Introduction
Oven-Baked Lemon Pepper Chicken Wings are crispy, zesty, and absolutely addictive. They deliver the crunch of fried wings without the extra oil and mess, thanks to the oven-baked method. Tossed in a buttery lemon pepper glaze, these wings are tangy, peppery, and downright irresistible.
This dish is perfect for game nights, family gatherings, parties, or even a simple weeknight dinner. The combination of bright lemon, bold cracked black pepper, and golden-crispy chicken wings creates a flavor explosion that will have everyone reaching for seconds.
Why I Love This Recipe
I love this recipe because it gives me restaurant-quality wings right at home without frying. The chicken wings come out juicy on the inside and perfectly crisp on the outside, while the lemon pepper seasoning keeps them fresh and vibrant. Plus, they’re oven-baked, which makes them lighter and healthier than traditional deep-fried wings.
Another reason I adore this recipe is how versatile it is—you can serve them as an appetizer, main dish, or party snack. The lemony kick makes them stand out from classic buffalo wings, and they pair beautifully with creamy dipping sauces.
Why It’s a Must-Try Dish
- Healthier Alternative – Oven-baked, not fried, but still super crispy.
- Easy & Simple – Minimal ingredients, maximum flavor.
- Crowd-Pleaser – Perfect for parties, game days, and family dinners.
- Bold Flavors – Zesty lemon with a peppery punch.
Recipe Time & Servings
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 40–45 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Servings: 4 (about 2–3 wings per person)
- Calories: ~280 per serving (without dipping sauces)
Cuisine & Course
- Cuisine: American
- Course: Appetizer, Snack, Main Dish
Ingredients
For the Wings:
- 2 lbs (900 g) chicken wings, split into drumettes and flats
- 1 tbsp baking powder (helps crispiness)
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
For the Lemon Pepper Sauce:
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 1 ½ tbsp lemon pepper seasoning
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp lemon zest (optional, for extra freshness)
Optional Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon wedges
Simple Cooking Directions
- Preheat oven, prep wings with baking powder, salt, and pepper.
- Bake until crispy and golden.
- Toss in lemon pepper butter sauce.
- Garnish and serve hot.
Step-by-Step Recipe Preparation
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil. Place a wire rack on top (this helps wings get crispy).
Step 2: Season the Wings
- Pat chicken wings dry with paper towels.
- In a large bowl, toss wings with baking powder, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
Step 3: Bake
- Arrange wings on the wire rack in a single layer.
- Bake for 20 minutes, flip wings, then bake for another 20–25 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
- In a small bowl, mix melted butter, lemon pepper seasoning, lemon juice, and zest.
Step 5: Toss & Serve
- Once wings are done, transfer to a large bowl.
- Pour lemon pepper butter sauce over wings and toss until evenly coated.
- Garnish with parsley and lemon wedges.
How to Serve
- Serve hot with ranch or blue cheese dressing.
- Pair with celery and carrot sticks for a classic wing platter.
- Add as a side dish to burgers, sliders, or pizza night.
Additional Recipe Tips
- Dry the wings well before seasoning to maximize crispiness.
- Use a wire rack so hot air circulates evenly around the wings.
- Add extra lemon zest for a stronger citrus punch.
- If you love spice, add a pinch of cayenne or red chili flakes.
Variations
- Air Fryer Method: Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, shaking halfway.
- Garlic Lemon Pepper Wings: Add minced garlic to the butter sauce.
- Spicy Lemon Pepper Wings: Mix in cayenne pepper or hot sauce.
- Honey Lemon Pepper Wings: Stir in 1 tbsp honey for a sweet and tangy glaze.
Freezing & Storage
- Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze cooked wings (before saucing) in a freezer bag for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes until heated through. Toss with fresh sauce before serving.
Special Equipment Needed
- Baking sheet
- Wire rack (for even crispiness)
- Large mixing bowl
- Tongs for flipping and tossing
Conclusion
Oven-Baked Lemon Pepper Chicken Wings are the ultimate mix of zesty, crispy, and savory. They’re easy to make, healthier than fried wings, and perfect for sharing. Once you try these golden wings tossed in a buttery lemon pepper glaze, they’re sure to become your go-to party or dinner recipe.
Oven-Baked Lemon Pepper Chicken Wings
Description
Oven-Baked Lemon Pepper Chicken Wings are crispy, zesty, and absolutely addictive. They deliver the crunch of fried wings without the extra oil and mess, thanks to the oven-baked method. Tossed in a buttery lemon pepper glaze, these wings are tangy, peppery, and downright irresistible.
Ingredients
For the Wings:
For the Lemon Pepper Sauce:
Optional Garnish:
Instructions
-
Step 1: Preheat and Prep : Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil. Place a wire rack on top (this helps wings get crispy).
-
Step 2: Season the Wings : Pat chicken wings dry with paper towels. In a large bowl, toss wings with baking powder, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
-
Step 3: Bake : Arrange wings on the wire rack in a single layer. Bake for 20 minutes, flip wings, then bake for another 20–25 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
-
Step 4: Make the Sauce : In a small bowl, mix melted butter, lemon pepper seasoning, lemon juice, and zest.
-
Step 5: Toss & Serve : Once wings are done, transfer to a large bowl. Pour lemon pepper butter sauce over wings and toss until evenly coated. Garnish with parsley and lemon wedges.
