Name: Lemon Pepper Chicken Wings
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: European
Ingredients: 1500g chicken wings (mid joint portions); Juice of 1 lemon; ½ tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp dried parsley; 1 tsp dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste; To serve: Lemon zest, extra oregano or parsley (dried or fresh), lemon wedges

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Lemon pepper chicken wings are the kind of dish that deliver maximum flavour with minimal fuss. With their tangy citrus kick, herbaceous depth, and satisfyingly crispy skin, these wings are everything you could want in a comfort food classic — yet they still feel light, fresh, and just a bit indulgent. Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or just craving something bold and homemade, lemon pepper chicken wings are a go-to recipe that won’t disappoint.

Why You’ll Fall in Love with This Dish

There’s a reason lemon pepper chicken wings have become a staple in kitchens and takeaway menus alike — they’re simple to make, full of personality, and endlessly versatile. The lemon brings a clean, sharp note that cuts through the richness of the chicken, while black pepper and herbs give warmth and complexity.

This dish is:

Comforting yet fresh – citrus keeps it light, while crispy skin satisfies the soul.
Perfect for all occasions – from weeknight dinners to party platters.
Cost-effective and fuss-free – you likely have most of the ingredients already.
Easy for beginners, rewarding for pros – no deep frying, no mess, just great flavour.

It’s a budget-friendly recipe that feels anything but basic — and it easily adapts to your cooking style or pantry staples.

Ingredient Breakdown: What Makes These Wings Shine

Each component in this recipe serves a clear purpose, building layers of flavour and texture.

Chicken wings – Using mid-joint portions means you get the ideal bite-size pieces with just the right meat-to-skin ratio. The skin crisps up beautifully in the oven, while the inside stays juicy.
Fresh lemon juice – Brings brightness and a touch of acidity that cuts through the richness of the chicken. It also acts as a quick, natural marinade to tenderise the meat.
Garlic powder – Adds depth and umami without overpowering. Powder works better here than fresh garlic, which could burn during baking.
Dried parsley and dried oregano – These pantry staples offer an earthy, slightly peppery herbal profile that works beautifully with lemon. Oregano especially gives a Mediterranean edge.
Salt and pepper – Essential seasoning. Black pepper not only seasons the wings but also defines that classic “lemon pepper” punch.
Lemon zest (for finishing) – This is where the magic really happens. Zest brings all the aromatic oils from the lemon rind, delivering a vibrant citrus note in every bite.
Fresh herbs and lemon wedges (to serve) – Optional but great for presentation. They make the dish feel more polished and fresh.

How to Cook Lemon Pepper Chicken Wings

Making these wings is easy, but smart technique gets you that golden, crispy skin. First, pat the wings dry — this is crucial for texture. Toss them in a bowl with lemon juice, herbs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Let them marinate for a few hours if you can, though they’re still tasty even without resting.

Arrange them on a wire rack over a foil-lined tray, and slow-roast at 130°C (265°F) to start rendering the fat. After 30 minutes, crank the heat or turn on the grill for about 10–15 minutes to crisp them up. Once they’re sizzling and golden, finish with lemon zest, cracked pepper, and a sprinkle of dried herbs. That’s it — lemon pepper chicken wings done right.

Ingredient Swaps and Custom Tweaks

This recipe is flexible and adapts well to different kitchens and tastes.

Boneless option? Try it with chicken tenders or thighs — just adjust cooking time accordingly.

Fresh herbs instead of dried? Go for it. Just use a little more — they’re less concentrated but bring brighter, fresher flavour.

No garlic powder? A touch of minced fresh garlic will work, but keep it subtle to avoid burning.

Want some heat? Add chilli flakes or cayenne to the finishing mix for a spicy twist on classic lemon pepper chicken wings.

Serving Ideas: What Goes With Lemon Pepper Chicken Wings

These wings are the star of the show, but the right sides can make the meal sing. You can serve lemon pepper chicken wings solo as a snack or appetiser, or turn them into a proper meal with a few simple additions.

Serve over a rice pilaf or lemony couscous for a more filling lunch or dinner.
Pair with a green salad dressed with vinaigrette, or roasted seasonal vegetables.
Offer crusty bread on the side to soak up any extra seasoning.
Add dipping sauces like garlic yoghurt, herbed mayo, or ranch for guests to play with.
For drinks, a cold lager or a crisp white wine works brilliantly with the zesty flavour profile.

A platter of hot wings with lemon wedges, scattered herbs, and dipping sauces is the kind of thing that disappears quickly — so make plenty!

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If you have any leftovers (and that’s a big if), they’re easy to store. Place cooled wings in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, avoid the microwave — it makes the skin soggy. Instead, pop them back in a hot oven or air fryer for a few minutes until crispy again.

You can also freeze cooked wings. Wrap them tightly or store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Reheat directly from frozen in a 180°C (355°F) oven until heated through and crisp.