If you’re craving a dish that is bursting with bright, zesty flavor and irresistible crispiness, look no further than this Lemon Pepper Wings Recipe. These wings strike the perfect balance between tangy lemon, bold pepper, and a touch of buttery sweetness, making them an absolute crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re hosting game day, a casual get-together, or simply treating yourself to a delicious snack, these wings deliver punchy flavor and satisfying crunch in every bite. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will quickly become your go-to for wing night.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind this Lemon Pepper Wings Recipe lies in the simplicity and quality of its ingredients. Each item plays a crucial role: the chicken wings provide juicy meat and crispy skin, while lemon pepper seasoning injects the dish with its trademark citrusy spice. The honey adds a subtle sweetness that rounds out the flavors, and the fresh lemon juice brightens everything beautifully.
- 2 pounds chicken wings: Fresh or thawed wings with tips trimmed for even cooking and easier eating.
- 2 tablespoons canola oil: A neutral high-heat oil that helps crisp up the wings perfectly.
- 1 tablespoon honey: Adds a mild sweetness that complements the tang of the lemon.
- 3 ½ teaspoons lemon pepper seasoning: Divided to infuse both marinade and sauce with bold citrus-pepper flavor.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Melts into a rich sauce that coats the wings tenderly.
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice: Brings vibrant tartness that balances richness and heat.
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper: Enhances the peppery kick already present in the seasoning.
- Chopped green onions: Adds a fresh, mild oniony crunch for garnish and color.
- Lemon wedges: For serving, providing an extra burst of fresh citrus for dipping or squeezing over the wings.
How to Make Lemon Pepper Wings Recipe
Step 1: Prep and Bake the Wings
Start by preheating your oven to 450°F (232°C) and lining a baking sheet with foil for easy cleanup. Pat the wings dry with paper towels to ensure they crisp up well. Trim off the wing tips and separate the drumettes from the flats, as this helps with even cooking. Toss the wings in a bowl with canola oil, honey, and 2 teaspoons of lemon pepper seasoning until they’re evenly coated. Spread them out in a single layer on the baking sheet to allow maximum airflow and crispness. Bake for 12 to 18 minutes until the wings are just cooked through.
Step 2: Broil for Perfect Crispiness
Once the wings have baked, move the pan to the upper third rack of the oven for broiling. Broil the wings for 2 to 3 minutes, watching carefully so they turn golden and crispy without burning. This step is key to achieving that signature crackly skin that makes wings so addictive.
Step 3: Make and Toss with the Lemon Pepper Sauce
While the wings are baking, melt the butter in a microwave-safe bowl or on the stove. Once melted, toss the hot wings in a large bowl with the butter, freshly squeezed lemon juice, ground black pepper, and the remaining 1 ½ teaspoons of lemon pepper seasoning. This final toss infuses every bite with luscious flavor and ensures the wings are evenly coated with the zesty sauce.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
Transfer your lemon pepper wings to a serving plate and sprinkle generously with chopped green onions. Arrange lemon wedges around the plate so everyone can add an extra squeeze of citrus if they like. Serve the wings hot, and get ready for all the compliments because these are seriously delicious!
How to Serve Lemon Pepper Wings Recipe
Garnishes
Adding chopped green onions not only enhances the visual appeal with a pop of bright green but also adds a subtle onion flavor that balances the tartness of the lemon. For a bit of color and extra zest, a light sprinkle of freshly grated lemon zest over the wings before serving can take this dish to the next level.
Side Dishes
Perfectly complement your Lemon Pepper Wings Recipe with crunchy celery sticks and creamy blue cheese or ranch dressing for dipping. Crispy French fries or a simple coleslaw also work beautifully to round out the meal, offering contrast in texture and cool counterpoints to the wings’ bold flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For a party spread, arrange the wings on a large rustic wooden board with small bowls of assorted dipping sauces, lemon wedges, and fresh herbs scattered around. For a more casual vibe, stack them in a big bowl lined with parchment paper while encouraging guests to grab handfuls with their fingers. Either way, these wings make a fantastic centerpiece.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers from your Lemon Pepper Wings Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making them a perfect snack or lunch on the following days.
