There’s something irresistible about perfectly cooked chicken wings coated in a bright, buttery lemon-pepper glaze. Easy Lemon-Pepper Chicken Wings combine crispy golden skin with a punch of citrus and cracked black pepper, delivering a flavor that is both refreshing and savory. Whether baked, air-fried, or deep-fried, these wings are a guaranteed hit at parties, family dinners, or game nights.The magic of lemon-pepper wings lies in their simplicity. With just a few pantry staples—fresh lemon zest, cracked black pepper, butter, and garlic—you can create a bold flavor profile that tastes gourmet without complicated steps.
Lemon-Pepper Chicken Wings:
The tangy citrus balances the richness of the wings, while the pepper adds warmth and depth.These wings are especially popular for their versatility. Serve them as an appetizer, party snack, or even as a main course with a side of fries or salad. Their crispy texture and vibrant flavor make them unforgettable from the first bite to the last.
History:
Lemon-pepper seasoning has roots in Mediterranean-inspired cooking, where citrus and cracked pepper have long been paired to enhance poultry and seafood dishes. However, lemon-pepper chicken wings rose to popularity in the United States, particularly in Atlanta, Georgia, where they became a staple in local wing spots. Over time, the combination of buttery glaze and citrus zest became iconic in American comfort food culture, spreading nationwide through restaurants and home kitchens alike.
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Crispy Zesty Easy Lemon-Pepper Chicken Wings – A Bold, Buttery, Citrus-Kissed Crowd-Pleasing Favorite
Ingredients
- 2 lbs chicken wings (split and tips removed)
- 1 tablespoon baking powder (for crispiness)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 teaspoons freshly cracked black pepper
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
Instructions
- Pat the wings dry with paper towels. Toss with baking powder, salt, and olive oil until evenly coated.
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Arrange wings on a wire rack over a baking sheet. Bake for 35–45 minutes, flipping halfway, until crispy and golden brown.
- In a small bowl, mix melted butter, lemon zest, lemon juice, garlic, and cracked black pepper.
- Remove wings from oven and immediately toss in the lemon-pepper sauce. Garnish with parsley and serve hot.
Notes
- Always pat wings dry for maximum crispiness.
- Baking powder helps achieve crispy skin without frying.
- Use fresh lemon zest for stronger flavor.
- Avoid overcrowding the baking tray.
- Adjust pepper level to taste.
- For extra tanginess, add more lemon juice after baking.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in oven or air fryer to maintain crispiness.
Tips for Lemon-Pepper Chicken Wings:
- Use a wire rack for even air circulation.
- Flip wings halfway for uniform browning.
- Add a pinch of cayenne for heat.
- Air fry at 400°F for 20–25 minutes for quicker cooking.
- Broil for 2–3 minutes at the end for extra crisp.
- Marinate wings for 1 hour for deeper flavour.
- Use coarse black pepper for better texture.
- Serve with ranch or blue cheese dip for balance.
FAQs for Lemon-Pepper Chicken Wings:
Q: Can I make lemon-pepper wings in an air fryer?
Yes, cook at 400°F for about 20–25 minutes, shaking halfway through.
Q: Can I fry them instead of baking?
Absolutely. Deep fry at 375°F for 8–10 minutes until golden and cooked through.
Q: How do I make them extra crispy?
Dry thoroughly and use baking powder before baking.
Q: Can I use bottled lemon juice?
Fresh lemon juice is recommended for best flavor.
Q: Are lemon-pepper wings spicy?
They are mildly spicy from black pepper but not hot.
Conclusion:
Easy Lemon-Pepper Chicken Wings are the ultimate balance of crispy texture and bright, bold flavor. With minimal ingredients and simple preparation, they deliver restaurant-quality taste right from your kitchen. Whether you bake, fry, or air fry them, these wings are guaranteed to impress family and guests alike. Make them once, and they’ll quickly become a go-to favorite for every occasion.