Chicken wings with cumin, lemon & garlic

Chicken wings with cumin, lemon & garlic

These chicken wings are marinated in a vibrant blend of garlic, lemon, and aromatic cumin, then baked or barbecued to crispy perfection with a sweet honey glaze. This dish offers a perfect balance of zesty, savory, and sweet flavors, ideal for sharing with friends and family.

Chicken

Prep Time

70 min

Cook Time

50 min

Servings

4

Chicken wings with cumin, lemon, and garlic present a delightful fusion of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern flavors, where the earthy cumin and bright lemon zest awaken the palate. This recipe highlights the versatility of chicken wings, transforming them into a sophisticated yet approachable dish perfect for gatherings. Traditionally, cumin has been used for its warm and comforting notes, which complement the vibrant citrus and pungent garlic beautifully. Marinating the wings allows the spices and citrus to deeply infuse, ensuring each bite is bursting with flavor. The finishing touch of honey adds a subtle sweetness and helps develop a crispy, caramelized exterior when baked or grilled. This combination ensures a delicious contrast of textures and tastes that is both satisfying and memorable. Pair these wings with pickled chilies, olives, nuts, and flatbreads to create a vibrant mezze-style platter. They are excellent served alongside crisp salads, creamy dips like tzatziki, or refreshing lemony couscous to round out a festive meal. Whether for game day or a casual dinner, this dish is sure to impress with its playful, aromatic charm.

Ingredients

  • 12 Chicken Wings
  • 2 cloves minced Garlic
  • Zest and juice of 1 Lemon
  • 1 tsp Cumin Seeds
  • 2 tablespoon Olive Oil
  • 1 tablespoon Honey

Instructions

Step 1: Begin by carefully cutting each chicken wing at the knuckle with sharp kitchen scissors, dividing them into two manageable pieces. This creates more crispy edges and allows the marinade to penetrate deeply. In a spacious bowl, combine the minced garlic, freshly grated lemon zest, and lemon juice with the cumin seeds and olive oil. Season generously with salt and pepper to enhance all the flavors. Place the chicken wings into the marinade bowl and toss thoroughly, ensuring each piece is evenly coated in the fragrant mixture. Cover the bowl tightly with cling film and allow the wings to marinate in the refrigerator for at least one hour—overnight if time permits—to maximize flavor infusion. Step 2: Preheat your oven to 200°C (180°C fan) or gas mark 6. Alternatively, prepare an outdoor barbecue for grilling. Arrange the marinated wings in a single layer on an oven tray to encourage even cooking and plenty of crispiness. Bake the wings for 45 to 50 minutes, flipping once midway to brown all sides beautifully. If using a barbecue, cook the wings for about 20 minutes, turning frequently to prevent burning. During the final 10 minutes of cooking on either method, drizzle the wings with golden honey to create a luscious glaze that caramelizes deliciously. Once cooked to a perfect crisp, transfer the wings to a large serving platter. Serve the dish with plenty of paper napkins—these wings are wonderfully finger-licking good! To elevate the experience, offer small bowls filled with olives, pistachios or almonds, dates, pickled chillies, and warm flatbreads to enjoy alongside. This creates a festive, communal dining atmosphere that invites everyone to indulge and share.

Quick Info

Prep Time
70 min
Cook Time
50 min
Total Time
120 min
Servings
4