Zesty Lemon Pepper Wings from WingStreet feature tender, juicy chicken wings coated in a vibrant lemon pepper seasoning, delivering a tangy and spicy flavor with a crispy, golden exterior.
Equipments
- Mixing bowls
- Baking sheet or deep fryer
- Wire rack
- Tongs
- Measuring spoons
- Large spoon or spatula
- Paper towels
- Oven or fryer
- Saucepan (if making lemon pepper sauce or butter mixture)
- Basting brush (optional)
Ingredients
- 2 lbs (900g) chicken wings
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 2 teaspoons cracked black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
Ensure your chicken wings are fully thawed and patted dry before applying the lemon pepper seasoning to achieve a crispy, golden exterior. Use fresh lemon zest and juice for the most vibrant tangy flavor, as dried lemon zest will not provide the same intensity. Adjust the level of cracked black pepper and cayenne pepper according to your desired spice tolerance, especially if you prefer a milder taste. Olive oil and melted butter both help the seasoning adhere while contributing to the juicy texture, so choose based on your flavor preference. You can recreate the Zesty Lemon Pepper Wings from WingStreet's copycat menu by following the seasoning blend and cooking methods for authentic tangy, spicy wings.
Instructions
- Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) or heat deep fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- Pat chicken wings dry with paper towels.
- In a large mixing bowl, toss wings with olive oil or melted butter.
- In a small bowl, mix lemon zest, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, paprika, and cayenne pepper.
- Sprinkle seasoning mixture over wings and toss until evenly coated.
- Arrange wings on a wire rack set over a baking sheet, or prepare fryer basket.
- Bake for 35–45 minutes (flipping halfway) until crispy and golden, or fry for 8–10 minutes until cooked through.
- In a saucepan (if desired), combine melted butter and fresh lemon juice.
- Transfer cooked wings to a clean bowl, drizzle with lemon juice (or butter-lemon mixture), and toss to coat.
- Serve hot, optionally garnished with extra lemon zest or chopped parsley.
Substitution
Zesty Lemon Pepper Wings from WingStreet offer a copycat experience with crisp, juicy wings coated in a tangy lemon pepper seasoning. If fresh lemon zest or juice is unavailable, bottled lemon juice and dried lemon peel can be substituted but may slightly alter the freshness of the flavor. Olive oil can be replaced with melted butter for a richer taste, or a neutral oil if preferred for a lighter finish. When using a deep fryer, monitor the cooking time closely to ensure a crispy exterior without drying out the wings. Your best results come from patting the wings dry before seasoning and cooking to maximize crispiness.
Tips
Ensure chicken wings are thoroughly patted dry before seasoning to achieve maximum crispiness when baked or fried. Use a wire rack placed over a baking sheet to allow hot air circulation, preventing soggy bottoms during oven cooking. When tossing wings with the lemon juice or butter-lemon mixture, do so gently to maintain the crispy coating. Remember to use a thermometer or check internal temperature to confirm wings reach at least 165degF (74degC) for safe consumption.
Nutritions
Zesty Lemon Pepper Wings offer a high-protein option with approximately 40 grams of protein per 2-pound serving, essential for muscle repair and growth. The use of olive oil or butter adds healthy fats, contributing to about 20 grams of fat, while also enhancing flavor and texture. Lemon zest and juice provide vitamin C, supporting immune health, and the spices contribute antioxidants with minimal added calories. Your wings deliver a flavorful balance of nutrients suitable for a satisfying and nutritious meal.
Storage
Store your Zesty Lemon Pepper Wings in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent moisture loss. Refrigerate the wings within two hours of cooking and consume them within 3 to 4 days for optimal taste and safety. Reheat in an oven or air fryer at 350degF (175degC) until warm and crispy to restore their texture and flavor.
Variation or Alternatives
For a variation, swap olive oil with melted coconut oil to add a subtle tropical note that complements the citrus. You can replace cayenne pepper with smoked paprika for a milder, smoky flavor profile. Consider marinating the wings in buttermilk for 1-2 hours before seasoning to enhance tenderness and juiciness. If you prefer a saucier wing, prepare a lemon pepper butter sauce by whisking melted butter, lemon juice, garlic, and a pinch of honey, then toss your wings before serving.
Allergies
Zesty Lemon Pepper Wings contain common allergens such as chicken and spices which may cause reactions in sensitive individuals. The seasoning blend includes garlic powder and onion powder, known allergens for some people with food sensitivities. Be aware that the use of olive oil or butter may also trigger allergies related to certain nuts or dairy, so checking ingredient sources is crucial for Your safety.
Why this recipe?
Zesty Lemon Pepper Wings from WingStreet offer a perfect balance of tangy citrus and bold pepper spices that tantalize your taste buds. The crispy texture combined with the zesty flavor makes these wings a standout choice among wing lovers. Making this copycat recipe at home allows you to enjoy restaurant-quality wings customized to your preferred level of zest and heat. Your kitchen becomes the ultimate wing destination, saving money while delivering fresh, flavorful bites every time.