Game Day Favorite: Zesty Lemon Pepper Wings Everyone Will Love

These Lemon Pepper Wings are everything you crave in a wing—crispy skin, juicy meat, and bold, tangy flavor. But here’s the twist: they’re made with lighter ingredients and baked (or air-fried) to golden perfection. Tossed in a bright lemon pepper seasoning blend with just a hint of buttery richness, these wings are perfect for game day, parties, or a guilt-free indulgence anytime you’re craving something savory and satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Zesty and Flavorful – A punch of fresh lemon juice and cracked black pepper delivers bold flavor.
Crispy Without Frying – Baked or air-fried for that perfect crunch—no deep fryer required.
Lightened-Up Classic – Enjoy your favorite game-day snack without the grease.
Simple to Make – A few pantry staples and under 30 minutes from prep to plate.

Ingredients

• 1½ lbs chicken wings (drumettes and flats)
• 1 tbsp olive oil or cooking spray
• 1½ tsp lemon pepper seasoning
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp onion powder
• Salt to taste
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp light butter, melted (optional for richness)
• Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Prep the Wings
Preheat oven to 425°F (218°C) or set your air fryer to 400°F (204°C). Pat the wings dry with paper towels—this helps them crisp up. Place them in a bowl and toss with olive oil or spray lightly with cooking spray.

Season Well
In a small bowl, mix together lemon pepper seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt. Sprinkle evenly over the wings and toss to coat.

Bake or Air Fry
Arrange the wings in a single layer on a wire rack over a baking sheet or in your air fryer basket. Bake for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy. In the air fryer, cook for 20–24 minutes, shaking halfway.

Finish with Lemon and Butter
Once cooked, toss the hot wings with lemon zest, lemon juice, and melted light butter (if using). Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Calories: 220
Protein: 22g
Fat: 14g
Carbohydrates: 1g
Sugar: 0g
Fiber: 0g

Tips for Success

• Dry Wings = Crispy Wings – Moisture is the enemy of crisp skin. Always pat them dry before seasoning.
• Fresh Zest is Key – Don’t skip the lemon zest—it adds an extra pop of flavor.
• Use a Rack – Elevating wings on a wire rack in the oven helps air circulate and gives you better crisping.
• Add Your Spin – Want heat? Add a pinch of cayenne or a few red pepper flakes.

Why This Recipe Works

By skipping the fryer and using bold lemon pepper seasoning with fresh lemon juice and zest, these wings deliver flavor in every bite—without drowning in grease. Baking or air frying gives them a golden, crispy skin that’s just as satisfying as the deep-fried version, but much lighter.

These Lemon Pepper Wings are everything you love about this classic snack—crispy, tangy, and finger-licking good—just made in a smarter way. They’re the kind of dish you’ll come back to again and again, whether for game night, a quick dinner, or just because you’re craving wings done right.