Lemon Pepper Air Fryer Chicken Wings
Savor the zesty, crispy delight of Lemon Pepper Air Fryer Chicken Wings! These wings are bursting with tangy lemon and bold pepper flavors, perfectly air-fried for a healthier, golden crunch. Ideal for game days or casual dinners, they’re quick, easy, and irresistibly delicious, leaving everyone craving more.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
These Lemon Pepper Air Fryer Chicken Wings are a game-changer for wing lovers! The air fryer delivers a crispy texture without the guilt of deep frying, while the lemon-pepper seasoning creates a vibrant, tangy flavor that dances on your taste buds. They’re incredibly easy to prepare, requiring minimal cleanup, and are ready in under 30 minutes, making them perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings. Whether you’re hosting a party, cheering for your team, or just craving a flavorful snack, these wings are sure to impress with their bold taste and satisfying crunch. Plus, they’re customizable to suit your spice level or dietary preferences!
Recipe Tips and Tricks:
- Pat Dry: Ensure wings are thoroughly patted dry with paper towels to achieve maximum crispiness.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Arrange wings in a single layer in the air fryer basket to allow proper air circulation.
- Shake the Basket: Shake or flip wings halfway through cooking for even browning.
- Check Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to confirm wings reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Rest Before Tossing: Let wings rest for 2-3 minutes after cooking before tossing in sauce to retain crispiness.
- Fresh Lemon Zest: Grate fresh lemon zest for a brighter, more intense flavor.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the seasoning mix before coating to balance lemon and pepper to your preference.
Lemon Pepper Air Fryer Chicken Wings
Crispy Lemon Pepper Air Fryer Chicken Wings with zesty, bold flavors—perfectly healthy, quick, and delicious for any occasion!
Ingredients
- 2 lbs chicken wings, split into flats and drumettes
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp lemon pepper seasoning
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp baking powder (aluminum-free)
- 1 fresh lemon (zested and juiced)
- 2 tbsp butter, melted
- Salt, to taste
Instructions
- Prep the Wings: Pat chicken wings dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, ensuring crispy results. Place in a large bowl.
- Season the Wings: Drizzle wings with olive oil, then sprinkle with lemon pepper seasoning, garlic powder, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Toss to coat evenly.
- Preheat Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 400°F and preheat for 3 minutes to ensure even cooking.
- Arrange Wings: Place wings in a single layer in the air fryer basket, avoiding overcrowding. Cook in batches if needed.
- Air Fry First Side: Cook wings for 10 minutes, then shake the basket or flip wings for even browning.
- Finish Cooking: Cook for another 8-10 minutes, until golden and internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Prepare Lemon Butter: In a small bowl, mix melted butter, lemon juice, and zest for a tangy coating.
- Toss Wings: Transfer cooked wings to a clean bowl, pour lemon butter over, and toss gently to coat.
- Serve Immediately: Plate wings with lemon wedges for extra zing. Pair with ranch or blue cheese dip!
- Clean Up Easy: Let the air fryer cool, then wipe the basket with a damp cloth for quick cleanup.
Notes
- Double-check lemon pepper seasoning for salt content to avoid over-salting.
- For extra crispiness, refrigerate seasoned wings uncovered for 30 minutes before cooking to dry the skin further.
- Serve with celery sticks and dip for a classic wing experience.
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 861Total Fat 66gSaturated Fat 24gTrans Fat 1gUnsaturated Fat 36gCholesterol 207mgSodium 2578mgCarbohydrates 27gFiber 2gSugar 1gProtein 40g
The recipes and nutritional information on Yum Tonight are for informational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized dietary advice.
Ingredients Notes:
- Chicken Wings (2 lbs): Opt for fresh or thawed wings, split into flats and drumettes for even cooking.
- Olive Oil (1 tbsp): Helps the seasoning adhere and promotes crispiness; avocado oil is a great alternative.
- Lemon Pepper Seasoning (2 tbsp): Choose a high-quality blend for bold flavor; homemade mixes allow control over salt content.
- Garlic Powder (1 tsp): Adds savory depth; fresh minced garlic can burn in the air fryer, so stick with powder.
- Baking Powder (1 tsp): A secret for extra-crispy skin by drawing out moisture; ensure it’s aluminum-free.
- Fresh Lemon (1): Zest and juice enhance brightness; bottled juice lacks the same vibrancy.
- Butter (2 tbsp, melted): Creates a smooth, rich coating for the seasoning; use ghee for a dairy-free option.
- Salt (to taste): Add sparingly, as lemon pepper seasoning often contains salt.
Variations and Substitutions:
- Spice it Up: Add cayenne or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Herb Twist: Mix in dried thyme or rosemary for an earthy flavor.
- Honey Lemon: Drizzle with honey before serving for a sweet-tangy glaze.
- Dairy-Free: Swap butter for olive oil or vegan margarine.
- Low-Sodium: Use a salt-free lemon pepper blend and adjust salt manually.
- Gluten-Free: Naturally gluten-free, but double-check your seasoning blend for hidden additives.
- Whole Wings: Use whole wings if preferred, but increase cooking time slightly.
- Oven Option: Bake at 400°F for 40-45 minutes, flipping halfway, if no air fryer is available.
Storage Options:
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 5-7 minutes to restore crispiness.
- Freezer: Freeze cooked wings in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Avoid Microwaving: Microwaving makes wings soggy; always reheat using an air fryer or oven.
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