Lemon Pepper Chicken Wings Recipe
Fresh, zesty, and crispy, this Lemon Pepper Chicken Wings Recipe uses real lemons, butter, black pepper, and baked chicken wings.
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Sharp knife (for trimming wings if needed)
- Baking tray
- Wire rack (optional but recommended for crispiness)
- Parchment paper or foil
- Small saucepan
- Zester or fine grater
- Tongs
- Oven (or air fryer as an alternative)
Ingredients
For the Chicken Wings:
- 2 lbs 900 g chicken wings, split into flats and drumettes
- 1 tablespoon baking powder for extra crispiness
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1½ teaspoons freshly ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
For the Lemon Pepper Sauce:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Zest of 2 fresh lemons
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1½ teaspoons freshly cracked black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt adjust to taste
- ½ teaspoon honey or sugar optional, but lovely
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Wings
- Start by patting the chicken wings completely dry using paper towels. This step matters more than people think. Dry wings equal crispy wings.
- Place the wings in a large bowl. Sprinkle baking powder, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika over them. Toss until every wing is evenly coated. The seasoning should cling nicely without clumping.
Step 2: Bake Until Crispy
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking tray with parchment paper and place a wire rack on top if you have one.
- Arrange the wings in a single layer, leaving space between each piece. Bake for 40–45 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the skin is golden and crispy.
- You’ll hear them sizzling, and the kitchen will start smelling incredible—that peppery aroma is hard to resist.
Step 3: Make the Lemon Pepper Sauce
- While the wings bake, melt butter and olive oil in a small saucepan over low heat. Add lemon zest, lemon juice, cracked black pepper, salt, and honey if using.
- Stir gently and let it warm for 2–3 minutes. Don’t boil it—you want the lemon flavor to stay fresh and bright.
Step 4: Toss and Finish
- Once the wings are done, transfer them to a large bowl. Pour the warm lemon pepper sauce over the wings and toss until evenly coated.
- Serve immediately while they’re hot and glossy.