Lemon Pepper Wings: Crispy, Buttery, and Zingy in Every Bite

The Perfect Wing Just Got Better

Some foods are made to be shared, but let’s be honest—when it comes to Lemon Pepper Wings, you’ll want the whole batch to yourself. Crispy skin, juicy meat, and a buttery lemon-pepper glaze that hits all the right notes of tang, heat, and flavor? It’s the kind of magic that turns a simple wing night into a full-on flavor experience.

Whether you’re hosting game day, making a weeknight treat, or just want to upgrade your snack game, these wings bring the perfect balance of zest and comfort.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Wings:

2 lbs chicken wings (flats and drumettes)
1 tablespoon baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon olive oil (optional)

For the Lemon Pepper Butter Sauce:

4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1½ teaspoons lemon zest
2 teaspoons cracked black pepper
1 teaspoon lemon pepper seasoning
½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
Salt to taste

How to Make It

1. Dry and Prep the Wings
Start by patting the chicken wings completely dry. This is key to crispiness. Then toss them in baking powder, salt, black pepper, and olive oil if using. The baking powder dries the skin slightly, which creates that crispy golden crunch in the oven or air fryer.

2. Cook Until Golden
Bake in a preheated 425°F oven for 45–50 minutes, flipping halfway through. Or air fry at 400°F for 18–22 minutes, shaking the basket a few times. You can also deep-fry them at 350°F until they’re crisp and cooked through—about 8–10 minutes.

3. Whisk the Sauce
While your wings are cooking, melt the butter and whisk it together with lemon juice, lemon zest, cracked pepper, lemon pepper seasoning, garlic powder, and salt. The lemon zest gives it brightness, and the pepper gives it that subtle punch.

4. Toss and Serve
Once the wings are hot and crispy, toss them generously in the warm lemon pepper butter. Serve immediately with lemon wedges and a side of ranch or blue cheese if you’re feeling classic.

Tips for the Best Lemon Pepper Wings

Zest First: Always zest your lemon before juicing it for the most flavor.
Don’t Skip the Baking Powder: It’s the secret to crispy skin without deep frying.
Customize It: Want a little sweetness? Add a teaspoon of honey to the butter sauce for sweet-heat wings.
Serve Hot: These are best straight out of the oven or fryer—sizzling, saucy, and full of flavor.

Final Thoughts

Lemon Pepper Wings are the definition of elevated comfort food. They’re easy to make, packed with flavor, and totally crave-worthy. Whether served up at a party or enjoyed solo with a side of chips and a cold drink, they never disappoint.