Air Fryer Copycat Buffalo Wild Wings Lemon Pepper Wings –If you’re a fan of delicious Buffalo Wild Wings, why not try making your version at home with just an air fryer?

lemon pepper wings
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That’s right, you heard correctly – today, we will walk you through the steps to make lemon pepper wings in your air fryer!

Not only are these wings as juicy and flavorful as they come fresh from the restaurant – but they take minimal effort and time, too.

Thanks to the magic of air-frying technology, these copycat Buffalo Wild Wings Lemon Pepper Wings have all the flavor without any added guilt or calories. So fire up that hot little appliance, and let’s get cooking!

Copycat Buffalo Wild Wings Lemon Pepper Wings Recipe


Indulge in the zesty tang and mouth-watering aroma of our Copycat Buffalo Wild Wings Lemon Pepper Wings right from the comfort of your kitchen! There’s something truly addictive about the fusion of fresh lemon zest and the subtle heat of cracked pepper.

This recipe captures the iconic flavor of Buffalo Wild Wings’ beloved dish, offering a culinary experience that rivals the original. Whether hosting a game night, settling for a movie marathon, or craving a savory treat, these wings promise to be a showstopper. Ready to give the restaurant version a run for its money? Let’s dive in!

Ingredients Needed For Air Fryer Copycat Buffalo Wild Wings Lemon Pepper Wings

Do you love the intense flavors of Buffalo Wild Wings Lemon Pepper Wings but can’t reach one of their locations for a plate? You don’t have to worry—you won’t sacrifice flavor with this Air Fryer Copycat Buffalo Wild Wings Lemon Pepper Wings Recipe.

You can quickly create a delicious copycat version with just a few simple ingredients and your air fryer! So, if you’re looking for an easy way to get your Buffalo wings fixed at home, read on below so we can show you exactly how it’s done.

​How To Make Chicken Wings In Ninja Foodi

Remember the step-by-step directions and detailed ingredient list are below in the printable recipe card at the bottom of the post, as well as the nutritional information.

  • Chicken Wings: Fresh chicken wings ensure juiciness and flavor. Opt for organic wings if available for the best quality and taste.
  • Fresh Lemons: Freshly squeezed lemon juice and zest impart the tangy, zesty flavor signature to these wings. Always choose ripe, firm lemons for maximum juice yield.
  • Black Pepper: Freshly cracked black pepper provides a mild heat and aromatic essence, elevating the lemony notes of the wings. Always grind just before use to maintain freshness.
  • Kosher Salt: Balances the zest of the lemon and the heat of the black pepper, bringing out the natural flavors of the chicken.
  • Unsalted Butter: Melted butter forms the base of the sauce, giving the wings a rich texture and helping the lemon and pepper flavors adhere better.
  • Garlic Powder: Adds a layer of depth and savory undertones, complementing the zestiness of the lemon.
  • Olive Oil or Cooking Spray: Helps achieve that perfect, crispy outer layer in the air fryer. Olive oil is healthier, but any light cooking spray will do.
  • Parsley: Freshly chopped parsley adds a pop of color and introduces a mild, earthy flavor, making the wings visually and gastronomically appealing.

You’re all set to recreate the iconic Buffalo Wild Wings’ Lemon Pepper flavor using these ingredients. With the right balance of zest, heat, and savory goodness, your air-fried wings will be a hit!

How To Make Air Fryer Copycat Buffalo Wild Wings Lemon Pepper Wings

Who doesn’t love the deliciousness of Buffalo Wild Wings, particularly their Lemon Pepper Wings? If you’re like us and can’t get enough of them, then great news – you no longer have to go out to enjoy this tasty treat! Making a copycat version at home is not only incredibly simple but surprisingly healthy, too. All it takes is an air fryer and a few favorite ingredients to have those wings ready for snacking in no time!

Below, we’ll run through everything you need to know about how to make Copycat Buffalo Wild Wings Lemon Pepper Wings in your air fryer – let’s dive right in!

Preparation:

Wash and pat dry the chicken wings using paper towels. This ensures that they crisp up well during cooking.

Zest the lemons and then juice them. Keep the zest and juice aside.

Air Fryer Copycat Zaxby’s Chicken Fingers

Seasoning:

Combine the lemon zest, freshly cracked black pepper, salt, and garlic powder in a large mixing bowl.

Add the chicken wings to the bowl and toss until thoroughly coated with the seasoning mixture.

