Lemon Pepper Turkey Wings Recipe

If you’re looking for a dish that’s bursting with flavor, super easy to make, and perfect for any occasion, then you absolutely have to try my Lemon Pepper Turkey Wings Recipe. I love this recipe because it gives you juicy, tender turkey wings with a crispy, lemony crust that’s irresistible — honestly, my family goes crazy for this one! Whether you’re cooking for a casual weeknight dinner or prepping for guests, this recipe has you covered. Keep reading because I’m going to walk you through everything, step-by-step, so your wings turn out perfectly every single time.

this …

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses classic pantry staples that work in harmony to bring out the best in those turkey wings. When shopping, look for high-quality seasoning blends and good salted butter, as they really make a difference in flavor.

• Turkey wings: Fresh or thawed wings work best; I like to cut at the joints and save the tips for stock if I’m feeling ambitious!
• Salt: Essential for bringing out all the flavors in the seasoning.
• Ground black pepper: Adds that subtle kick and balances the lemony notes.
• Garlic powder: Enhances savory depth without overpowering the lemon.
• Onion powder: Rounds out the flavor profile nicely.
• Dried thyme and dried parsley: These herbs add a lovely earthiness and freshness to the mix.
• Lemon pepper seasoning (salt-free): The star of the show – choose a salt-free blend so you can control the saltiness perfectly.
• Salted butter: I swear by Kerrygold for its rich, creamy flavor that brings the sauce to life.
• Minced garlic: For the lemon pepper butter sauce, fresh garlic really gives it that punch you want.
• Lemon wedges or slices: Optional, but I love using them for garnish and a fresh citrus kick.
• Minced parsley: For a pop of color and a hint of herbal brightness as a garnish.

Variations

While I adore the classic version of this Lemon Pepper Turkey Wings Recipe, I’m always tweaking it a bit depending on mood or occasion. Feel free to make it your own by experimenting with flavors and cooking methods.

• Spicy Kick: Adding a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix is my go-to when I want to jazz things up a bit.
• Smoky Flavor: Try incorporating smoked paprika or cooking the wings on a grill for a subtle smoky undertone that’s wonderful.
• Herb Mix Swap: If you have fresh herbs on hand, swapping dried for fresh thyme and parsley adds extra vibrancy and aroma.
• Oven to Air Fryer: For a quicker cook with an extra crispy skin, I sometimes finish the wings in a preheated air fryer for 5-7 minutes after baking.

How to Make Lemon Pepper Turkey Wings Recipe

Step 1: Prep and Season Your Turkey Wings

Start by preheating your oven to 400° F (200° C) and lining a baking sheet with foil for easy clean-up. If your wings are whole, cut them at the joints and discard the tips or save them for stock. Pat the wings dry with paper towels — this is a crucial step because dry skin crisps up much better in the oven. Toss the wings in a big bowl with your salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, parsley, and salt-free lemon pepper seasoning. Make sure every nook and cranny is coated; I like to get my hands in there for the best coverage!

Step 2: Bake Low and Slow to Perfection

Lay the seasoned wings out on your prepared pan in a single layer. Pop them in the oven for about an hour. After the first 30 minutes, flip those wings over to ensure a crispy, even bake. Use an instant-read thermometer to check doneness — you’re aiming for 165°F (74°C) inside the thickest part, avoiding the bone. I used to guess, but trust me, this little tool is a game-changer for always getting safe and juicy wings.

Step 3: Whip Up the Lemon Pepper Butter Sauce

While the wings bake, melt 6 tablespoons of salted butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Once melted, add your minced garlic and stir it around for about 30 seconds until fragrant — don’t let it brown! Remove the pan from heat and stir in 2 teaspoons of lemon pepper seasoning. This sauce is where the magic really happens: rich, zesty, and garlicky.

Step 4: Toss to Coat and Serve

After the wings come out of the oven, transfer them to a large bowl. Pour the lemon pepper butter sauce over the top and toss well to coat every wing. If you prefer, you can also brush the sauce onto the wings for a more even glaze. Finally, garnish with extra lemon pepper seasoning, fresh lemon slices or wedges, and a sprinkle of minced parsley for a fresh pop of color and flavor.

How to Serve Lemon Pepper Turkey Wings Recipe

Garnishes

For garnishes, I love sprinkling a little extra lemon pepper seasoning right before serving to brighten things up. Fresh lemon wedges or thin slices add a beautiful fresh citrus aroma and taste that complements the richness of the wings. A sprinkle of minced fresh parsley gives a lovely green contrast and lifts the presentation.

Side Dishes

This Lemon Pepper Turkey Wings Recipe pairs beautifully with simple sides like garlic mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette. I’ve also enjoyed it alongside classic southern-style sides like collard greens or baked mac and cheese for a heartier meal that really hits the spot.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special dinner or party, I like to arrange the wings on a large platter lined with lemon slices and scatter extra herbs on top. Serving with small bowls of ranch or blue cheese dressing alongside gives your guests options for dipping. You can even stack the wings on a tiered tray for a fun and festive look that instantly elevates your spread.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I usually store leftover wings in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure the wings are completely cooled before sealing to keep them fresh and prevent sogginess. Reheat as described below for the best texture.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, these turkey wings freeze beautifully. After baking and cooling, wrap each wing individually in foil or plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months.

Reheating

To reheat, I recommend warming the wings in a 350°F oven for about 15-20 minutes. This brings back the crispiness without drying out the meat. You can brush a little extra lemon pepper butter sauce on top before reheating if you want that fresh, saucy flavor like when first cooked.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend this Lemon Pepper Turkey Wings Recipe enough — it’s become a staple in my kitchen because it’s so flavorful, straightforward, and crowd-pleasing. I remember the first time I made it for a family dinner; everyone was asking for seconds and begging me to write down the recipe. Once you try it yourself, you’ll understand why! So go ahead, grab those turkey wings, and give this recipe a whirl. Cooking this cozy, lemony dish together in your own kitchen? It’s going to be a highlight of your week.

Print