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Grilled Lemon Pepper Chicken Wings

Zesty Grilled Lemon Pepper Chicken Wings Everyone Will Love

Enjoy zesty grilled lemon pepper chicken wings that are a hit at any gathering.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Marinating Time 2 hours
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 wings
Course: Chicken
Cuisine: American
Calories: 400

Ingredients
  

For the Wings
  • 2 lbs Chicken Wings Choose wings with skin for optimal crispiness.
  • 2 tbsp Vegetable Oil Canola or any neutral oil works well.
  • 1 tbsp Lemon Zest Fresh zest adds vibrant citrus flavor.
  • 2 tsp Kosher Salt Substitute with sea salt at a 1:1 ratio.
  • 1 tsp Smoked Paprika Adds depth with a smoky flavor.
  • 1 tsp Garlic Powder Adjust to taste with fresh garlic if preferred.
  • 1 tsp Onion Powder Finely minced fresh onion can be used as a substitute.
  • 1/2 tsp Cayenne Pepper Adjust based on your spice preference.
  • 1/2 tsp Black Pepper Use freshly cracked for the best flavor.
For the Creamy Dipping Sauce
  • 1/2 cup Mayonnaise For a lighter option, try plain Greek yogurt.
  • 1/4 cup Plain Greek Yogurt/Sour Cream Yogurt is the healthier choice.
  • 1 tbsp Honey Maple syrup is a vegan alternative.
  • 1 tsp Dijon Mustard Yellow mustard can be used but changes the taste.
  • 1 tbsp Fresh Lemon Juice Always go for fresh for the best results.
  • 1 tsp Hot Sauce (Tabasco) Substitute with your preferred hot sauce.
  • 2 cloves Garlic (fresh, grated) Minced garlic can work as a quick fix.
  • 2 tbsp Fresh Flat-leaf Parsley Optional garnish.
  • 1/4 cup Parmesan Cheese Optional topping for extra flavor.

Equipment

  • Grill
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Whisk

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the freshly grated lemon zest, kosher salt, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, and black pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly blended. Reserve about 1 teaspoon for the dipping sauce later.
  2. Pat the chicken wings dry with paper towels to remove moisture. Toss the dried wings in the spice rub, ensuring they are evenly coated. Let them sit while you prepare the grill.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, honey, Dijon mustard, lemon zest, fresh lemon juice, hot sauce, and reserved spice mix. Blend until smooth and creamy.
  4. Preheat your grill to medium heat (350°F to 375°F) and lightly oil the grates. Arrange the wings on the grill, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Cook for 15-20 minutes, flipping frequently.
  5. Once grilled to perfection, transfer the wings to a platter. Optionally sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and parsley. Serve with the creamy dipping sauce.

Nutrition

Serving: 5wingsCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 2gProtein: 30gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 15gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 300mgSugar: 2gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 4mgIron: 6mg

Notes

Allow wings to marinate in the spice rub for up to 2 hours for enhanced flavor. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

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