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Crispy Lemon Pepper Wet Wings Recipe Easy Homemade Butter Sauce

crispy lemon pepper wet wings - featured image

Crispy on the outside and juicy inside, these lemon pepper wet wings are coated in a glossy, buttery lemon pepper glaze that delivers bold flavor and satisfying crunch. Perfect for quick weeknight meals or game day gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds (900g) chicken wings, separated into flats and drumettes
  • 4 cups (1L) vegetable oil for frying (can substitute peanut or canola oil)
  • Kosher or sea salt, for seasoning
  • Freshly cracked black pepper
  • Lemon pepper seasoning: lemon zest from 1 lemon, 2 teaspoons cracked black pepper, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, pinch of smoked paprika (optional)
  • 6 tablespoons (85g) unsalted butter, melted
  • Juice of 1 large lemon (about 2 tablespoons), freshly squeezed
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon honey (optional)

Instructions

  1. Pat chicken wings dry with paper towels to remove moisture.
  2. Lightly salt and pepper the wings on all sides and let sit for 10 minutes at room temperature.
  3. Heat 4 cups (1L) of vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large heavy-bottomed pot to 350°F (175°C), using a cooking thermometer to monitor temperature.
  4. Fry wings in batches for 8 minutes until pale golden but not fully crisp. Remove and drain on a wire rack.
  5. Let wings cool for 10 minutes to render fat and improve crunch.
  6. Return wings to hot oil and fry for an additional 3-4 minutes until deeply golden and crispy.
  7. Remove wings and drain excess oil on a wire rack.
  8. In a small saucepan, melt 6 tablespoons (85g) unsalted butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
  9. Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice, honey (if using), and 2 teaspoons lemon pepper seasoning mix.
  10. Transfer wings to a large bowl, pour warm butter sauce over, and gently toss until evenly coated.
  11. Serve immediately while hot and crispy.

Notes

Double frying is essential for crispy skin. Keep oil temperature steady at 350°F (175°C). Pat wings dry before frying to remove moisture. Toss wings in warm sauce just before serving to maintain crispiness. For extra crisp, flash under broiler 1-2 minutes after saucing. Can bake wings at 425°F (220°C) for 40-45 minutes as a lighter alternative.

Nutrition

Keywords: lemon pepper wings, crispy wings, wet wings, butter sauce, fried chicken wings, game day recipe, easy wings, homemade wings