Lemon Pepper Wings are a zesty treat that packs a punch! With juicy chicken wings coated in a bright mix of lemon juice and bold pepper, they are perfect for any gathering.
What’s not to love? The crispy skin and tangy flavor will make your taste buds dance. I often whip these up for game nights—they’re quick, easy, and totally addictive!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Wings: The star of the show! If you can’t find fresh chicken wings, frozen ones are a good alternative. Just be sure to thaw them completely before cooking for even results.
Baking Powder: This is key for achieving crispy skin without frying. If you’re avoiding it, you can simply skip it, but the wings might be less crispy. You can also use cornstarch as a substitute for similar crunch.
Lemon Zest and Juice: Fresh lemon is best for a bright flavor. If you’re short on fresh lemons, bottled lemon juice will work, but the zest adds a wonderful aroma that’s hard to replicate. Lime can also be a zesty alternative.
Spices: If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika works fine, or you can skip it altogether. For a different kick, try adding some cayenne pepper for heat!
How Do I Get My Wings Extra Crispy?
Crispy wings are the key to making these Lemon Pepper Wings truly satisfying. Here are some tips to ensure perfect crispiness:
- Make sure to dry the wings thoroughly with paper towels. This helps the skin crisp up instead of steaming.
- Using a wire rack over the baking sheet is crucial. It allows heat to circulate all around the wings, making them crispy on all sides.
- Don’t overcrowd the wings on the rack. Give them space to breathe for the best texture.
- Flipping the wings halfway through baking helps them cook evenly and achieve that crunchy exterior.
- Letting them rest after baking for a couple of minutes allows any excess steam to escape, keeping the skin crispy!
How to Make Lemon Pepper Wings
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Wings:
- 2 lbs chicken wings, separated into flats and drumettes
- 2 tablespoons baking powder (aluminum-free)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest (from about 1 lemon)
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
For the Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- Juice of 1 lemon (about 2 tablespoons)
- 1 tablespoon freshly cracked black pepper
For Serving:
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 35-45 minutes of cooking time. So overall, you’ll be looking at around an hour to whip up these tangy and crispy Lemon Pepper Wings. Perfect for a quick snack or to impress guests!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepping the Oven and Baking Sheet:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high heat is key to getting those wings crispy! Line a baking sheet with foil for easy cleanup and place a wire rack on top. Lightly grease the rack to prevent sticking.
2. Drying the Wings:
Use paper towels to pat the chicken wings dry. This is important because moisture can lead to soggy wings. A good dry surface helps achieve that crispy skin we all love!
3. Mixing the Seasoning:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the baking powder, salt, black pepper, lemon zest, garlic powder, onion powder, and optionally smoked paprika. Mix well to create a flavorful coating for the wings.
4. Coating the Wings:
Toss the chicken wings in the seasoning mixture until they are evenly coated. Make sure every piece gets a good amount of that tasty spice mix!
5. Arranging for Baking:
Place the seasoned wings in a single layer on the wire rack. Make sure they’re not touching, allowing hot air to circulate, which will help them get perfectly crispy.
6. Cooking the Wings:
Bake the wings in the preheated oven for 35-45 minutes. Flip them halfway through the cooking time for an even crispy finish. They’re done when the skin is golden and crispy, and they’ve reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
7. Making the Lemon Butter Sauce:
While the wings are cooking, prepare the sauce by mixing the melted butter, lemon juice, and freshly cracked black pepper in a small bowl. This sauce is going to take those wings to the next level!
8. Tossing the Wings:
Once the wings are cooked, transfer them to a large bowl. Pour the lemon butter sauce over the wings and toss them well to ensure every wing is coated in that delicious mixture.
9. Serving:
Serve your Lemon Pepper Wings right away, garnished with chopped parsley. Don’t forget to add some lemon wedges on the side for extra zing!
Enjoy these perfectly crispy, tangy, and peppery Lemon Pepper Wings as a delicious appetizer or snack! They won’t last long!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Wings?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken wings! Just make sure to thaw them completely before starting. You can thaw them overnight in the fridge or quickly by submerging them in cold water while still sealed in a plastic bag. Pat them dry before seasoning for the best results.
Can I Make These Wings in an Air Fryer?
Absolutely! To Air Fry, preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and cook the wings for about 25-30 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. This will give you crispy wings without needing to bake!
How Do I Store Leftover Wings?
Store any leftover wings in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through. This will help retain their crispy texture!
Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
Absolutely! If you prefer milder wings, you can reduce the black pepper or omit the smoked paprika. For extra heat, feel free to add cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the seasoning mixture or the butter sauce. Adjust according to your taste!
