Crispy, zesty, and packed with flavor, these baked lemon pepper chicken wings are the ultimate game-day snack or weeknight treat.
They’re oven-baked for a healthier twist yet stay juicy inside with the perfect lemony kick.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
The wings are baked, not fried, making them lighter but still crispy.
The lemon zest and juice brighten up the flavor, while the pepper adds just the right kick.
They’re easy to prepare and pair perfectly with classic dipping sauces.
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
Chicken wings are the star—crispy on the outside and juicy inside.
Lemon juice and zest provide fresh, tangy flavor.
Lemon pepper seasoning enhances the citrusy taste with a peppery punch.
Olive oil helps crisp the wings while keeping them moist.
Honey adds a subtle sweetness to balance the seasoning (optional).
Pro Tips Before You Start
Pat the chicken wings completely dry before seasoning to maximize crispiness.
Use a wire rack over a baking sheet for even cooking and airflow.
Season lightly at first—lemon pepper blends can vary in saltiness.
Whisk the sauce just before tossing so it stays fresh and emulsified.
How to Make Baked Lemon Pepper Chicken Wings
Step 1 – Prep the chicken
Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
Pat wings dry, drizzle with olive oil, then season with garlic powder, onion powder, parsley, salt, and black pepper. Toss to coat.
Step 2 – Bake until crispy
Arrange wings in a single layer on a baking rack over a sheet pan.
Bake 20–25 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
Step 3 – Make the lemon pepper sauce
In a bowl, whisk olive oil, lemon juice, zest, lemon pepper seasoning, honey (if using), salt, and pepper.
Step 4 – Toss and coat
Transfer hot wings to a bowl, pour sauce over, and toss until evenly coated.
Step 5 – Serve and enjoy
Serve immediately with ranch or blue cheese dip and fresh veggies.
What to Serve Them With
Classic ranch or blue cheese dressing.
Crisp veggie sticks like celery, cucumber, or carrot.
Pair with fries, potato wedges, or garlic bread for a full meal.
Variations / Substitutions
Add chili flakes for a spicy lemon pepper twist.
Swap honey for maple syrup for a different sweetness.
Use chicken drumsticks or thighs if you prefer larger pieces.
Storage & Leftovers
Store leftover wings in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheat in the oven or air fryer to keep them crispy.
Avoid microwaving, which can make the skin soggy.
FAQs
Can I make these in the air fryer?
Yes, cook at 400°F for about 18–20 minutes, shaking halfway through.
Do I need to marinate the wings?
No, seasoning and baking is enough, but a short lemon-garlic marinade adds extra flavor.
Can I use frozen wings?
Yes, just thaw completely and pat dry before seasoning.
Is lemon pepper seasoning salty?
It depends on the brand—taste first and adjust added salt accordingly.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely, just bake in batches so the wings don’t overlap.
How do I make them extra crispy?
Bake on a wire rack and avoid crowding the pan.
Final Thoughts
These baked lemon pepper wings are crisp, flavorful, and always a crowd-pleaser.
They’re quick to make, healthier than fried wings, and perfect for parties, dinners, or game nights.
Baked Lemon Pepper Chicken Wings
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Pat wings dry, drizzle with olive oil, season with garlic powder, onion powder, parsley, salt, and pepper.
- Arrange wings on a baking rack over a sheet pan. Bake 20–25 minutes until crispy.
- Whisk together remaining olive oil, lemon juice, zest, lemon pepper seasoning, honey, salt, and pepper.
- Toss hot wings with sauce until coated.
- Serve immediately with dipping sauce and fresh veggies.
- See full steps with tips & photos → https://theboatshedcafe.com/baked-lemon-pepper-chicken-wings/
Notes
- For extra crispiness, flip wings halfway through baking.
- Honey adds balance to the sharp citrus flavor but can be skipped for a more classic style.
- Pair with ranch, blue cheese dip, or a cool cucumber yogurt sauce.
My name is Isabella, and this space was born from years of stirring sauces at sunset, baking cookies while the kids played on the porch, and finding comfort in a homemade meal after long, busy days. Here you’ll find delicious, reliable recipes made with simple ingredients, plus easy step-by-step photos and videos to help you cook confidently at home.