Name: Crispy Air Fryer Lemon Pepper Wings
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 24 min
Total time: 70 min
Ingredients: 1 ½ lbs chicken wings; ¼ cup cornstarch; 2 tablespoons lemon pepper seasoning; 1 tablespoon melted butter; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon salt

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Last Updated on February 8, 2026 by Barbara

There is a special kind of excitement that arrives with the first kickoff, and in my kitchen, it always brings the bright zesty taste of a lemon pepper wing. While buffalo wings get all the hype, these are the ones that keep people huddled around the platter until every last bit of cracked pepper is gone.

For this recipe, I have moved away from traditional deep frying, opting instead for the air fryer. It has become my go-to method because it delivers that unmistakable crunch without the use of heavy oils or the kitchen cleanup. They aren’t just reserved for the sidelines, I often make them the centerpiece of a soulful weeknight dinner when I want something that doesn’t keep me standing over the stove all evening. Let’s look at how make the best Lemon Pepper Wings.

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Table of Contents

Watch Me Make Crispy Air Fryer Lemon Pepper Wings (Video Tutorial)

Ingredients

Chicken Wings: Chicken wings are the main ingredient. For the best result use fresh wings.
Cornstarch: Cornstarch is used to create a crispy texture on the wings.
Lemon Pepper Seasoning: The lemon pepper seasoning give the wings the zesty, lemony taste we love.
Butter: The butter coats the wings allowing the lemon pepper seasoning to adhere to the wings.
Onion Powder: Enhances the depth of flavor with a subtle, savory sweetness.
Garlic Powder: Infuses the wings with a bold, aromatic flavor that pairs well with lemon and pepper.
Paprika: Paprika adds a mild, smoky warmth and color to the wings.
Salt: Salt adds the familiar flavor that balances the other seasoning.

What You Will Need

Instructions for Crispy Air Fryer Lemon Pepper Wings

Step 1: Prepare the Seasoning:

In a small bowl, combine the onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, and salt. Mix the ingredients thoroughly to create a well-balanced seasoning blend.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

Make sure to pat the chicken wings dry with a paper towel before seasoning them. This helps ensure they get crispy in the air fryer. Sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly over the chicken wings. Use your hands to rub the seasoning into the wings, ensuring that each wing is well coated.

Step 3: Coat with Cornstarch:

Adding the cornstarch to crispy air fryer lemon pepper wings

Sprinkle the cornstarch over the seasoned chicken wings. Toss the wings to coat them evenly. The cornstarch will help give the wings a crispy exterior when air fried.

Step 4: Air Fry the Wings:

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the wings in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they are not overcrowded. You may need to cook them in batches for the best results. Set the air fryer to 24 minutes of cooking time.

After 12 minutes, pause the machine and flip the wings to ensure even cooking. Continue frying for the remaining 12 minutes or until the wings are crispy and golden brown.

Step 5: Finish and Serve:

Transfer the wings to a bowl. Drizzle the melted butter over the wings and toss to coat them evenly. Sprinkle the lemon pepper seasoning over the wings and toss until the wings are fully coated.

What to Eat With Crispy Air Fryer Lemon Pepper Wings

Finding the right companion for a plate of lemon pepper wings is all about playing with contrast. I like to surround them with sides that either lean into that zest or provide a cool place for the palate to land. It transforms a simple plate of wings into a complete and balanced meal.

I have found that few things complement lemon better than the classics. Here are my favorite ways to round out the plate:

The Creamy Classics: I often reach for a scoop of southern Potato salad or a chilled macaroni salad. The rich dressing acts as a beautiful anchor for the pepper and citrus.
The Crunch Factor: If I’m in the mood for something easy, a handful of salty potato chips or a vinegar based cucumber salad or black bean salad adds a satisfying texture.
The Hearty Handfuls: When I want a dinner that really sticks to the soul, I lean toward roasted potatoes or waffle fries. Their salty, seasoned ridges are practically made for catching those stray bits of cracked black pepper.

Whether you are looking for something light or a side that’s a bit more indulgent, these pairings ensure your wings never have to fly solo.

What to Do With Leftovers Lemon Pepper Wings

Storing leftover lemon pepper wings correctly ensures the wings stay fresh and flavorful. If you plan to eat your wings within a couple of days, refrigeration is the best option. Place the leftover wings in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap to prevent moisture loss and odor absorption. In the refrigerator, the wings will stay for up to 3 days. Before reheating, allow them to sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes to ensure even heating. To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the wings for 10-15 minutes, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Alternatively, you can use an air fryer for 5-7 minutes at 375°F (190°C) for a crispier result.

For longer storage, freezing is perfect. To freeze, place the lemon pepper wings in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze them for 2 hours. Once frozen, transfer the wings into a freezer-safe bag or airtight container, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Store the wings in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to reheat, thaw the wings in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until they reach a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). If using an air fryer, reheat at 375°F (190°C) for about 8-10 minutes, ensuring they are crispy and heated throughout.

Other Great Recipes

Air Fryer Chicken Wings – for the best crispy wings you must give this recipe a try.
Crispy Honey Cajun Wings – crispy, spicy and sweet all in one bite.
Garlic Parmesan Wings – perfect appetizer to kick off your game day feast
Smothered Chicken Wings – this is a tasty comfort food treat that you will simply love.

Soul Food Cooking 101 — Classic Soul Food Recipes: Preserving the Legacy of Authentic Southern Cooking.

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