Do I need to thaw the chicken wings before air frying? It's preferable to use thawed chicken wings as they marinate and cook more evenly. However, if you're using frozen wings, extend the cooking time and ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Can I use store-bought jerk marinade instead of making my own? Absolutely! Store-bought jerk marinades can save time and are often authentic in flavor. Adjust the amount used based on your heat preference. My wings didn't turn out crispy. What went wrong? Overcrowding the air fryer can cause the wings to steam rather than crisp. Always ensure wings are in a single layer with space between them. Also, ensure your air fryer is properly preheated. Can I use the same method for jerk chicken drumsticks or thighs? Yes, but cooking times will vary. Larger pieces like drumsticks or thighs may take longer. Always check the internal temperature to ensure doneness. Is it necessary to marinate the wings, or can I just sprinkle them with jerk seasoning? Marinating infuses the wings with deeper flavor. However, in a pinch, you can sprinkle them with jerk seasoning and a touch of oil before air frying. How spicy are jerk chicken wings? The spiciness largely depends on the jerk seasoning or marinade used. Traditional jerk seasoning has a kick, but you can adjust the quantity to your heat tolerance. What's the best dip to serve with jerk chicken wings? Creamy dips like ranch or blue cheese can help balance the heat. Mango salsa or a yogurt-based dip with cilantro can also complement the Caribbean flavors. Can I reheat leftovers in the air fryer? Yes! Reheating in the air fryer for a few minutes at 350°F (175°C) can help retain the crispiness of the wings. How long can I store the marinated chicken wings before cooking? For best results, use marinated wings within 24 hours. If you need to store them longer, freeze them and use within a month. Why use brown sugar in the marinade? Brown sugar adds a hint of sweetness that complements the spicy and savory flavors of the jerk seasoning. It also helps in caramelizing the wings, giving them a nice color and taste. Cooking jerk chicken wings in an air fryer is a delightful experience, blending traditional flavors with modern cooking techniques. Use this FAQ as a guide to perfect your wings and enjoy the vibrant flavors of the Caribbean!

Air Frying:

Preheat your air fryer to 375 degrees F (190°C) for 3-5 minutes.

Lightly grease the air fryer basket with olive oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Place the seasoned chicken wings in a single layer in the basket, ensuring they’re not overcrowded.

Air fry for 20-25 minutes, turning the wings halfway through until golden brown and crispy. The internal temperature should reach at least 165°F (74°C).

Lemon Pepper Sauce:

While the wings are frying, in a small saucepan, melt the butter. Once melted, turn off the heat and stir in the fresh lemon juice. This mixture serves as your lemon-pepper butter sauce.

Coating the Wings:

Once the wings are cooked, transfer them to a clean bowl. Pour the lemon-pepper butter sauce over the wings and toss until they’re well coated.

Serve:

Transfer the wings to a serving plate. Garnish with parsley, if desired, and serve immediately.

lemon pepper wings

Pro Tips For Making Air Fryer Copycat Buffalo Wild Wings Lemon Pepper Wings

Here are some pro tips to ensure your Air Fryer Copycat Buffalo Wild Wings Lemon Pepper Wings turn out perfectly every time:

  • Chicken Quality: Use fresh wings whenever possible. If using frozen, ensure they’re completely thawed and patted dry to achieve the desired crispiness.
  • Preheating the Air Fryer: Always preheat your air fryer like an oven. This ensures that the wings begin cooking immediately and crisp up evenly.
  • Avoid Overcrowding: Don’t stack or overcrowd the wings in the air fryer basket. Overcrowding can cause the wings to steam instead of frying, which may prevent them from getting crispy.
  • Tossing Mid-Cook: Turn the wings halfway through the cooking process to ensure even cooking and crispiness. Some air fryers come with a reminder for this!
  • Adjust to Taste: If you like your wings extra zesty, add lemon zest or a splash of more juice. For those who enjoy a spicier kick, consider adding a touch of cayenne pepper to the mix.
  • Check Internal Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your wings reach an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C). This ensures they’re safe to eat.
  • Serving Immediately: Wings are best enjoyed hot and fresh from the air fryer. They might lose some of their crispiness if they sit for too long.
  • Butter Quality: Opt for unsalted, high-quality butter for your sauce. It offers a richer flavor and lets you control the dish’s saltiness.
  • Serving Sides: Lemon Pepper Wings pair beautifully with creamy dips like ranch or blue cheese. For a refreshing crunch, consider offering some sliced celery and carrots on the side.
  • Storage & Reheating: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When reheating, using the air fryer will help retain the crispiness better than a microwave.

With these pro tips, you’re well on your way to mastering the art of making the perfect Copycat Buffalo Wild Wings Lemon Pepper Wings in your air fryer! Enjoy the zesty and crispy delight with every bite.

Here are some pro tips to ensure your Air Fryer Copycat Buffalo Wild Wings Lemon Pepper Wings turn out perfectly every time:

Chicken Quality:

Use fresh wings whenever possible. If using frozen, ensure they're completely thawed and patted dry to achieve the desired crispiness.
Preheating the Air Fryer:

Just like an oven, always preheat your air fryer. This ensures that the wings begin cooking immediately and crisp up evenly.
Avoid Overcrowding:

Don't stack or overcrowd the wings in the air fryer basket. Overcrowding can cause the wings to steam instead of frying, which may prevent them from getting crispy.
Tossing Mid-Cook:

To ensure even cooking and crispiness, turn the wings halfway through the cooking process. Some air fryers come with a reminder for this!
Adjust to Taste:

If you like your wings extra zesty, add more lemon zest or a splash more juice. For those who enjoy a spicier kick, consider adding a touch of cayenne pepper to the mix.
Check Internal Temperature:

