Lemon pepper wings are a tasty treat that’s perfect for any gathering! Crispy chicken wings are tossed in a zesty mix of lemon and black pepper, giving them a bright flavor that wakes up your taste buds.
They’re not just crunchy; they’re bursting with tangy goodness! I love serving them with a side of ranch or blue cheese for dipping. Trust me, once you try these, you won’t stop at just one! 🍋🐔
Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Wings: Using fresh or frozen wings works well. If you can’t find wings, drumsticks or thighs can be good substitutes, though cooking times may vary. Thighs will take a bit longer to cook.
Baking Powder: This magical ingredient helps the wings get that crispy skin! If you want to keep it lower in sodium, use baking soda instead but reduce the salt in your recipe.
Lemon Pepper Seasoning: You can use store-bought seasoning, but making your own has a fresher taste. For a unique twist, try adding a pinch of cayenne for heat or garlic powder for extra flavor.
Unsalted Butter: If you’re looking to lower dairy intake, feel free to use olive oil or melted coconut oil instead. They still add flavor while keeping the wings moist.
How Do You Make Sure Your Wings Are Extra Crispy?
Crispy wings are all about proper preparation. Start by ensuring your wings are dry; moisture leads to soggy skin. Here’s how to get them perfectly crispy:
- Pat the wings dry with paper towels thoroughly before seasoning.
- Tossing the wings with baking powder creates a wonderful crispy finish. Make sure they’re well-coated!
- Use a wire rack when baking. It allows air to circulate around the wings, which helps them cook evenly and become crispy.
- If you want even more crispiness, you can broil them for the last few minutes of cooking. Just keep an eye on them to avoid burning.
How to Make Lemon Pepper Wings
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 lbs chicken wings, split into drumettes and flats
- 1 tbsp baking powder (preferably aluminum-free)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp lemon pepper seasoning (store-bought or homemade; see note)
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- Fresh ground black pepper, to taste
- Lemon wedges, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep, plus 35-45 minutes for baking, depending on your oven. After around an hour, you’ll have perfectly crispy and flavorful lemon pepper wings ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). While it warms up, line a baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top. This layer helps the wings get that crispy texture we love!
2. Prepare the Chicken Wings:
Use paper towels to pat the chicken wings dry. This step is very important because dryer wings will be much crispier once cooked!
3. Season the Wings:
In a large bowl, toss the wings with the baking powder and salt until they’re evenly coated. The baking powder will help give them that nice, crunchy crust we’re aiming for!
4. Bake the Wings:
Arrange the seasoned wings in a single layer on the wire rack. Place them in the preheated oven and bake for 35-45 minutes. Don’t forget to turn them halfway through for even cooking until the skin is golden and crispy!
5. Make the Lemon Pepper Sauce:
While the wings are baking, prepare your sauce! In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, lemon zest, lemon juice, lemon pepper seasoning, and a pinch of fresh ground black pepper to taste.
6. Toss the Wings:
Once the wings are done baking, transfer them to a large bowl. Pour the zesty lemon pepper sauce over the hot wings and toss them well to ensure every wing is coated evenly.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your lemon pepper wings immediately, garnished with lemon wedges on the side for that extra citrus kick. Enjoy them solo or with your favorite dipping sauce!
Note for Homemade Lemon Pepper Seasoning:
If you want to make your own seasoning, simply combine 1 tbsp cracked black pepper, 1 tsp salt, 1 tsp garlic powder, and 1 tsp lemon zest (preferably dried or finely grated fresh).
This recipe delivers crispy, juicy wings filled with vibrant lemon and pepper flavors, making them a perfect finger food or appetizer!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Wings for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken wings, but make sure to thaw them completely first! The best way to do this is by leaving them in the refrigerator overnight or you can quickly thaw them in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water.
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level in the Lemon Pepper Wings?
If you prefer a little heat, add some cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to your lemon pepper seasoning mix. Start with a small amount and adjust according to your taste!
Can I Make These Wings in an Air Fryer?
Absolutely! Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Cook the wings in a single layer in the basket for about 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through until they’re crispy. Toss them in the sauce after cooking for the same delicious flavor!
What Should I Do with Leftover Wings?
Store any leftover wings in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can enjoy them cold or reheat them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy again!
