Get ready for a flavor explosion with my Fried Lemon Pepper Chicken Wings recipe! Seasoned with a zesty blend of lemon pepper and fried to golden perfection, these wings are an easy-to-make, protein-packed treat. With just a few simple ingredients, they’re a flavorful snack or appetizer that’s sure to be a hit at any gathering!
Table of Contents
Why I Love This Recipe
As an fan of flavorful, easy-to-make dishes, my Fried Lemon Pepper Chicken Wings hold a special place in my recipe collection! My recipe offers a delightful twist on classic fried chicken, where I draw inspiration by fusing the flavors from my Japanese-style Tebasaki Fried Chicken Wings and Lemon Pepper Shrimp Cauliflower Fried Rice. By combining a simple deep-frying technique with the bold flavors of lemon pepper seasoning, these wings boast a crispy exterior and a burst of zesty, peppery goodness with every bite that will knock your socks off!
Whether served as a side dish, appetizer, or main course, they’re perfect for anyone seeking a straightforward, yet satisfying fried chicken experience at home. Don’t wait—dive into this delectable dish now and experience the joy of homemade, lemony goodness!
Ingredients
Ingredients
- Chicken Wings – drumettes or wings, fresh or frozen.
- Salt – sea salt preferred.
- Black Pepper – ground.
- Lemon Pepper – a blend of lemon, pepper and salt seasoning available at most supermarkets in the spice aisle.
- Olive Oil – extra virgin olive oil or olive oil of choice.
- Neutral Oil – use your preferred frying oil.
🍗 Wings Note
It’s important not to confuse Drumettes with drumsticks in this recipe. Drumsticks, being larger and part of the chicken’s leg, won’t be suitable due to their size.
Directions
Step 1 Season chicken wings with salt and black pepper.
🧂 Seasoning Pro Tip
For even seasoning, try sprinkling from a Higher Above
💡 Coating Pro Tip
For those who prefer a coating on their wings, consider sprinkling Potato Starch or Corn Starch onto the wings before frying. This simple technique adds a light and crispy texture to the wings and gives the sauce something to soak into.
Step 2 Preheat oil into a deep frying vessel of choice. Once your oil is preheated, fry your chicken in the heated oil for 3 minutes per side. Then, transfer the fried chicken to a drying rack.
🍳 Deep Frying Pro Tip
For optimal results when deep frying, ensure that the Oil is Preheated to a temperature between 350°F to 375°F. Additionally, Avoid Overcrowding the pan to maintain the oil temperature within the optimal range throughout the frying process.
🌡 Internal Temperature Check
For safe consumption, ensure the chicken wings reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
💡 Extra Crispy Pro Tip
For an extra crispy texture, consider Double Frying the chicken. Once it’s rested for 1-2 minutes, fry it again to further enhance the crispiness of the exterior coating.
Step 3 In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil and lemon pepper. Toss wings in coating then serve immediately.
Pairing Recommendations
Pair my chicken wings with a crisp green salad tossed in Caesar Salad Dressing or a side of Broccoli Caesar Salad for a refreshing contrast. Alternatively, serve fresh vegetables with Sour Cream and Onion Dip for a satisfying snack or appetizer. These accompaniments complement the savory wings perfectly!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh chicken wings instead of frozen?
Absolutely! You can use both fresh and frozen chicken wings for this recipe with equally delicious results.
Can I bake these wings instead of frying them?
Absolutely! You can bake these wings for a healthier option. Follow the same seasoning instructions and place them on a baking tray lined with a baking mat. Bake in the center of the oven at 500°F for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through. For extra crispiness, move the baking tray up one slot and broil for 2-3 minutes per side at 500°F.
What dipping sauces pair well with these lemon pepper wings?
While these lemon pepper wings are delicious on their own, they pair exceptionally well with ranch dressing or a side of hot sauce for dipping. The creamy tanginess of Ranch complements the zesty lemon pepper flavor, while the heat from hot sauce adds an extra kick for those who enjoy a bit of spice.
Can I marinate the wings in lemon pepper seasoning before frying?
While you could marinate the wings in lemon pepper seasoning beforehand, it's actually best to season them after frying. Deep frying the wings with the seasoning already applied may result in some of the flavor being lost during the cooking process.
Storage Tips
To store leftovers, use an airtight container and refrigerate them. They will remain fresh for 5-7 days. For optimal texture, it’s recommended to reheat them in the oven or air fryer to maintain crispiness.
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Watch How To Make It
Fried Lemon Pepper Chicken Wings
Ingredients
- 2 lbs Chicken Wings & Drumlettes around 18-20 pieces
- 1/4 tsp Salt
- 1/4 tsp Black Pepper
- 2 tsp Lemon Pepper
- 2 tbsp Olive Oil
- 2 Cups Cooking Oil neutral, no flavor or taste
Instructions
- Gather all the ingredients.
- In a mixing bowl, combine chicken wings with salt and black pepper and toss well. Set aside.
- Add enough oil to cover about 1/2 inch from the bottom of your frying vessel and heat to 375F. Once the oil is preheated, set heat to medium and carefully add 1/2 of the chicken batch inside (around 10 pieces). Cook for 3 minutes and then rotate and cook the other side for another 3 minutes. Place on drying rack once done frying.
- In a new mixing bowl, combine olive oil with lemon pepper and mix well. Toss fried chicken and transfer to a plate. Note- adjust taste to liking with more or less lemon pepper.
Nutrition
*Values Based Per Serving
