal.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-17T15:12:28.455Z

When I first tried Lime and Cilantro Chicken Wings, I was amazed by the vibrant, fresh flavors that danced on my palate. The combination of zesty lime and fragrant cilantro in the marinade really transforms traditional wings into something special. I learned that letting the chicken marinate for at least an hour greatly enhances the flavor, ensuring every bite is a burst of freshness.

Each time I make these wings, I enjoy tweaking the recipe a little by adding crushed garlic or a dash of chili for extra heat. It’s a versatile dish that never fails to impress my friends and family, and they often ask for the secret to my amazing chicken wings!

        Why You'll Love These Wings
        Tangy lime flavor with a hint of cilantro freshness
Perfectly crispy texture with juicy meat
Quick and easy to prepare, great for any occasion

      

The Zesty Marinade

The marinade for these Lime and Cilantro Chicken Wings is the star of the show. The fresh cilantro not only brings vibrant color but also introduces a unique, earthy flavor that beautifully complements the tang of lime. When marinating, you’ll want to ensure the wings are fully submerged in the marinade, allowing the flavors to penetrate deeply. For optimal results, marinate the wings overnight; this intensifies the flavors and delivers a truly mouth-watering experience.

Olive oil plays a crucial role, helping to keep the chicken wings moist during baking. It also aids in achieving that coveted crispy texture on the outside. If you need a substitute for olive oil, grapeseed or avocado oil can be excellent options, as they possess high smoke points and subtle flavors that won't overpower the zing of the lime.

Mastering the Bake

Baking the wings at 425°F (220°C) is essential for achieving a perfect crispness. The high heat allows the skin to render its fat, making it golden brown and crunchy. Ensure you don’t overcrowd the baking sheet—this helps heat circulate evenly around each wing. If the wings are too close together, they may steam instead of crisp, resulting in a less appealing texture.

Halfway through baking, flipping the wings enhances their browning. Look for that golden color and a slightly firm texture when they’re nearly done. A quick broil for the last few minutes can help achieve extra crispness. Just keep a close eye to prevent burning; it takes only a minute or two to go from perfectly crisp to charred.

Ingredients

For the Marinade

1 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Juice of 2 limes
1/4 cup olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For the Chicken Ingredients

2 pounds chicken wings
1 lime, cut into wedges for serving
Extra cilantro for garnish

Instructions

Prepare the Marinade

In a large bowl, combine chopped cilantro, lime juice, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.

Marinate the Wings

Add the chicken wings to the marinade and ensure they are well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to overnight for more flavor.

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Bake the Chicken Wings

Arrange the marinated wings on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 25 minutes, turning halfway through, until wings are crispy and cooked through.

Serve

Remove the wings from the oven, garnish with lime wedges and fresh cilantro, and serve hot.

Pro Tips

For extra crispiness, broil the wings for the last 5 minutes of cooking. Adjust the kick of flavor by adding sliced jalapeños to the marinade if you enjoy a bit of heat.

Serving Suggestions

These Lime and Cilantro Chicken Wings are perfect as an appetizer or main dish. I love serving them alongside a homemade avocado dip to balance their zest with creamy richness. You can also provide a side of fresh veggies or a crisp salad to complement the wings, adding a refreshing contrast to the savory flavors.

For a fun twist, consider using these wings as a topping on nachos or in tacos. Shred the cooked wings and layer them on tortilla chips with cheese, jalapeños, and your favorite toppings for a delicious sharing platter. The citrus notes from the marinade really elevate these dishes.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store the wings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To maintain the flavors, it’s best to keep them in their marinade or add a splash more lime juice before sealing. When reheating, an oven is the best option to revive that crispy texture. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and heat the wings for 10-15 minutes, turning them halfway through until warmed through and crispy.

For longer storage, these wings can be frozen for up to three months. Make sure to place them in a freezer-safe bag, removing as much air as possible. When you're ready to enjoy them, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as mentioned above. This makes it easy to prepare a batch in advance for your next gathering.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken wings?

Yes, just make sure to thaw them completely before marinating.

→ How long can I marinate the wings?

You can marinate them for up to 24 hours in the fridge for maximum flavor.

→ Can I grill these wings instead of baking?

Absolutely! Grill them over medium heat for about 20 minutes, turning occasionally.

→ What can I serve with these wings?

They pair well with a fresh salad, vegetable sticks, or your favorite dipping sauce.