Name: Crispy Lemon Pepper Buffalo Wings Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 ½ lbs. organic chicken wings, disjointed; 2 Tbsps lemon pepper seasoning, homemade or store-bought; ¼ cup cornstarch; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 2 Tbsps unsalted butter; 1 ½ cups premium buffalo wing sauce; 2 Tbsps pure maple syrup or raw honey; ½ teaspoon garlic powder; ½ teaspoon dried parsley; Pinch of red pepper flakes; Lemon wedges

Jump to Recipe·4 from 64 reviews

If you love wings that deliver a perfect balance of crunchy texture and zesty bold flavor, you are in for a treat with this Crispy Lemon Pepper Buffalo Wings Recipe. These wings marry the tangy brightness of lemon pepper seasoning with the fiery kick of classic buffalo sauce, all wrapped up in an irresistibly crispy coating that makes every bite a celebration. Whether you’re hosting a game day, family gathering, or just craving a finger-licking snack, this recipe brings a flavor-packed punch that everyone will adore.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a white bowl on the right side filled with raw chicken wings, each pale pink with textures of skin and slight reddish tones near the joints. On the left side, there is a round metal pan with two gold measuring spoons resting inside, filled with a coarse, grainy breading mix that looks yellowish-beige with darker specks spread throughout. The background is a white marbled surface with subtle grey veins. The overall lighting is bright and natural, highlighting the textures of both the chicken and the breading. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step toward wing perfection. This selection is wonderfully straightforward, each item adding an essential layer to the crispy texture and vibrant flavor that make this recipe a standout.

2 ½ lbs. organic chicken wings, disjointed: Fresh, quality wings are your canvas for maximum flavor and crispiness.
2 Tbsps lemon pepper seasoning: This zesty blend is the star seasoning, bringing bright citrus notes and peppery spice.
¼ cup cornstarch: Helps create that coveted crispy crust without frying.
1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Adds smoky depth and a hint of warmth to the wings.
2 Tbsps unsalted butter: The base for your luscious, rich buffalo sauce.
1 ½ cups buffalo wing sauce, premium: Provides the classic spicy kick that buffalo wings are known for.
2 Tbsps pure maple syrup or raw honey: Balances heat with a touch of sweetness for harmony.
½ teaspoon garlic powder: Enhances the sauce with savory undertones.
½ teaspoon dried parsley: Adds a fresh herbaceous touch to your sauce.
Pinch of red pepper flakes: Optional but highly recommended for an extra fiery finish.
Lemon wedges (optional garnish): Fresh lemon wedges serve as a flavorful accompaniment and eye-catching presentation.

How to Make Crispy Lemon Pepper Buffalo Wings Recipe

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken Wings

Start by tossing your disjointed chicken wings with lemon pepper seasoning, smoked paprika, and cornstarch in a large bowl, making sure every piece is evenly coated. This simple yet crucial step kickstarts the flavor and the magic of a super crispy crust. Let your wings mingle with the spices for 10-15 minutes, but for an even deeper flavor, consider marinating them overnight in the fridge. The longer soak infuses every bite with vibrant zest and spice.

Step 2: Prepare for Baking

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit, and set up a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Place a wire rack on top and spray it liberally with non-stick spray. This setup lets air circulate around the wings, resulting in that enviable crispy finish while keeping the wings from sticking. Trust this step to give your wings the perfect texture without the mess or health concerns of frying.

Step 3: Bake the Chicken

Arrange your wings spaced about an inch apart on the wire rack so each piece bakes evenly. Pop them in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes until the wings turn golden and crackling crisp. Keep an eye on them near the end; that golden color signals it’s time to move on to the saucing stage.