Freezing
To freeze your wings, let them cool completely and then place them in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty zip-top bag. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months. For best quality, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat wings in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving, as it tends to make the skin soggy and the wings less enjoyable.
FAQs
Can I use frozen wings for this Lemon Pepper Wings Recipe?
Absolutely! Just thaw them fully before preparing to ensure even cooking and the best crispy skin. You can thaw overnight in the refrigerator or use the defrost function on your microwave.
Is it possible to make these wings spicy?
Yes! You can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a drizzle of hot sauce to the lemon pepper sauce for an extra kick. Adjust the heat level to suit your preference.
Can I grill these wings instead of baking?
Definitely! Grilling adds a lovely smoky flavor. Just marinate and cook them on a preheated grill over medium-high heat, turning occasionally until fully cooked and crispy.
What type of lemon pepper seasoning works best?
Look for a seasoning blend with real lemon zest and cracked black pepper. Freshly ground blends or homemade mixes will always taste brighter and more aromatic than pre-packaged powders.
How do I know when the wings are fully cooked?
The wings should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). They’ll also look golden brown and crispy on the outside, and the juices should run clear when pierced with a knife or fork.
Final Thoughts
This Lemon Pepper Wings Recipe is a shining example of how simple ingredients and straightforward cooking techniques can deliver an unforgettable flavor experience. Whether you’re making them for a family dinner, a weekend gathering, or just because you’re craving something tasty, these wings bring a perfect harmony of citrus, heat, and buttery goodness. Trust me, once you make this recipe, it will be a beloved staple that you’ll return to time and time again. So heat up your oven and get ready to enjoy some seriously sensational wings!
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Lemon Pepper Wings Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Total Time: 28 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Lemon Pepper Wings recipe delivers crispy, oven-baked chicken wings coated in a zesty lemon pepper sauce with a hint of honey sweetness. Perfectly broiled for a golden finish, these wings are garnished with fresh green onions and served with lemon wedges for an extra citrusy kick, making them an irresistible appetizer or party snack.
Ingredients
Chicken Wings
- 2 pounds chicken wings, tips trimmed and drumettes separated from flats
- 2 tablespoons canola oil (or preferred high-heat cooking oil)
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 3 ½ teaspoons lemon pepper seasoning, divided
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
Sauce & Garnish
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- Chopped green onions, for garnish
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions
- Prep and Bake: Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C) with racks positioned in the center and upper third sections. Line a baking sheet with foil for easy cleanup. Pat the chicken wings dry thoroughly, trim off the wing tips, and separate the drumettes from the flats. In a mixing bowl, toss the wings with canola oil, honey, and 2 teaspoons of lemon pepper seasoning until evenly coated. Arrange the wings in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake Wings: Place the baking sheet on the center rack and bake the wings for 12-18 minutes or until they are completely cooked through, turning once if desired for even cooking.
- Broil Wings: Move the pan to the upper third rack of the oven and broil the wings for 2-3 minutes. Keep a close eye to ensure they become crispy and golden brown without burning.
- Make Sauce: While the wings are baking, melt the unsalted butter in a microwave-safe bowl. Once the wings are done baking and broiling, transfer them to a large bowl. Add the melted butter, freshly squeezed lemon juice, ground black pepper, and the remaining 1 ½ teaspoons of lemon pepper seasoning. Toss everything thoroughly to coat the wings evenly with the flavorful sauce.
- Serve: Transfer the sauced wings to a serving plate, sprinkle with chopped green onions for a fresh garnish, and serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side for extra citrus zest.
Notes
- Patting the wings dry before coating helps achieve crispy skin when baked and broiled.
- Keep a close watch while broiling to prevent the wings from burning due to their proximity to the heat source.
- You can adjust the amount of lemon pepper seasoning to suit your taste preference.
- If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix.
