Description

These perfectly crispy Lemon Pepper Chicken Wings deliver a zesty lemon flavor with the ideal peppery kick. Easy to prepare with simple ingredients, they offer a crunchy exterior and juicy interior, making them a versatile and irresistible snack, appetizer, or meal addition for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken Wings

2 pounds fresh or thawed chicken wings

Seasoning Mix

1 tablespoon baking powder (not baking soda)
1 teaspoon salt
1 to 1.5 teaspoons freshly cracked black pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 tablespoon lemon zest (from about 1 large lemon)

Additional Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice (for tossing after cooking)

Instructions

Prepare the Wings: Pat the chicken wings dry thoroughly with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which is key for achieving maximum crispiness. Optionally remove wing tips or keep them on as preferred.
Mix the Seasoning: In a large mixing bowl, combine the baking powder, salt, cracked black pepper, garlic powder, lemon zest, and any optional spices you desire. Toss the wings in this dry mixture until they are evenly coated.
Add Olive Oil or Melted Butter: Drizzle the olive oil or melted butter over the seasoned wings, then toss again to ensure the seasoning sticks well and will crisp nicely during cooking.
Bake or Air Fry: Arrange the wings in a single layer on a wire rack placed over a baking sheet to allow air circulation. Bake in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for 40 to 45 minutes, flipping halfway through. Alternatively, cook in an air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for 20 to 25 minutes, shaking the basket occasionally to crisp all sides.
Add Fresh Lemon Juice: Immediately after cooking, toss the hot wings with freshly squeezed lemon juice and extra cracked black pepper for an additional burst of brightness and spice.
Serve and Enjoy: Serve your Lemon Pepper Chicken Wings with your favorite dipping sauces and garnishes. Let the wings rest for about 5 minutes before serving to redistribute juices for tender bites.

Notes

Pat Dry Thoroughly: Removing moisture is essential for the crispiest skin.
Use Baking Powder, Not Baking Soda: Baking powder raises skin pH and encourages browning without off-flavors.
Flip Halfway Through Cooking: Ensures even crisping on all sides.
Season While Hot: Toss with lemon juice right after cooking so flavor clings well.
Rest Before Serving: Rest wings 5 minutes for juicier bites.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40-45 minutes (baking) or 20-25 minutes (air frying)
Category: Appetizers
Method: Baking or Air Frying
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 5 wings (approximate)
Calories: 280
Sugar: 0.5g
Sodium: 550mg
Fat: 19g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Unsaturated Fat: 14g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 2g
Fiber: 0.5g
Protein: 22g
Cholesterol: 95mg

Keywords: Lemon Pepper Wings, Crispy Chicken Wings, Appetizers, Snack, Air Fryer Wings, Baked Chicken Wings, Gluten Free