Zesty Lemon Pepper Chicken Wings

Name: Zesty Lemon Pepper Chicken Wings
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 lbs chicken wings; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Zest of 2 lemons; Juice of 1 lemon; 2 teaspoons black pepper; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: World Cuisine Recipes

I absolutely love making Zesty Lemon Pepper Chicken Wings for special gatherings or simply for a cozy night in. The bright, tangy flavors of lemon combined with the sharpness of black pepper create an unforgettable taste that keeps everyone coming back for more. The crispy skin and juicy meat are complemented perfectly by the refreshing citrus zing, making these wings a hit with family and friends alike. Whether you’re hosting a game day party or just treating yourself, this recipe will elevate your chicken wing experience to a whole new level.

Created by

Emma Johnson

Last updated on 2026-01-17T15:56:28.493Z

When I first made Zesty Lemon Pepper Chicken Wings, the combination of flavors took me by surprise. The balance of zesty lemon and bold pepper was something I’d never tried before, and it quickly became a family favorite. I learned that marinating the wings for just a short period allows the flavors to penetrate deeply without overpowering the chicken.

One of my favorite tips is to bake the wings on a wire rack over a baking sheet. This technique allows for even cooking and helps achieve that perfect crispy skin I crave. Trust me, once you give this method a try, you'll never go back to frying wings!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Bright lemon flavor that invigorates your taste buds
Perfectly crispy skin that adds a delightful crunch
Easy to make and perfect for any occasion
Tantalizing balance of zest and heat

      

Mastering the Marinade

The marinade is where the magic of flavor begins. Combining olive oil with fresh lemon zest and juice adds a brilliant brightness while ensuring the wings remain moist throughout the cooking process. Olive oil serves as a carrier for the spices, helping them adhere to the chicken. Allow the wings to marinate for at least 30 minutes—up to 2 hours in the fridge—for maximum flavor infusion. If you're short on time, even a 15-minute soak will enhance the taste significantly.

Be mindful of balancing the acidity of the lemon juice with the seasoning. The black pepper and garlic powder add depth, while salt enhances the overall flavor. If you enjoy a bolder taste, feel free to amp up the amount of black pepper or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra kick. This flexibility allows you to customize the recipe to suit your palate.

Achieving Perfect Crispiness

To achieve that perfectly crispy skin, arranging the wings on a wire rack is essential. This setup allows hot air to circulate around the wings, promoting even cooking and crisping. Baking them at 425°F (220°C) is crucial for achieving golden brown skin without frying. During the baking process, turn the wings halfway through to ensure even crunchiness on both sides—this typically takes about 15-20 minutes per side.

If you notice the wings aren't crispy enough by the end of the baking time, broil them for an additional 2-4 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning. The skin should be bubbly and golden, signaling that they're ready to munch on. A little patience during this step will yield wings that have a satisfying crunch with every bite.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Zesty Lemon Pepper Chicken Wings:

Ingredients

2 lbs chicken wings
2 tablespoons olive oil
Zest of 2 lemons
Juice of 1 lemon
2 teaspoons black pepper
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Make sure to keep the wings well-coated for maximum flavor!

Instructions

Follow these steps to cook your wings to perfection:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and adjust the oven rack to the middle position.

Prepare Chicken Wings

In a large bowl, combine olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, black pepper, salt, garlic powder, and onion powder. Add the chicken wings and toss well to coat.

Bake the Wings

Place the wings on a wire rack over a baking sheet. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the wings are crispy and golden brown, turning them halfway through.

Garnish and Serve

Remove the wings from the oven and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Serve these zesty wings with your favorite dipping sauce for an added treat!

Pro Tips

For extra crunch, you can broil the wings for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. Just keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers (which is unlikely, given their flavorful allure), store the wings in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To maintain their texture, reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. This method helps retain the crispiness that microwaving would otherwise compromise, ensuring a satisfying experience all over again.

For long-term storage, consider freezing the wings. Arrange the cooled wings in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, where they can be kept for up to three months. To reheat from frozen, bake directly at 400°F (200°C) for about 25-30 minutes, then check for doneness.

Serving Suggestions

These Zesty Lemon Pepper Chicken Wings are versatile and pair well with a variety of dips and sides. For a classic touch, serve with a side of ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping. A fresh cucumber and tomato salad also balances the wings' richness, adding a crunchy, refreshing element to your meal.

For an extra layer of flavor, consider creating a zesty dipping sauce using plain Greek yogurt mixed with lemon juice and a sprinkle of dill. This pairs excellently with the zesty profile of the wings and provides a creamy contrast. Serve alongside potato wedges or celery sticks for a complete snacking experience, whether for a game day gathering or a festive dinner.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken wings?

Yes, just make sure to thaw them completely before marinating and cooking.

→ What dipping sauces pair well with these wings?

Ranch, blue cheese dressing, or even a spicy sriracha sauce complement the flavors nicely.

→ Can I grill the wings instead of baking them?

Absolutely! Grilling the wings will add a smoky flavor that pairs beautifully with the lemon pepper.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover wings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.