1. Prepare the Chicken Wings
Start by patting the chicken wings dry with paper towels. Removing excess moisture helps the skin become crispy. Place the wings in a large bowl.
2. Season the Wings
In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Drizzle this mixture over the chicken wings, tossing to coat evenly. The olive oil helps the seasoning stick and promotes a crispy texture.
3. Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C) for about 3-5 minutes. Preheating ensures the wings cook evenly and get that perfect crispy texture.
4. Cook the Wings
Arrange the chicken wings in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they’re not overcrowded. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook the wings in batches.
Cook the wings at 380°F (193°C) for 20-25 minutes, shaking the basket or flipping the wings halfway through the cooking time. The wings should be golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Adjust the cooking time as needed based on the size of the wings and your specific air fryer model.
5. Prepare the Lemon Pepper Seasoning
While the wings are cooking, prepare the lemon pepper seasoning. In a small bowl, mix together the lemon zest, lemon juice, cracked black pepper, salt, and dried parsley if using.
6. Toss the Wings
Once the wings are done cooking, remove them from the air fryer and place them in a large bowl. Immediately toss the hot wings with the lemon pepper seasoning mixture, ensuring they are well-coated.
7. Serve and Enjoy
Transfer the seasoned wings to a serving platter. Garnish with additional lemon zest or parsley if desired. Serve hot and enjoy the crispy, zesty delight!
Tips for Perfect Lemon Pepper Chicken Wings
- Dry the Wings Thoroughly: Make sure to pat the wings dry before seasoning. This step is crucial for achieving a crispy exterior.
- Avoid Overcrowding: Arrange the wings in a single layer in the air fryer basket for even cooking. Overcrowding can lead to uneven crispiness.
- Adjust Seasoning: Feel free to adjust the amount of lemon pepper seasoning to suit your taste. For a more intense lemon flavor, add extra lemon zest or juice.
Serving Suggestions
These Lemon Pepper Chicken Wings are versatile and can be paired with a variety of sides. Here are some ideas:
- Dipping Sauces: Serve with ranch dressing, blue cheese dressing, or a spicy buffalo sauce for added flavor.
- Vegetable Sides: Complement with celery sticks, carrot sticks, or a fresh cucumber salad.
- Fries: Pair with crispy French fries or sweet potato fries for a hearty meal.
- Slaw: A tangy coleslaw adds a refreshing crunch that balances the richness of the wings.
Conclusion
Air Fryer Lemon Pepper Chicken Wings are the ultimate combination of crispy, juicy, and zesty. With a flavorful lemon pepper seasoning that brings out the best in each wing, this recipe is a perfect choice for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just enjoying a casual meal, these wings will be a hit. Enjoy the simplicity and deliciousness of air fryer cooking, and savor every crispy, flavorful bite!
Tried this recipe? Share your thoughts in the comments below! Let me know how your wings turned out and if you made any delicious variations. Enjoy your flavorful feast!