Description
🍋 Crispy, juicy, and bursting with flavor, these Air Fryer Lemon Chicken Wings are a healthier twist on your favorite snack without sacrificing taste! 🍗
🧈 Finished with a luscious zesty lemon butter sauce, this recipe is a must-try for a tangy, buttery delight that’s quick and easy to prepare! 🍋
Ingredients
1. 1-1.5 pounds chicken wings (drumettes and flats, fresh or thawed if frozen).
2. 1 tablespoon oil (vegetable oil, olive oil, or avocado oil).
3. 1-2 teaspoons lemon pepper seasoning.
4. Salt (to taste).
5. Pepper (to taste).
6. Optional – Cayenne pepper (for extra heat).
7. 1/4 to 3 tablespoons butter (for the sauce, depending on desired thickness).
8. 1 teaspoon lemon zest (for citrus flavor).
9. 1 ½ tablespoons lemon juice.
10. Honey (optional, for a hint of sweetness).
Instructions
1. Pat the chicken wings dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture for crispy skin.
2. Separate the wings into drumettes and flats if needed for even cooking.
3. Toss the wings in a large bowl with oil to help the seasoning adhere and prevent dryness.
4. Season the wings with lemon pepper seasoning, salt, and pepper. Add cayenne pepper if you want a spicy kick.
5. Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (190°C) for even cooking.
6. Arrange the wings in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded.
7. Cook the wings at 380°F for 20-22 minutes, flipping or shaking the basket halfway through for even cooking.
8. For extra crispy skin, increase the air fryer temperature to 400°F for the last 3-5 minutes of cooking.
9. Ensure the internal temperature of the wings reaches 165°F for food safety.
10. Melt butter in a small saucepan over low heat to prepare the lemon butter sauce.
11. Add lemon zest to the melted butter and stir for 1-2 minutes to release the citrus flavors.
12. Mix lemon juice and honey into the butter sauce, stirring well. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
13. Remove the cooked wings from the air fryer and place them in a large bowl.
14. Pour the lemon butter sauce over the wings and gently toss them to coat evenly.
15. Transfer the coated wings to a serving platter and garnish with parsley or additional lemon zest.
16. Serve immediately with your favorite sides, such as celery sticks and ranch or blue cheese dip.
Notes
1. Achieve the perfect crispy texture by patting wings dry and cooking in a single layer in the air fryer.
2. Infuse bold flavors by experimenting with seasoning variations like garlic-lemon or sweet and tangy honey-lemon glazes.
3. Save time and calories with air frying, eliminating the need for excess oil while keeping wings juicy and delicious.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 20
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American