The image shows 16 pieces of seasoned baked chicken arranged in four rows on a black metal cooling rack, which sits on a white marbled surface. The chicken pieces have a rough texture with a dry spice coating featuring coarse black and white specks that look like cracked pepper and seasoning. The chicken pieces vary in size and shape but are all golden brown with darker toasted spots, showing a crispy outer layer. The background is softly lit, highlighting the crunchy texture of the seasoning on the lightly browned chicken. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Step 4: Whip Together the Sauce and Toss the Wings

While baking finishes, melt unsalted butter in a medium skillet over medium-high heat, then add buffalo wing sauce, maple syrup (or honey), garlic powder, dried parsley, and red pepper flakes. Whisk everything together and bring to a gentle boil before lowering the heat to let the flavors simmer and meld for 2-3 minutes. Toss your sizzling wings in this vibrant sauce, coating every crispy nook until glossy and saucy.

Step 5: Serve Immediately

With your wings perfectly coated and steaming hot, serve them up right away. These crisply sauced beauties are best enjoyed fresh to truly savor the crispy outside and tangy, spicy inside combo.

How to Serve Crispy Lemon Pepper Buffalo Wings Recipe

Garnishes

Brighten your wings with fresh lemon wedges served on the side; the burst of citrus they provide when squeezed over the wings is the perfect complement to the bold flavors. Sprinkle additional dried parsley or cracked black pepper over the top for an inviting finish that looks as good as it tastes.

Side Dishes

Traditional sides like celery sticks and carrot slices are classic for a reason—they add crunch and cool freshness to balance the heat. Pair with creamy ranch or blue cheese dipping sauces to provide a soothing contrast that will have everyone reaching for more. For a heartier meal, consider serving alongside roasted potatoes or a crisp green salad to round out the plate.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve your wings in a large wooden board or a rustic cast-iron skillet, garnished with vibrant lemon wedges and fresh herbs. Add small bowls of varied dipping sauces like smoky chipotle mayo or tangy barbecue to encourage flavor adventures. Whether during casual gatherings or a special occasion, presentation can elevate this Crispy Lemon Pepper Buffalo Wings Recipe to a memorable centerpiece.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover wings can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. The flavors actually deepen a bit when rested overnight. Just be sure to cool them down before sealing to maintain maximum freshness and texture upon reheating.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, freezing is a great option. Arrange the baked wings in a single layer on a baking sheet and flash freeze for about 2 hours before transferring to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months, ready to thaw and reheat when the craving strikes.

Reheating

For best results, reheat your wings in a preheated oven at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for 10-15 minutes to regain their crispiness. If you’re short on time, the microwave will do, but you might lose some crunch. A quick broil for a couple of minutes post-microwave can revive some of that beloved crisp.

FAQs

Can I make this Crispy Lemon Pepper Buffalo Wings Recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! By ensuring your cornstarch is pure and your buffalo sauce is free of gluten ingredients, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. Always double-check labels on seasoning blends and sauces to be safe.

Is it possible to bake the wings instead of frying for this recipe?

Yes! This recipe is designed specifically to be baked on a wire rack, which creates a crisp exterior similar to frying but with much less oil and mess. Baking is a healthier and easier way to achieve crispy wings.

Can I adjust the heat level in this wing recipe?

You can customize the spice by varying the buffalo sauce heat level or tweaking the red pepper flakes quantity. For a milder taste, reduce or omit the red pepper flakes and choose a milder sauce. For extra heat lovers, add more or incorporate fresh chopped chilis.

What if I don’t have cornstarch; can I substitute something else?

Yes, alternatives like arrowroot powder, potato starch, or rice flour can be used to achieve a crisp coating. Each has a slightly different effect, but all help create that desirable crunchy crust without frying.

Can this recipe be doubled for larger gatherings?

Definitely! Simply multiply the ingredients accordingly and bake the wings in batches if needed, so they cook evenly and maintain their crispiness. Keeping the wings spaced out on the rack is key when scaling up.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about biting into a perfectly crispy wing that bursts with flavor from the first tangy, peppery note to the fiery buffalo finish. This Crispy Lemon Pepper Buffalo Wings Recipe is a personal favorite because it effortlessly blends simple ingredients into a complex, crave-worthy dish. I encourage you to try it out, share it with friends and family, and turn any occasion into a finger-licking feast full of joy and great taste.