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Delicious Lemon Pepper Wings are featured in this mouthwatering image.

Best Lemon Pepper Wings

These lemon pepper wings are the crispiest and most flavorful you'll ever taste. The key is a dry brine, baking on a wire rack, and a homemade lemon pepper sauce with fresh ingredients for a perfect balance of tangy, savory, and peppery flavors.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 600
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 lbs chicken wings about 12 wings
  • 1/4 cup cornstarch
  • 1 tbsp baking powder aluminum-free
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper optional
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 2 tbsp lemon zest from about 2 large lemons
  • 2 tbsp black peppercorns, coarsely cracked
  • 1 tbsp dried parsley
  • 1 tsp honey optional
  • Salt to taste

Equipment

  • Large bowl
  • Paper towels
  • Wire rack
  • Baking sheet
  • Small saucepan
  • Pepper mill
  • Whisk
  • Tongs

Method
 

  1. Pat the chicken wings completely dry with paper towels.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the cornstarch, baking powder, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper (if using).
  3. Add the wings and toss until evenly coated.
  4. Place the wings on a wire rack set over a baking sheet and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to 24 hours, uncovered.
  5. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
  6. Arrange the wings on a wire rack set over a baking sheet.
  7. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the wings are cooked through and the skin is golden brown and crispy, flipping halfway through.
  8. While the wings are baking, prepare the sauce.
  9. In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
  10. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
  11. Stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, cracked black peppercorns, parsley, and honey (if using).
  12. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
  13. Season with salt to taste.
  14. Once the wings are cooked, transfer them to a large bowl.
  15. Pour the lemon pepper sauce over the wings and toss to coat evenly.
  16. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

For extra crispy skin, refrigerate the wings uncovered for a longer period (up to 24 hours). Use freshly cracked black peppercorns for the best flavor. Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your preferred level of spiciness. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer for best results.