Lemon Pepper Wings are perfect for Football season. As the sports season began I look forward to all the delicious tailgate party food and lemon pepper wings are on the top of my list. My lemon pepper wings recipe is perfect because it is air fried and very easy to make. And these wings are not just good for game day, you can prepare them as an appetizer or as a main course to your meal. Walk with me as I share this tasty and simple recipe for Crispy Lemon Pepper Air-Fryer Wings.
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Watch Video Tutorial for Crispy Air Fryer Lemon Pepper Wings
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:
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) for a few minutes.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 again until the wings are fully coated.
What to Eat With Crispy Air Fryer Lemon Pepper Wings
Lemon Pepper Wings are great as an appetizer or a main course. Lemon pepper wings are versatile and pairs well with a variety of side dishes and complementary flavors. Potato salad and potato chips goes well and enhance the citrusy flavor of the wings, while classic sides like celery and carrot sticks with ranch or blue cheese dressing offer a cooling contrast. For heartier pairings, you can’t go wrong with waffle fries or roasted potatoes, which balance the lemon with their savory, salty goodness. If you’re craving something more refreshing, macaroni salad, black bean salad or perhaps a cucumber salad adds a crunchy, tangy element to the meal.
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 good for up to 3-4 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 1-2 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.