Crispy Lemon Pepper Buffalo Wings Recipe – Easy & Spicy

Craving something crispy, tangy, and irresistibly spicy? Lemon pepper buffalo wings combine the bold flavors of classic buffalo sauce with the zesty bite of lemon pepper seasoning, delivering a dish that is perfect for game day, BBQs, or any casual dinner. These wings are easy to make, and you can choose to bake, fry, or use an air fryer for the ideal crispy texture. This guide will help you create mouth-watering lemon pepper buffalo wings that are sure to impress!

If you are curious about how to achieve perfect crispiness in your wings, you may also enjoy learning more about mastering crispy fried foods from this resource on crispy chicken wing dry rub. For those who enjoy a great dipping sauce, don’t miss out on this best blue cheese dip recipe—the perfect companion to your buffalo wings.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Lemon Pepper Buffalo Wings

Here are the ingredients you need to create the perfect lemon pepper buffalo wings:

Chicken Wings

• 2 ½ lbs. chicken wings: Fresh, organic wings disjointed into flats and drumettes for even cooking.

Seasoning for Wings

• 2 tablespoons lemon pepper seasoning: Use either store-bought or make your own with lemon zest and black pepper.
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Adds a smoky, earthy depth of flavor to the wings.
• ¼ cup cornstarch: Creates crispiness when combined with flour or as a gluten-free alternative (arrowroot starch works well too).

Buffalo Sauce Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Adds richness to the buffalo sauce. If you want a dairy-free version, use vegan butter.
• 1 ½ cups buffalo sauce: Adjust the heat level to your preference by using mild, hot, or extra hot.
• 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup or raw honey: Balances the spiciness with a subtle sweetness.
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a rich, savory flavor.
• ½ teaspoon dried parsley: Provides a bit of herbal brightness.
• Pinch of red pepper flakes: Optional, for those who love extra heat.

Optional Garnishes

• Lemon wedges: Fresh lemon juice adds an extra burst of tanginess.
• Chopped parsley: A pop of color and freshness to garnish the wings.

How to Make Lemon Pepper Buffalo Wings

Step 1: Prepare and Marinate the Chicken Wings

• Clean and Prep: Begin by washing your chicken wings thoroughly with lemon and vinegar to ensure they are clean.
• Pat Dry and Marinate: Dry the wings thoroughly, as moisture prevents them from becoming crispy. In a large bowl, mix the wings with:
  • 2 tablespoons lemon pepper seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ¼ cup cornstarch
  Let the wings marinate for 10-15 minutes, or ideally overnight in the refrigerator, to allow the flavors to infuse.

Step 2: Cooking Methods to Choose From

Baking Method

1. Preheat the Oven: Set the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Prepare the Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place a wire rack on top. Generously spray the rack with oil to prevent the wings from sticking.
3. Bake the Wings: Arrange the wings in a single layer, ensuring they don’t overlap. Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
4. Broil for Extra Crispiness: Set the oven to broil for an additional 5 minutes to ensure a crispy finish.

Air Frying Method

• Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat the air fryer to 360°F (180°C).
• Cook Wings in Batches: Arrange the wings in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Spray them lightly with oil. Cook for 10-15 minutes, shaking halfway through for even cooking.

Frying Method

• Heat Oil: Heat the oil to 350°F (175°C) in a deep fryer or heavy-bottomed skillet.
• Fry the Wings: Fry the wings for 10-12 minutes until they turn golden and crispy.

Step 3: Prepare the Buffalo Sauce

• In a skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat.
• Stir in:
  • 1 ½ cups buffalo sauce
  • 2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon dried parsley
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
  Let the sauce come to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes.

Step 4: Coat the Wings in Sauce

• Add the cooked wings to the skillet and toss them in the buffalo sauce until they are well-coated.
• Serve immediately with your favorite sides and dipping sauces.

Tips for Achieving the Crispiest Wings

• Thoroughly Dry the Wings: Excess moisture prevents crisping, so ensure your wings are completely dry before seasoning.
• Use a Wire Rack: This helps the heat circulate around each wing, ensuring even crispiness.
• Broil at the End: Broil for a few minutes after baking to achieve a crispy, golden exterior.
• Quick Sauce Toss: Coat wings in sauce right before serving to prevent them from getting soggy.

Serving Suggestions for Lemon Pepper Buffalo Wings

These wings are fantastic on their own, but they pair wonderfully with various sides and dips:

Dipping Sauces

• Creamy Lemon Garlic Dressing: Adds a refreshing contrast.
• Classic Ranch Sauce: A cooling dip that complements the spiciness.
• Honey Mustard: A sweet, tangy option.
• Blue Cheese Dressing: Perfect for fans of bold flavors.

For more ideas, explore delicious dip recipes for wings, which can also be used to pair with pizza night.

Side Dishes

• Fries: Seasoned crinkle-cut fries or crispiest garlic herb fries are great accompaniments.
• Mac and Cheese: Try pairing the wings with southern baked mac and cheese for a comforting meal.
• Biscuits: Serve with garlic herb biscuits to complement the bold flavors of the wings.

If you’re looking for a fun twist, consider serving these wings alongside Mexican street corn pasta salad for an unexpected but tasty pairing.

Homemade Lemon Pepper Seasoning Recipe

To make your own lemon pepper seasoning:

• 3 tablespoons lemon zest: Freshly grated for bright flavor.
• 1 tablespoon coarse black pepper: Adds a sharp kick.
• 1 teaspoon sea salt: Balances out the tartness of the lemon.

Mix the ingredients well and store them in an airtight container. Fresh seasoning will enhance the flavor more than store-bought alternatives.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What Are the Ingredients in Buffalo Wild Wings Lemon Pepper Sauce?

Typically, Buffalo Wild Wings’ lemon pepper sauce includes:

• Butter: For a rich, smooth base.
• Hot Sauce: Provides the heat.
• Lemon Zest and Juice: Adds the characteristic lemony tang.
• Garlic and Onion Powder: Adds savory complexity.

2. What Are Lemon Pepper Wings Made Of?

These wings consist of:

• Chicken wings (flats and drumettes)
• Lemon pepper seasoning
• Buffalo sauce mixed with butter, honey, and other seasonings for extra flavor.

3. Are Wingstop Lemon Pepper Wings Wet or Dry?

Wingstop’s lemon pepper wings are typically a dry rub version, providing a crispy texture with zesty, salty notes.

4. Should You Bake or Fry Buffalo Wings?

• Baking: A healthier option while still maintaining flavor.
• Frying: Provides the classic crunch.
• Air Frying: Offers a balance between healthiness and crispiness.

Additional Recipe Variations to Try

Want to get creative with your wings?

• Garlic Parmesan Wings: Toss wings in butter, garlic, and Parmesan for a rich twist.
• Jamaican Jerk Wings: Marinate in jerk seasoning for a smoky, spicy flavor.
• Buffalo Cauliflower Wings: Replace chicken with cauliflower for a vegetarian version.

For more spicy options, check out Cholula wing sauce recipe, which adds a tangy kick that you’ll love.

Conclusion

Lemon pepper buffalo wings offer the ultimate combination of spicy, tangy, and savory flavors. Whether you bake, fry, or air fry, you can be confident that these wings will be a hit. Follow the tips provided to get wings that are juicy on the inside and crispy on the outside every time.

Feel free to experiment with different side dishes, dipping sauces, and variations to make this recipe your own. Whether you’re a wing enthusiast or trying this for the first time, these lemon pepper buffalo wings are bound to impress everyone around the table.

Now it’s your turn—get your ingredients ready and try out this flavorful dish today!

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