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Ultimate Crispy Air Fryer Lemon Pepper Wings

A close-up of crispy, golden Air Fryer Lemon Pepper Wings piled high on a white serving dish.
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Make perfectly crispy, zesty lemon pepper wings using your air fryer. This recipe focuses on a dry rub for maximum crunch.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 lbs chicken wings (flats and drumettes)
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder (aluminum-free)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon lemon pepper seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or avocado oil
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter (for tossing after cooking, optional)
  • 1 tablespoon extra lemon pepper seasoning (for finishing)

Instructions

  1. Pat the chicken wings completely dry using paper towels. This step is crucial for crispiness.
  2. In a large bowl, mix the baking powder, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, 1 teaspoon lemon pepper seasoning, and cayenne pepper (if using).
  3. Add the wings to the bowl and drizzle with the oil. Toss well until every wing is lightly coated with the dry rub mixture.
  4. Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (195°C) for 5 minutes.
  5. Arrange the wings in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring there is space between them for air circulation. Work in batches if necessary.
  6. Air fry for 18 minutes.
  7. After 18 minutes, open the basket and shake the wings well to flip them.
  8. Increase the temperature to 400°F (200°C) and cook for another 5 to 7 minutes, or until the wings are golden brown and very crispy. Total cook time is usually 23 to 25 minutes.
  9. Remove the wings from the air fryer. If you prefer a sauced finish, immediately toss them in the melted butter and the remaining 1 tablespoon of lemon pepper seasoning.
  10. Serve immediately with ranch or blue cheese dressing if desired.

Notes

  • Drying the wings thoroughly removes surface moisture, which prevents steaming and promotes crisping.
  • Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket; cook in batches for the best texture.
  • If you prefer a stronger lemon flavor, add 1 teaspoon of fresh lemon zest to the melted butter before tossing.
  • For boneless wings, reduce the cooking time by about 5 to 7 minutes total.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookerycourier.com/air-fryer-lemon-pepper-wings/