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Lemon Pepper Wings (Crispy, Tangy, and Bold Without Being Heavy)
Isla Marie

lemon pepper wings

Crispy chicken wings tossed in a bright, buttery lemon pepper sauce with a clean citrus finish. Simple to make, bold in flavor, and perfect for game nights or casual dinners.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 4
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 430
Ingredients Equipment Method Video Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 pounds chicken wings split and tips removed
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Lemon Pepper Sauce
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1½ teaspoons lemon pepper seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Baking sheet or air fryer basket
  • Wire rack (if baking)
  • Small saucepan
  • Tongs

Method
 

Step 1. Prep the Wings
  1. Pat the chicken wings completely dry with paper towels. Place in a bowl and toss with olive oil, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
Step 2. Cook the Wings
  1. Bake on a wire rack over a baking sheet at 425°F for 40–45 minutes, flipping halfway, until crispy and fully cooked. Alternatively, air fry at 400°F for 20–22 minutes, shaking once.
Step 3. Make the Sauce
  1. In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the butter. Stir in lemon zest, lemon juice, lemon pepper seasoning, and black pepper. Remove from heat once combined.
Step 4. Toss the Wings
  1. Transfer hot wings to a large bowl. Pour the lemon pepper sauce over the wings and toss until evenly coated.
Step 5. Serve
  1. Serve immediately while hot and crisp.

Video

Notes

  • Dry wings thoroughly for maximum crispiness.
  • Adjust lemon juice for more or less tang.
  • Sauce lightly for crisp wings or add more for extra flavor.
  • Store leftovers refrigerated up to 3 days; reheat in the oven or air fryer.