Use a meat thermometer to ensure your wings reach an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C). This ensures they're safe to eat.
Serving Immediately:

Wings are best enjoyed hot and fresh out of the air fryer. If they sit for too long, they might lose some of their crispiness.
Butter Quality:

Opt for unsalted, high-quality butter for your sauce. It offers a richer flavor and allows you to control the saltiness of the dish.
Serving Sides:

Lemon Pepper Wings pair beautifully with creamy dips like ranch or blue cheese. Consider offering some sliced celery and carrots on the side for a refreshing crunch.
Storage & Reheating:

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When reheating, using the air fryer will help retain the crispiness better than a microwave.
With these pro tips in hand, you're well on your way to mastering the art of making the perfect Copycat Buffalo Wild Wings Lemon Pepper Wings in your air fryer! Enjoy the zesty and crispy delight with every bite.

Can I use frozen chicken wings?

Yes, you can use frozen wings, but ensure they’re completely thawed and patted dry. This helps in achieving the desired crispiness when air frying.

How can I store leftover wings?

Store leftover wings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best results, reheat in the air fryer to retain their crispiness.

Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh lemons?

While fresh lemons are preferred for their zest and fresh flavor, bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch. However, the zest, which contributes significantly to the lemon flavor, might be missed.

Can I make the wings spicier?

Absolutely! Consider adding a touch of cayenne pepper or red chili flakes to the seasoning for an extra kick.

My wings aren’t getting crispy. What am I doing wrong?

Ensure your wings are patted dry and not overcrowded in the air fryer. Overcrowding can cause them to steam instead of fry. Also, ensure your air fryer is preheated properly.

Can I use this lemon-pepper sauce on other meats or dishes?

The lemon-pepper butter sauce is versatile and can be used on other poultry, seafood or even as a drizzle on roasted vegetables.

How do I know when the wings are fully cooked?

The wings should have a golden-brown exterior and reach an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C). Using a meat thermometer is the best way to check.

Can I double or halve this recipe?

Yes, you can adjust the recipe to fit the number of servings you need. Just ensure not to overcrowd the air fryer – you might have to cook in batches.

lemon pepper wings

More Air Fryer Recipes

From the crispiness of the wings to the tangy kick from the lemon pepper seasoning, these Air Fryer Copycat Buffalo Wild Wings Lemon Pepper Wings were a success. The flavors offered that unique balance that any fan of Lemon Pepper would appreciate. If you are looking for an easy and delicious recipe for your air fryer, this one should be at the top of your list! Plus, thanks to its quick and effortless preparation, don’t worry about it being too much of a hassle. This recipe was a hit with us, and we hope you have an amazing time trying it out for yourself, too. Bon appétit!

Air Fryer Copycat Buffalo Wild Wings Lemon Pepper Wings
lemon pepper wings

Air Fryer Copycat Buffalo Wild Wings Lemon Pepper Wings

5 from 1 vote
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 6 Servings

Description

Air Fryer Copycat Buffalo Wild Wings Lemon Pepper Wings –If you’re a fan of delicious Buffalo Wild Wings, why not try making your version at home with just an air fryer?

Ingredients 

  • 2-3 pounds Chicken wings
  • 2-3 fresh lemons
  • 2 tablespoons Freshly cracked black pepper, 2 tablespoons
  • 1 teaspoon Salt
  • 4 tablespoons Unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic powder
  • Olive oil or cooking spray
  • Parsley, optional, for garnish

Instructions

  • Wash and pat dry the chicken wings using paper towels. This ensures that they crisp up well during cooking.
  • Zest the lemons and then juice them. Keep the zest and juice aside.
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the lemon zest, freshly cracked black pepper, salt, and garlic powder.
  • Add the chicken wings to the bowl and toss until they are thoroughly coated with the seasoning mixture.
  • Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes.
  • Lightly grease the air fryer basket with olive oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
  • Place the seasoned chicken wings in a single layer in the basket, ensuring they’re not overcrowded.
  • Air fry for 20-25 minutes, turning the wings halfway through, until they’re golden brown and crispy. The internal temperature should reach at least 165°F (74°C).
  • While the wings are frying, in a small saucepan, melt the butter. Once melted, turn off the heat and stir in the fresh lemon juice. This mixture serves as your lemon-pepper butter sauce.
  • Once the wings are cooked, transfer them to a clean bowl. Pour the lemon-pepper butter sauce over the wings and toss until they’re well coated.
  • Transfer the wings to a serving plate. Garnish with parsley, if desired, and serve immediately.

Equipment

  • Air Fryer
  • Cooking Spray
  • Parchment Paper, optional

Nutrition

Serving: 1ServingCalories: 255kcalCarbohydrates: 2gProtein: 15gFat: 21gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gTrans Fat: 0.5gCholesterol: 83mgSodium: 449mgPotassium: 163mgFiber: 1gSugar: 0.04gVitamin A: 364IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 22mgIron: 1mg

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