Lemon Pepper Wings (Crispy Baked or Air Fried)

Craving something crispy, tangy, and full of flavor? Lemon Pepper Wings are exactly what you need!

These wings are perfectly seasoned with zesty lemon and a hint of black pepper. They’re crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, making each bite irresistible.

Once you try them, they’ll become your new favorite wing recipe. They’re easy to make, and the flavor combination is simply unbeatable.

Don’t wait! Grab some wings and make these Lemon Pepper Wings tonight. You won’t believe how quick and delicious they are!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy Without Frying: Get that satisfying crunch without deep frying — thanks to the magic of baking powder and high heat.
• Big Lemon Pepper Flavor: Real lemon zest and coarsely ground black pepper deliver fresh, bold flavor in every bite.
• Easy Prep, Simple Ingredients: No complicated marinades — just season, bake, and toss in buttery lemon goodness.
• Flexible Cooking Methods: Works great in the oven or air fryer — your choice.
• Great for Any Occasion: Snack, dinner, party appetizer — these wings do it all.

What You Need to Know Before You Start

Prep Time & Cook Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: About 1 hour

Servings
This recipe makes about 24 wings (drumettes and flats) — enough for 4–6 people as an appetizer or 2–3 people as a main.

Difficulty
Beginner-friendly, no frying or fancy tools required.

Required Kitchen Tools

• Large mixing bowl
• Baking sheet with wire rack (for oven method)
• Air fryer (optional, for air fry method)
• Small saucepan (for lemon pepper butter)
• Tongs or spatula
• Microplane or fine grater (for zesting lemon)
• Paper towels

Ingredients for Lemon Pepper Wings

Here’s what you’ll need to make crispy, flavorful wings from scratch. Exact measurements are in the recipe card at the end.

• Chicken Wings: Use a mix of flats and drumettes, about 2 lbs. Pat them very dry to help them crisp up.
• Baking Powder (Aluminum-Free): Helps create crispy skin when baked — do not substitute with baking soda.
• Salt: Enhances flavor and draws out moisture for a crisper finish.
• Coarsely Ground Black Pepper: Bold and punchy; the key to that signature lemon pepper flavor.
• Fresh Lemon Zest: Brightens everything. Zest before you juice the lemon.
• Unsalted Butter: The base of the lemon pepper sauce. You can use ghee for a richer taste.
• Garlic Powder (Optional): Adds a mild savory note to balance the citrus.
• Fresh Parsley (Optional Garnish): For a fresh, herbal finish.

Variations for Lemon Pepper Wings

• Air Fry Method: Swap the oven for an air fryer — directions included below for even crispier results in less time.
• Add Heat: Like a little kick? Stir in a pinch of cayenne or a few dashes of hot sauce to the lemon butter.
• Use Garlic Butter: Add minced fresh garlic to the melted butter instead of garlic powder for a more intense garlic flavor.
• Honey Lemon Pepper: Drizzle a touch of honey into the butter mixture for a sweet-and-zesty glaze.
• Dairy-Free Option: Use plant-based butter or olive oil if avoiding dairy.

How to Make Lemon Pepper Wings: Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep the Wings

• Pat the chicken wings completely dry with paper towels. This is important — dry skin = crispy skin.
• In a large bowl, toss the wings with baking powder and salt. Make sure they’re evenly coated.

2. Bake or Air Fry the Wings

Oven Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (218°C). Line a baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top. Lightly grease the rack.
2. Arrange wings in a single layer on the rack.
3. Bake for 40–45 minutes, flipping halfway through, until wings are deep golden and crisp.

Air Fryer Instructions:

1. Preheat air fryer to 400°F (204°C).
2. Place wings in a single layer in the basket (work in batches if needed).
3. Air fry for 18–22 minutes, flipping halfway, until crispy and golden brown.

3. Make the Lemon Pepper Butter

While the wings cook:

• Melt unsalted butter in a small saucepan over low heat.
• Stir in lemon zest, black pepper, and optional garlic powder.
• Remove from heat and set aside.

4. Toss and Serve

• When wings are done, transfer them to a large clean bowl.
• Pour the lemon pepper butter over the wings and toss until well coated.
• Garnish with chopped parsley if using.

How to Serve Lemon Pepper Wings

These wings are super versatile. Here are a few ways to enjoy them:

• As a Snack or Appetizer: Serve with celery sticks and ranch or blue cheese dressing.
• Game Day Favorite: Pile onto a platter alongside buffalo wings and garlic parmesan for a crowd-pleasing trio.
• Dinner Idea: Pair with a fresh green salad, roasted potatoes, or steamed veggies for a full meal.
• Taco Twist: Debone the wings and tuck the meat into warm tortillas with slaw and avocado slices.

Storing Lemon Pepper Wings

Refrigerator:

• Store leftover wings in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

To Reheat:

• For best results, reheat in the oven or air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 5–7 minutes until hot and crisp again. Avoid microwaving — it makes the skin soggy.

Freezer:

• You can freeze cooked wings for up to 2 months. Wrap tightly and reheat from frozen in the oven until hot.

Tips and Tricks for Success

• Dry the Wings Well: Moisture is the enemy of crispiness. Use plenty of paper towels to blot the wings dry before seasoning.
• Use a Wire Rack: In the oven, the rack allows air to circulate and helps wings cook evenly and crisp up.
• Fresh Zest Matters: Bottled lemon juice won’t cut it here. Fresh lemon zest brings real brightness and flavor.
• Don’t Skip the Toss: Coating the hot wings in lemon pepper butter ensures flavor sticks and seeps into the crispy skin.
• Batch in the Air Fryer: Don’t overcrowd the basket — work in batches for even cooking and maximum crisp.

Nutrition Information (per serving, about 4 wings)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	~280
Protein	20g
Fat	21g
Saturated Fat	7g
Carbohydrates	2g
Fiber	0g
Sugar	0g
Sodium	440mg

Note: Nutrition values are estimates based on standard ingredients.

Lemon Pepper Wings FAQs

Can I use frozen wings?
Yes, but thaw them completely and pat them very dry before cooking for the best texture.

Is baking powder necessary?
Yes — it helps create a crispy crust when baking. Be sure it’s aluminum-free to avoid any metallic taste.

Can I make these ahead?
You can bake or air fry the wings ahead and reheat them in the oven or air fryer. Add the lemon butter right before serving.

What’s the best dipping sauce?
Ranch or blue cheese are classic, but they’re great on their own too.

Conclusion

Lemon Pepper Wings are a simple, crowd-pleasing dish made with real ingredients and bold flavor. Whether baked or air fried, these wings are crispy, buttery, and loaded with citrusy zing — perfect for any night of the week. Keep it casual with a dipping sauce or turn it into a full meal with a side or two.