Grilled Lemon Pepper Wings

Grilled Lemon Pepper Wings are a zesty, smoky, and irresistibly crispy take on the classic wing recipe. Bursting with citrusy brightness and peppery kick, these wings are perfect for game day, BBQs, or any casual gathering. Grilled to perfection and coated in a buttery lemon pepper glaze, they deliver bold flavor in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Tangy, peppery flavor with a hint of smokiness
• Perfectly crispy skin without deep frying
• Easy to make with just a few ingredients
• Great for parties, game nights, or weeknight dinners
• Can be made on a gas or charcoal grill
• Naturally gluten-free
• Ready in under 30 minutes
• Works well as an appetizer or main dish
• Customizable heat level
• Big flavor with minimal effort

ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Chicken wings (split into flats and drumettes)
• Olive oil
• Lemon pepper seasoning
• Garlic powder
• Salt (if needed, depending on seasoning)
• Unsalted butter
• Lemon zest
• Fresh lemon juice
• Cracked black pepper

directions

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 375–400°F).
2. Pat the chicken wings dry with paper towels to help them crisp up.
3. In a large bowl, toss the wings with olive oil, lemon pepper seasoning, garlic powder, and salt if needed.
4. Arrange the wings on the grill in a single layer. Close the lid and cook for 20–25 minutes, turning every 5–6 minutes, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp should reach 165°F).
5. While wings are grilling, melt butter in a small saucepan. Stir in lemon zest, lemon juice, and a pinch of black pepper.
6. Once wings are done, transfer them to a large bowl and toss with the lemon butter mixture.
7. Serve hot with extra lemon wedges on the side.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4–6
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20–25 minutes
Total time: 30–35 minutes

Variations

• Add a dash of cayenne pepper for heat
• Use a dry rub only and skip the butter for a lighter version
• Marinate wings in lemon juice and spices for extra flavor
• Finish with chopped parsley or green onions for a fresh touch
• Try air-frying the wings before tossing them in lemon pepper sauce

storage/reheating

Store leftover wings in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in an oven at 375°F for 10–12 minutes or in an air fryer for 5–7 minutes to regain crispiness. Avoid microwaving as it may make the skin soggy.

FAQs

Can I use frozen wings?

Yes, just make sure to fully thaw and pat them dry before grilling.

What if I don’t have lemon pepper seasoning?

You can make your own with dried lemon zest, black pepper, and salt.

Can I bake these wings instead of grilling?

Yes, bake at 400°F for 40–45 minutes, flipping halfway through.

How do I get crispy skin on grilled wings?

Dry the wings thoroughly before seasoning and grill over medium-high heat, turning often.

Is lemon pepper spicy?

No, it’s more tangy and zesty than spicy, though you can add heat if desired.

Can I make them ahead of time?

You can grill them ahead and reheat before serving, but they’re best fresh off the grill.

What should I serve with lemon pepper wings?

Celery sticks, ranch or blue cheese dip, coleslaw, or grilled corn are great options.

Can I use a gas grill?

Yes, a gas grill works perfectly for this recipe.

Do I need to flip the wings while grilling?

Yes, flip every 5–6 minutes for even cooking and crispiness.

Can I make this recipe keto?

Yes, it’s naturally low in carbs and fits into a keto-friendly diet.

Conclusion

Grilled Lemon Pepper Wings are a simple yet flavor-packed dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With their crispy grilled texture and bold, tangy seasoning, they’ll quickly become a go-to favorite. Whether you’re hosting a party or just craving something savory, these wings deliver big taste with minimal fuss.

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