Make Ahead Lemon Pepper Chicken Wings

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Published: 01/31/2022 | Updated: 03/29/2024

There’s something about a hot chicken crispy wing that just screams summertime. And what better way to enjoy them than prepping them ahead of time and letting the heat of the grill do all of the work? These crockpot lemon pepper chicken wings are perfect for a busy night, or as a light appetizer before your favorite game.

If you’re looking for a quick homemade lemon pepper wings recipe that will satisfy your sweet and savory cravings, then the lemon pepper chicken wings appetizer is just the thing. This dish hits all the right notes with juicy and flavorful chicken wings topped with tangy sauce and zesty lemon pepper seasoning recipe. Not to mention, it’s easy to make ahead of time!

A perfect game day appetizer for all wing lovers!

These make-ahead lemon pepper chicken wings are great to have in the freezer. You can pull them out and cook them up if a company stops by or for a game day or movie night snack.

You know that I tell it like it is. I don’t actually eat chicken wings. I haven’t since I was a kid. I’m just not a fan, so I don’t serve them often.

But we have this one friend. I won’t name names or anything (he knows who he is!), but he is super picky. I’m a picky eater too, but he’s got me beat.

One of the few things he will actually eat is chicken wings. In fact, he loves delicious chicken wings! So while I don’t normally make fresh chicken wings, I have a couple of make-ahead wing recipes in the freezer so I can pull them out when I know he’s coming over.

He’s one of my husband’s best friends, so he comes over often enough that I’ve come up with a few make-ahead chicken wing recipes. These lemon pepper wings are one of them.

Lemon Pepper Chicken Wings Recipe:

• 3 lbs. chicken wings
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tsp. lemon pepper seasoning
• 1/4 tsp. Italian seasoning
• 1/8-1/4 tsp. cayenne pepper

Assembly instructions:

Place 3 lbs. chicken wings in a large resealable freezer bag. Add the other simple ingredients. Give it a smush. (technical terms from squishing things around to mix them!)

Remove the excess air, seal, and freeze.

Slow cooker cooking instructions:

Thaw. Cook in the slow cooker for 3-4 hours on high or 5-6 hours on low.

Oven cooking instructions:

Thaw. Bake in preheated 350° oven, covered for 45 minutes. Uncover and cook another 10 minutes.

Actifry cooking instructions:

Thaw. Cook in an Actifry for 22 minutes. This is my preferred cooking method for these chicken wings.

You can blot them on a paper towel before serving if you like to remove any grease. The cooking time for chicken wings varies depending on their size.

These lemon pepper wings are flavourful and perfect appetizer to any meal. They aren’t overly spicy, making them a great snack for those of all ages.

Looking for more appetizers/snacks recipes

Looking for more appetizers and snack recipes? Here are some great ideas to try out! Whether you’re in the mood for something savory or sweet, these recipes will have you covered. 

• Bacon Wrapped Chili Chicken Bites with Asparagus
• Bacon, Blue Cheese and Caramelized Onion Bites
• 3 Ingredient Bacon Appetizer
• Avocado Tacos
• Asparagus Prosciutto Spears
• Bacon and Goat Cheese Stuffed Mini Peppers
• Blackened Shrimp Avocado Bites
• Blue Cheese Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Dates

This recipe is not as difficult as it seems and can be completed in a decent amount of time. It’s worth the effort, as the lemon pepper adds a new level of flavor that is not found in most chicken wing favorite recipes.

It doesn’t seem like it will be hard to make this recipe and the secret ingredients are all easily found at any grocery store. The best part about this recipe is that you can use whichever type of flavorings you prefer.

I love fresh lemon pepper because it delivers a dynamic lemon flavor that is hard to achieve any other way other than marinating and the pepper pumps the flavor.

Should I use cornstarch or baking powder for wings?

Baking powder is often used to make wings crispy due to its alkaline composition. When the heat of frying causes the baking powder to break down, it releases its moisture and makes the skin of the wing extra crisp. However, depending on the brand of baking powder you use, your wings could end up with a slightly different taste and an unpleasant gritty texture.

In conclusion, lemon pepper crispy chicken wings are a great appetizer for any party, game-day snack, or get-together. They are easy to make and can be prepared ahead of time. So, if you are looking for a tasty and convenient snack, be sure to give these favorite wing recipes a try and it is a family favorite. Truthfully speaking though, who doesn’t want a crispy wing?

 

Check out this other great make-ahead (freezer) appetizers:

Sweet and Sour Chicken Wings

 

Make-Ahead Spinach Artichoke Dip