Lemon Pepper Chicken Wings

Fall in love with the irresistible taste of these lemon pepper chicken wings. They are juicy, flavorful, and simply addictive.

Whether you're hosting a party or simply craving a delicious snack, these tasty chicken wings are the way to go. They are versatile enough to be served as an appetizer or can take center stage as a mouthwatering main dish.

The meat is coated in a combination of butter and lemon with aromatic pepper to create a burst of flavors that is both refreshing and addictive. It's sure to become one of your favorite chicken wing recipes.

Ingredients

With just a few essential ingredients, you can whip up a batch of these delectable wings in no time.

Here's what you'll need to make the recipe:

• chicken wings
• butter
• fresh lemon juice
• lemon pepper seasoning
• minced garlic
• fresh chopped parsley
• salt and pepper

Scroll down to the recipe card for quantities used.

Instructions

Ready to make lemon pepper wings? Once you've gathered the ingredients, just follow these simple step-by-step directions.

Place the air-fried or baked wings into the lemon pepper sauce and toss to coat well. Serve garnished with fresh chopped parsley.

Hint: Make the lemon pepper butter sauce in a large bowl so you'll have enough room to add the wings and toss.

Variations

There are so many ways you can change up the recipe. Here are just a few ideas you can try:

• Honey - Add a hint of honey. The sweetness of the honey complements the tanginess of the lemon. Simply squeeze a little honey in with the lemon juice.
• Spice - Add some heat with chili flakes or hot sauce. The spicy and tangy flavors create a flavor kick to take it up a notch.
• Bake - If you don't have an air fryer, you can bake them on a wire rack set over a baking sheet instead of simply placing them directly on the pan or tray. This allows air to circulate all around the wings, promoting even browning and ensuring they remain crispy throughout. Baked chicken wings just take a little longer to cook.

You can even air fry chicken wings from frozen.

Tips

• Use fresh lemon zest instead of pre-packaged lemon pepper seasoning. By using fresh zest, you can control the intensity of the lemon flavor and avoid any artificial additives that may be present in store-bought seasonings. Simply grate some lemon peel directly onto your chicken wings along with freshly ground black pepper for a zingy and aromatic twist.
• Season well: Season the chicken wings with your favorite spices and herbs. You can use a dry rub or marinade them for a few hours (or even overnight) to enhance the flavors.
• Preheat the air fryer: Always preheat your air fryer before cooking the chicken wings. This ensures that the hot air starts circulating immediately and promotes even cooking.
• Don't overcrowd: Arrange the chicken wings in a single layer, leaving space between each piece. Overcrowding the basket can lead to uneven cooking and less crispy results.
• Shake or flip the wings: Midway through the cooking process, shake the air fryer basket or flip the wings to ensure even browning on all sides.
• Use a cooking spray: Use a light cooking spray to help crisp up the skin and prevent sticking.
• Check for doneness: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the thickest part of the chicken wing. The safe internal temperature for chicken is 165°F (74°C).

Serving suggestions

To elevate the flavors of your lemon pepper wings, pair them with creamy dips or fresh salads. The combination of zesty lemon pepper seasoning with cool and creamy accompaniments creates a delightful contrast that will leave your taste buds wanting more.

Honey mustard or teriyaki sauce are popular dipping choices. For something spicier, try a buffalo wing sauce. For added freshness, serve carrot sticks, celery stalks, or bell pepper strips on the side.

Storage

Once cooled, place the air-fried or baked lemon pepper wings in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag. Remove as much air as possible from the container or bag before sealing it.

For best results, you can also wrap each wing individually in foil before placing them in the container or bag. This will help prevent them from sticking together and preserve their flavor and texture. Store the wings in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

When you're ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat the wings in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through. This will help crisp up the skin and warm them up without drying out the meat.

Related Recipes

Looking for a few more tasty appetizer recipes to try? Here are some our of favorites:

• Lil smokies with bacon will be the star of any gathering.
• Carne asada quesadillas will satisfy a craving for Mexican flavors.
• Panko popcorn chicken is crispy and flavorful.
• Air fryer shrimp skewers are quick, easy, and absolutely irresistible.
• Bacon-wrapped pineapple bites combine two delicious flavors.

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