Lemon Pepper Wings Recipe
Get ready to fall in love with this Lemon Pepper Wings Recipe – a mouthwatering combination of crispy baked chicken wings, punchy lemon zest, and the zippy power of freshly cracked black pepper. This dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for get-togethers, game-day spreads, or any time a craving for bright, bold flavor hits. The wings come out juicy on the inside, golden on the outside, and get tossed in a quick-fix lemon pepper butter that elevates every bite. If you adore finger-licking, restaurant-style wings but want to keep things lighter (and way tastier), this Lemon Pepper Wings Recipe brings it all home.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This list is delightfully simple, but each ingredient has its moment to shine. Every component in this Lemon Pepper Wings Recipe works together to deliver that signature balance of savory chicken, citrus, and a punch of peppery goodness. Here’s what you’ll need (and why you’ll love it):
- Chicken Wings: Flats and drumettes give you a mix of juicy and crispy, and separating them helps everything cook evenly.
- Olive Oil: Coats the wings so they crisp in the oven and helps the seasoning cling beautifully.
- Salt: Essential for bringing out all the flavors and ensuring each bite is seasoned just right.
- Black Pepper: Adds that signature sharp, warm heat that’s key to authentic lemon pepper wings.
- Garlic Powder: Rounds out the flavor base with just the right touch of savory depth.
- Onion Powder: Adds gentle sweetness and complexity, perfectly balancing the acidity of lemon.
- Lemon Zest: Packs a surprising punch and fragrant brightness without extra moisture.
- Lemon Juice: Delivers that extra-tangy zing and moistens the final toss.
- Unsalted Butter: Rich, melted butter turns the lemon-pepper mix into a luscious glaze.
- Lemon Pepper Seasoning: This is the flavor bomb that pulls the whole Lemon Pepper Wings Recipe together.
- Chopped Parsley (optional): A fresh, colorful garnish if you want a pop of green at the end.
How to Make Lemon Pepper Wings Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Oven and Baking Sheet
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure your wings hit the oven with plenty of heat for crisping up. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper so cleanup is a breeze, and your wings won’t stick—truly, this simple step is a game changer.
Step 2: Dry and Season the Wings
Pat the wings completely dry with paper towels—this helps the skin crisp up instead of steaming. Place them in a large bowl and shower on the olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Toss everything together with your hands, making sure every piece gets coated with delicious flavor. This forms the foundation of the Lemon Pepper Wings Recipe’s savory beauty.
Step 3: Bake Until Crispy
Arrange your seasoned wings in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Give them space—crowding means steaming, not crispy. Pop the tray in the oven and bake for 40–45 minutes, flipping the wings halfway through so each side gets perfectly golden and crunchy. If you’re after extra crunch, broil for the final 2–3 minutes, keeping a close watch.
Step 4: Mix the Lemon Pepper Glaze
While the wings finish their oven magic, create the all-important lemon pepper glaze. In a small bowl, combine lemon zest, lemon juice, melted butter, and lemon pepper seasoning. This aromatic, glossy mixture will soak right into every crispy crevice.
Step 5: Toss and Serve
Once the wings are done, transfer them straight into a big clean bowl. While they’re still piping hot, pour over your zesty lemon pepper mixture and toss until every wing is slicked in sparkle. Sprinkle with chopped parsley if you like a fresh touch, and get ready to dive in while they’re hot—the best way to enjoy this Lemon Pepper Wings Recipe!
How to Serve Lemon Pepper Wings Recipe
Garnishes
Finish your Lemon Pepper Wings Recipe with a scattering of chopped fresh parsley or extra lemon zest for vibrant color and a final pop of aroma. Feel free to turn up the zing with a few thin lemon slices on the plate—they look beautiful and offer more DIY citrus brightness with each bite.
Side Dishes
Pair your wings with classic sides like crisp celery and carrot sticks, or go bolder with a creamy ranch or blue cheese dip. Roasted potato wedges or a simple green salad help round out the meal and soak up every last drop of tangy lemon-pepper flavor.
Creative Ways to Present
Try stacking your wings artfully on a large platter, rimmed with lemon wheels and fresh herbs for maximum wow factor. For game day or parties, serve the wings in parchment cones or on mini skewers for easy, mess-free snacking. Little bowls of extra lemon pepper sauce make for an irresistible dip-on-demand sidekick.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftover Lemon Pepper Wings Recipe can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The crispiness will soften a bit, but the flavor gets even more pronounced as everything melds together overnight.
Freezing
If you’ve made a double batch, let any extra wings cool completely, then freeze in a single layer before transferring to a zip-top bag. This keeps them from sticking. Freeze for up to 3 months and defrost in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, preheat your oven to 375°F and spread the wings on a baking sheet. Warm them for 10–12 minutes until heated through and the skin crisps up again. An air fryer is another fantastic option—5 to 7 minutes at 400°F brings back that must-have crunch.
FAQs
Can I make this Lemon Pepper Wings Recipe in an air fryer?
Absolutely! Arrange the seasoned wings in your air fryer basket and cook at 400°F for 20–25 minutes, shaking halfway through. You’ll get extra crispy results without any oil splatters—and they’re ready in less time than baking.
What is lemon pepper seasoning made of?
Lemon pepper seasoning blends dried lemon zest, cracked black pepper, and usually a mix of dried garlic and onion. Some store-bought mixes include salt, but you can make your own for an extra-fresh and vibrant flavor in this Lemon Pepper Wings Recipe.
Can I use frozen wings?
You can, but be sure to thaw them thoroughly and pat them very dry before tossing with seasonings. Moisture is the enemy of crispy skin, so give yourself a little extra prep time if starting from frozen.
Is there a dairy-free way to prepare this recipe?
Yes! Swap the butter for a vegan margarine or a drizzle of olive oil in the lemon pepper glaze. The wings will still shine with citrusy, peppery flavor without any dairy at all.
Can I make the Lemon Pepper Wings Recipe spicy?
If you love heat, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes to your lemon pepper glaze. The subtle fire plays beautifully with the zingy lemon and sharp pepper.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking to brighten up your kitchen with something quick, easy, and bursting with lively flavor, this Lemon Pepper Wings Recipe truly delivers every time. Roll up your sleeves, get zesting, and enjoy a batch that’s sure to win over wing-lovers everywhere!
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Lemon Pepper Wings Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
These Lemon Pepper Wings are a zesty and flavorful twist on classic chicken wings, perfect for any gathering or as a tasty snack. Crispy baked wings tossed in a tangy lemon pepper seasoning are sure to be a hit!
Ingredients
Chicken Wings:
- 2 pounds chicken wings (flats and drumettes separated)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
Lemon Pepper Sauce:
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 tablespoon lemon pepper seasoning
Garnish:
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare the Wings: Pat the chicken wings dry, then toss them in a bowl with olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Bake the Wings: Arrange wings on the baking sheet and bake for 40–45 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Make the Lemon Pepper Sauce: Mix lemon zest, lemon juice, melted butter, and lemon pepper seasoning in a bowl.
- Toss and Serve: Once wings are cooked, toss them with the lemon pepper sauce, garnish with parsley, and serve hot.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, broil wings for the last 2–3 minutes of baking.
- Air fryer option: Cook wings at 400°F for 20–25 minutes, shaking halfway through.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4–5 wings
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 0 g
- Sodium: 510 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 2 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 28 g
- Cholesterol: 105 mg
