The Best Lemon Pepper Wet Wings

If you are a wing lover like I am, then Atlanta-Style Lemon Pepper Wet Wings are a must-try. Before I created this recipe, I had only heard about the famous lemon pepper wings in Atlanta. But once I tasted them, I finally understood all the hype. These wet lemon pepper chicken wings combine the lemony punch of classic lemon pepper seasoning with a spicy, buttery saucy coating that is so good. These wings are irresistible. Whether you are looking for the best lemon pepper wings recipe for game day or a party, these wings are guaranteed to become one of your all-time favorites.

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Why you’ll love this recipe:

• Easy Recipe: Simple recipe that require only a few steps and ingredients that can be found in your pantry.
• Bold Flavor: The lemon pepper seasoning combined with Frank’s RedHot and butter creates an incredible balance of heat, citrus and rich savory flavor.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you are making them for game day or just a weeknight craving, these wings are sure to disappear fast.

Ingredients

• Chicken Wings: Buy or cut your wings into drummettes and flats to enjoy even more of this great flavor.
• All-Purpose Flour: A light coating to help achieve a crispy golden skin once fried.
• Frank’s RedHot Sauce: a little added kick of spice to balance the lemon pepper and buttery flavor.
• Butter: Brings a rich flavor and helps the sauce to cling to your wings
• Lemon Pepper Seasoning: bold, tangy flavor that is the star of the show.
• Onion Powder and Salt: seasoning to enhance the taste and balance the flavor of your wings
• Canola Oil: high smoke point oil for frying the wings.

Substitutions

• Chicken Wings: boneless instead of bone-in.
• Frank’s RedHot: While it’s the classic, you can experiment with other vinegar-based hot sauces if you prefer, but be mindful of their heat levels and adjust.
• Butter: Margarine or a dairy-free butter substitute can work if needed, though real butter truly offers the best flavor.
• Lemon Pepper Seasoning: If you don’t have a pre-made blend, you can create your own by combining dried lemon zest (or fresh zest from 1-2 lemons, dried slightly), freshly cracked black pepper and a pinch of salt. Add a tiny bit of garlic powder if you like.
• Canola Oil: Vegetable oil, peanut oil or any other high smoke point oil will do.

What You Will Need

• Deep Fryer
• Baking Sheet with Rack
• Cooking Utensils
• Mixing Bowls

Instructions

Step 1: Season the Wings

In a large bowl, season the chicken wings with onion powder and salt. Set them aside to absorb the flavors.

Step 2: Prepare the Flour Mixture

In another bowl, mix 1 tbsp lemon pepper seasoning with the flour. Transfer the seasoned flour to a flat dish.

Step 3: Coat the Wings

Dredge each wing in the flour, ensuring even coating. Place the coated wings on a wire rack to rest.

Step 4: Fry the Wings

Preheat canola oil in a deep fryer to 375°F (190°C). Carefully add the wings in small batches and fry for 10 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Remove the wings and set them aside on a wire rack.

Step 5: Make the Lemon Pepper Wet Sauce

In a pan over medium-low heat, add Frank’s RedHot sauce and butter. Stir continuously until the sauce is fully combined and smooth.

Step 6: Coat the Wings

Add the fried wings to the pan, tossing to coat them evenly with the sauce.

Step 7: Final Seasoning & Serve

Remove the wings from the pan and place them back on a wire rack. Lightly sprinkle both sides with the remaining lemon pepper seasoning.

Serve hot and enjoy

Serving Suggestions

These Lemon Pepper Wet Wings are bursting with flavor tangy, buttery, and perfectly seasoned — making them a star on any menu. Whether you’re planning a game-day feast, a family dinner, or a casual weekend meal, here are some delicious ways to serve them:

• Game Day Favorites: Create the ultimate game-day spread by pairing these wings with crowd-pleasing appetizers like loaded nachos, mini sliders, or a hearty bowl of chili. The citrusy heat from the wings balances perfectly with savory, cheesy bites.
• Fresh and Cool Sides: Cool down the zest with classic dips like ranch or blue cheese dressing, and add a refreshing crunch with crisp celery and carrot sticks. A simple green salad, potato salad, or creamy coleslaw also complements the rich, buttery flavor of the wings.
• Comfort Food Pairings: Serve your wings with seasoned fries, sweet potato fries, or crispy tater tots for that irresistible comfort food combo. The contrast between the zesty lemon pepper glaze and golden-fried sides is simply addictive.

Hosting Tip

If you’re entertaining, keep your wings warm in a chafing dish or air fryer on low heat. Your wings will stay saucy, tender, and full of that signature lemon-pepper shine

What to Do With Leftovers

Storage & Reheating Lemon Pepper Wet Wings

Storage:

• Cool wings completely before storing.
• Place your wings in an airtight container and refrigerate for 3–4 days.
• Layer with parchment or paper towels to prevent sogginess.

Reheating:

• Oven/Toaster Oven (Best): 375°F for 15 min or until hot and crispy.
• Air Fryer: 375°F for 8 min, shake halfway through.
• Microwave: 1–2 min (quick but soft texture).

Pro Tip:
Toss reheated wings in a little melted butter and lemon pepper sauce to refresh flavor and shine.

FAQ