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Crispy Air Fryer Lemon Pepper Wings Recipe with Easy Zesty Butter Glaze

air fryer lemon pepper wings - featured image
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Crispy air fryer lemon pepper wings coated in a zesty butter glaze, delivering a perfect balance of tangy brightness and rich buttery goodness with an addictive crunch. Ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe is ideal for quick snacks, game day, or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds chicken wings, split into flats and drumettes (fresh or thawed)
  • 2 tablespoons lemon pepper seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder (not baking soda)
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon hot sauce (optional)

Instructions

  1. Pat chicken wings dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture (approx. 5 minutes).
  2. In a large bowl, combine baking powder, lemon pepper seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Add the wings and toss thoroughly to coat every piece evenly.
  3. Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (193°C) and let it warm up for about 3 minutes.
  4. Arrange wings in the air fryer basket in a single layer without overlapping. Cook in batches if needed to avoid steaming.
  5. Air fry the wings for 25-28 minutes, flipping halfway through (around 12 minutes) to ensure even cooking. Wings should be golden brown and crispy when done.
  6. While the wings cook, melt the butter in a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl. Stir in fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and hot sauce (if using). Keep warm.
  7. Transfer cooked wings to a large bowl and pour the zesty butter glaze over them. Toss gently until every wing is coated.
  8. Sprinkle chopped parsley over the wings for garnish and serve immediately for best crunch and flavor.

Notes

Pat wings dry thoroughly to ensure crispiness. Use baking powder, not baking soda, for a golden crust. Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket to allow proper air circulation. Flip wings halfway through cooking for even crisping. Toss wings in glaze immediately after cooking to prevent sogginess. For dairy-free version, substitute butter with coconut oil or vegan butter. For gluten-free, ensure seasonings and baking powder are certified gluten-free.

Nutrition

Keywords: air fryer wings, lemon pepper wings, crispy wings, zesty butter glaze, quick snack, game day recipe, easy wings

Find it online: https://emmaoven.com/crispy-air-fryer-lemon-pepper-wings-recipe-with-easy-zesty-butter-glaze/