Lemon Pepper Fried Chicken Wings rely on dry seasoning, a light flour coating, and precise oil temperature to create crisp skin without heaviness. Lemon zest seasons the meat before frying, while lemon juice and butter finish the wings after cooking. This sequence keeps the coating crunchy and the citrus flavour sharp, not acidic or soggy.
Ingredients
UNITSIngredients
1 kgChicken wings (cleaned and split at the joints)
Pat the chicken wings thoroughly using kitchen towels. Moisture on the surface creates steam during frying, which prevents crisping. Place the dried wings into a wide bowl so the seasoning spreads evenly.
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Step 2: Season thoroughly
Add salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and lemon zest to the wings. Toss well until every piece is coated. Rest for 15 minutes at room temperature so the seasoning penetrates the skin and meat.
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Step 3: Prepare coating
In a separate bowl, mix all-purpose flour, cornflour, and baking powder evenly. This blend forms a thin, brittle crust that fries golden without absorbing excess oil.
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Step 4: Coat the wings
Add the seasoned wings to the flour mixture. Toss gently, ensuring light and even coverage. Shake off loose flour so the coating does not clump or turn doughy while frying.
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Step 5: Heat the oil
Heat neutral oil in a deep pan to 170-175°C. This temperature cooks the wings through while allowing the coating to crisp gradually without burning.
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Step 6: Fry until crisp
Fry wings in small batches, turning occasionally for even colour. Cook until golden and crisp, ensuring the internal temperature reaches 74°C. Remove and drain on a wire rack.
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Step 7: Rest briefly
Let the wings rest after frying. This short pause allows steam to escape and keeps the crust intact before tossing with butter.
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Step 8: Make lemon butter
Melt butter gently over low heat. Add lemon juice and freshly ground black pepper. Stir briefly and remove it from heat to keep flavours clean and aromatic.
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Step 9: Finish and toss
Transfer wings to a bowl and pour the warm lemon pepper butter over them. Toss gently so the coating stays crisp while absorbing flavour.