Delight your taste buds with these irresistibly tangy and crispy lemon pepper chicken wings. Perfect for game day, parties, or just because you deserve something delicious.
Why This Recipe Works
- The combination of lemon and pepper creates a bright, flavorful crust that’s both tangy and spicy.
- Baking the wings at a high temperature ensures they’re crispy without the need for frying.
- A simple marinade infuses the wings with flavor, making every bite juicy and delicious.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs chicken wings, split at joints, tips discarded
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp lemon pepper seasoning
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tbsp lemon zest
Equipment Needed
- Large mixing bowl
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Wire rack
- Small saucepan
Instructions
Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place a wire rack on top. This setup helps the wings cook evenly and get crispy all around. In a large bowl, toss the wings with olive oil, lemon pepper seasoning, garlic powder, and salt until evenly coated.
Bake to Perfection
Arrange the wings on the wire rack in a single layer. Bake for 45-50 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the wings are golden brown and crispy. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) when checked with a meat thermometer.
Prepare the Lemon Butter Glaze
While the wings bake, melt the butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir in the lemon juice and zest. Keep warm until the wings are ready. This glaze adds an extra layer of lemony goodness.
Toss and Serve
Once the wings are done, transfer them to a large bowl. Pour the lemon butter glaze over the wings and toss to coat evenly. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Tips and Tricks
For extra crispy wings, pat them dry with paper towels before seasoning. This removes excess moisture, allowing the skin to crisp up better in the oven. If you’re short on time, you can skip the wire rack, but flipping the wings more frequently will help them crisp up. For a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix.
Recipe Variations
- Swap the lemon pepper seasoning for a BBQ rub and glaze with your favorite BBQ sauce for a smoky twist.
- Add a tablespoon of honey to the lemon butter glaze for a sweet and tangy flavor.
- For an Asian-inspired version, replace the lemon pepper with five-spice powder and glaze with a mixture of soy sauce and honey.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these wings ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the wings up to the baking step and refrigerate them overnight. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if they’re going straight from the fridge to the oven.
Can I use frozen wings? It’s best to thaw the wings completely before cooking to ensure even seasoning and cooking. Pat them dry thoroughly to remove any excess moisture.
How can I make the wings spicier? Increase the amount of black pepper in the seasoning or add cayenne pepper to taste. You can also serve them with a spicy dipping sauce on the side.
Summary
These lemon pepper chicken wings are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, offering a perfect balance of tangy, spicy, and crispy. Easy to make and even easier to devour, they’re a must-try for any wing lover.
