These Lemon Pepper Wings are crispy and bursting with zesty flavor! Tossed in a tangy lemon and pepper seasoning, they make the perfect snack or appetizer.
Just imagine biting into that crunch with a hint of citrus! I can’t help but make extra to share—who are we kidding, they’ll disappear fast! 🍋🍗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Wings: I love using a mix of drumettes and flats for the ultimate wing experience. If you’re in a pinch, you could opt for boneless chicken breast or thighs, but the skin helps achieve that crispy texture we’re after.
Olive Oil: Olive oil adds flavor and helps with browning. You can substitute with vegetable or canola oil if you prefer. Avocado oil is another great option due to its high smoke point.
Black Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper gives the best flavor. If you don’t have it on hand, pre-ground pepper works too, though it may lack some freshness.
Lemon Zest: Fresh lemon zest is crucial. It adds an essential zing! If you’re out of lemons, lime zest works as a nice alternative, offering a different citrus punch.
Garlic and Onion Powder: These add depth to the flavor. If you’re looking for a fresh twist, feel free to add minced garlic or shallots instead, but cook them lightly to avoid burning.
How Do I Get My Chicken Wings Extra Crispy?
For wings that are irresistibly crispy, follow these steps closely:
- High Heat: Cooking them at 400°F (200°C) helps to render the fat and crisp up the skin.
- Airflow: Using a wire rack is key here. It allows hot air to circulate around the wings, making them crispy on all sides.
- Flip Halfway: Remember to flip the wings halfway through baking. This ensures even cooking and helps get that golden brown finish.
- Toss in the Sauce Immediately: Once cooked, tossing the wings in the lemon mixture while they’re still hot allows them to absorb more flavor.
How to Make Lemon Pepper Wings
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 pounds chicken wings, separated into drumettes and flats
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest (from about 2 lemons)
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges for serving
Time Needed:
This recipe will take about 10 minutes of prep time and 40-45 minutes to bake. In total, you’re looking at roughly 55-60 minutes before you can enjoy these delicious wings!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While that’s warming up, line a baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy clean-up and place a wire rack on top. This is where the magic happens!
2. Coat the Wings:
In a large bowl, toss the chicken wings with the olive oil, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and freshly ground black pepper until they’re all nicely coated. This gives every wing a load of flavor!
3. Bake the Wings:
Now, arrange the wings in a single layer on the wire rack. Bake them in your preheated oven for about 40-45 minutes. Be sure to flip them halfway through so they get crispy on all sides. Keep an eye on them—they should turn golden brown and crispy!
4. Make the Lemon Pepper Sauce:
While the wings are baking, mix the lemon zest and freshly squeezed lemon juice in a small bowl. This tangy mixture is what gives our wings their refreshing taste!
5. Toss the Wings:
Once the wings are done and nice and crispy, transfer them to a large bowl while they’re still hot. Pour the lemon pepper mixture over the wings and toss them well to coat every piece evenly.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Top your beautiful wings with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color. Serve them hot with lemon wedges on the side for an extra zing. Enjoy your zesty lemon pepper wings!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Wings?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken wings! Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. The best way to thaw them is by leaving them in the fridge overnight or placing them in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water for a quicker option.
What Should I Do If I Don’t Have Lemon Zest?
No worries! If you’re out of lemon zest, you can use lemon juice as a substitute, but keep in mind that it won’t have the same intense citrus flavor. Alternatively, try using lime zest as a different but delicious twist!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover wings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until they’re warmed through, ensuring they stay crispy!
Can I Make These Wings in an Air Fryer?
Absolutely! If using an air fryer, preheat it to 380°F (193°C) and cook the wings for about 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through. Just make sure they’re not overcrowded in the basket to ensure even crispiness!
