Name: Crispy Lemon Pepper Chicken Wings
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 lbs chicken wings, split and tips removed; 2 tbsp vegetable oil; 1 tsp salt; 1 tsp black pepper; 1 tsp garlic powder; 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted; 2 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed); 1 tbsp lemon zest; 2 tbsp lemon pepper seasoning; 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

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Crispy baked (or air-fried) chicken wings tossed in a buttery, zesty lemon pepper sauce—this recipe is my go-to for game day or whenever I’m craving something bold and tangy. The wings come out golden and crispy, then get coated in a mouthwatering sauce made with real lemon juice, zest, and lemon pepper seasoning. Whether I serve them as a party appetizer or enjoy them solo, they always hit the spot.

Crispy Lemon Pepper Chicken Wings

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how incredibly simple yet flavorful these lemon pepper wings are. They bake up beautifully crispy without the need for deep frying, and the lemon pepper butter sauce adds a punch of citrusy, savory goodness. This recipe is easy to scale, air fryer-friendly, and perfect for casual gatherings or a quick weeknight indulgence.

ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 lbs chicken wings, split and tips removed
2 tbsp vegetable oil
1 tsp salt
1 tsp black pepper
1 tsp garlic powder
4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
2 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
1 tbsp lemon zest
2 tbsp lemon pepper seasoning
1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

directions

I preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or place a greased wire rack on it.
Then I pat the chicken wings dry and toss them in a bowl with vegetable oil, salt, pepper, and garlic powder until well coated.
I arrange the wings in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet and bake them for 40–45 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crispiness.
While the wings bake, I whisk together the melted butter, lemon juice, lemon zest, and lemon pepper seasoning in a large mixing bowl.
Once the wings are crispy and golden, I toss them immediately in the lemon pepper butter sauce until they’re evenly coated.
I garnish with fresh parsley and serve them hot with ranch or blue cheese dressing on the side.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 4 servings. Prep time is 10 minutes, cook time is around 45 minutes, making the total time about 55 minutes. Each serving includes approximately 5–6 wings, depending on their size.

Variations

Air fryer option: I cook the wings at 380°F for about 25 minutes, shaking them halfway through for even cooking.
Extra crispy method: I let the seasoned wings rest in the fridge, uncovered, for 30 minutes before baking.
Spicy twist: I sometimes add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes to the lemon butter sauce for a little kick.
Honey lemon pepper: Mixing in a tablespoon of honey to the sauce adds a sweet, sticky layer that I love when I’m in the mood for something sweet and savory.
Grilled version: On warmer days, I grill the wings for a smoky flavor before tossing them in the lemon pepper butter.

storage/reheating

If I have leftovers, I store the wings in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I pop them in a 375°F oven or air fryer for 5–7 minutes until they’re hot and crispy again. Microwaving works in a pinch, but I find it makes the skin less crispy.

FAQs

How do I get my wings extra crispy in the oven?

I make sure to pat them dry thoroughly and bake them on a wire rack to allow hot air to circulate. Refrigerating the wings uncovered before baking also helps dry out the skin.

Can I use frozen wings?

Yes, but I always thaw them completely and pat them dry before seasoning. Excess moisture will prevent crispiness.

What’s the best lemon pepper seasoning?

I like to use a high-quality blend with real lemon zest. Some brands are saltier than others, so I adjust the added salt accordingly.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, I substitute the butter with a vegan or dairy-free alternative and still get a delicious lemon pepper sauce.

Is lemon juice from a bottle okay to use?

I prefer fresh lemon juice for the best flavor. Bottled can work in a pinch, but it doesn’t have the same brightness.

Conclusion

These crispy lemon pepper chicken wings are everything I want in a snack—crunchy, juicy, buttery, and tangy. Whether baked or air-fried, they’re always crowd-pleasers and surprisingly easy to make. I keep this recipe in regular rotation, and once you try it, I think you will too.