Description
This Lemon Pepper Wings recipe offers a zesty and flavorful twist on classic chicken wings. With a perfect balance of tangy lemon, spicy black pepper, and a hint of sweetness from honey, these wings are baked and broiled to crispy perfection, then tossed in a buttery lemon sauce. Perfect as an appetizer or snack, these wings are easy to prepare in under 30 minutes and sure to please any crowd.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken Wings
- 2 pounds chicken wings
Seasoning & Sauce
- 2 tablespoons canola oil (or your preferred high-heat cooking oil)
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 3 ½ teaspoons lemon pepper seasoning, divided
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice, plus additional lemon wedges for serving
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- Chopped green onions, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare wings: Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C) with racks positioned in the center and upper third spots. Line a baking sheet with foil for easy cleanup. Pat the chicken wings dry with paper towels, trim off wing tips, and separate the drumettes from the flats. In a large bowl, toss the wings with canola oil, honey, and 2 teaspoons of lemon pepper seasoning until evenly coated.
- Bake the wings: Arrange the seasoned wings in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake them in the preheated oven for 12 to 18 minutes, or until the wings are cooked through and juices run clear.
- Broil for crispiness: Move the baking sheet to the upper third rack and set the oven to broil. Broil the wings for 2 to 3 minutes, watching carefully, until the wings turn crispy and golden brown. Be vigilant to prevent burning.
- Prepare lemon pepper sauce and toss wings: While the wings are baking, melt the unsalted butter in a microwave-safe bowl. In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, lemon juice, black pepper, and the remaining 1 ½ teaspoons of lemon pepper seasoning. Once the wings are done, toss them in this lemon pepper butter mixture until fully coated.
- Serve: Transfer the tossed wings to a serving plate. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve hot with lemon wedges on the side for extra zest.
Notes
- For crispier wings, ensure they are patted very dry before tossing with oil and seasoning.
- Lemon pepper seasoning can be homemade or store-bought; adjust quantity to taste.
- Use fresh lemon juice for the best bright flavor.
- Watch the wings closely during broiling to prevent burning.
- These wings pair well with ranch or blue cheese dipping sauces.
