Air-Fryer Lemon-Pepper Chicken Wings

If you’re craving a dish that’s crispy, tangy, and bursting with flavor, look no further than these Air-Fryer Lemon-Pepper Chicken Wings. Using just a handful of simple ingredients, this recipe transforms ordinary chicken wings into a zesty, peppery delight with a golden, crunchy exterior. The air fryer makes it all possible by cooking the wings to perfection without the need for excessive oil, making cleanup a breeze and the result incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re preparing a game day snack, a quick weeknight dinner, or a crowd-pleaser for your next gathering, these wings are guaranteed to impress.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

There’s something magical about the combination of lemon and black pepper when paired with crispy chicken wings. The bright, citrusy notes of lemon zest and juice cut through the richness of the wings, while the black pepper adds a sharp, aromatic kick. Unlike traditional deep-fried wings, these are cooked in the air fryer, which means you get that coveted crispy skin without excessive oil or grease. Plus, the seasoning blend includes garlic powder and onion powder, enhancing the wings with layers of savory goodness that make every bite unforgettable.

If you love experimenting with wings, you might also enjoy trying Spicy Peri Peri Chicken Wings for a fiery twist. But for a fresh, vibrant flavor profile, these Air-Fryer Lemon-Pepper Chicken Wings are your go-to recipe. They’re quick to prepare, require minimal ingredients, and bake up beautifully in the air fryer—making them a healthier alternative without sacrificing taste.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds chicken wings
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest (freshly grated)
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
• 1 teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground for best flavor)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• Fresh parsley for garnish (chopped)

How To Make Air-Fryer Lemon-Pepper Chicken Wings

Step 1: Prep the Wings

Start by patting your chicken wings dry with paper towels. Removing excess moisture is crucial for achieving that perfect crispy skin. If your wings are whole, you can separate them into drumettes and flats for easier cooking and eating.

Step 2: Make the Lemon-Pepper Marinade

In a large mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt. Whisk everything together until the mixture is well blended and fragrant.

Step 3: Coat the Wings

Add the chicken wings to the bowl and toss them gently but thoroughly to ensure every piece is evenly coated with the lemon-pepper marinade. Let the wings marinate for at least 15 minutes to absorb all those zesty flavors.

Step 4: Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C) for about 5 minutes. Preheating helps the wings cook evenly and develop that coveted crispy texture.

Step 5: Air Fry the Wings

Place the wings in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding to allow hot air to circulate freely around the wings. Cook for 25-30 minutes, shaking the basket or flipping the wings halfway through to ensure even cooking and browning.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Once cooked, transfer the wings to a serving plate. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top for a pop of color and freshness. Serve immediately while hot and crispy.

Expert Tips

• For extra crispiness, pat the wings dry twice before tossing them in the marinade.
• If you prefer a more intense lemon flavor, add an extra teaspoon of lemon zest or a splash more lemon juice to the marinade.
• Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket; work in batches if necessary to ensure each wing crisps up evenly.
• Use freshly ground black pepper for a sharper, more vibrant taste compared to pre-ground pepper.
• Let the wings rest for a few minutes after cooking—they will firm up and lock in their juiciness.
• Pair your wings with a cooling dip like ranch or a yogurt-based sauce to balance the peppery punch.

Variations and Customizations

• Spicy Kick: Add ½ teaspoon of cayenne pepper or red chili flakes to the marinade for a spicy twist.
• Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh thyme or rosemary with the parsley for an herbal aroma.
• Garlic Butter Wings: After air frying, toss the wings in melted garlic butter for a rich, indulgent finish—similar to the flavors found in some Garlic Butter Chicken Wings recipes.
• Honey Lemon Glaze: Drizzle honey over the wings right after cooking for a sweet and tangy glaze.
• Low Sodium: Reduce the salt to ½ teaspoon or use a salt substitute if you’re watching your sodium intake.

How to Store Leftovers

If you have any leftover Air-Fryer Lemon-Pepper Chicken Wings, cool them completely before storing. Place the wings in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them back in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes to restore their crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the skin soggy. You can also freeze cooked wings for up to 2 months—just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQ

Can I use frozen chicken wings for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen wings, but it’s best to thaw them fully before marinating and air frying. This ensures even cooking and better texture.

What if I don’t have an air fryer?

You can bake these wings in a conventional oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 40-45 minutes, flipping halfway through to achieve crispiness. However, the air fryer does yield the best results in terms of texture.

How do I make these wings less spicy?

This recipe isn’t very spicy by default. If you want to tone down the pepper flavor even further, reduce the black pepper to ½ teaspoon or omit it entirely.

Can I double this recipe for a larger crowd?

Absolutely! Just make sure to cook the wings in batches so they have enough space in the air fryer basket to crisp properly.

Conclusion

Air-Fryer Lemon-Pepper Chicken Wings are a fantastic way to enjoy a flavorful, crispy snack or meal without the mess and excess oil of traditional frying. With a bright lemony punch and a perfect peppery seasoning, these wings are a fresh take on a classic favorite. Whether you’re serving them up for a party or a casual dinner, this recipe delivers on taste, ease, and texture every time. Give it a try and discover why these wings are quickly becoming a favorite in kitchens everywhere.

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