Grilled Lemon Pepper Chicken Wings That Will Steal the Show

These Grilled Lemon Pepper Chicken Wings are a zesty, flavorful dish perfect for your next BBQ gathering.

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 20

Total Time 30

Servings: 4 wings

Course: Appetizers

Cuisine: American

Calories: 300

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

For the Wings

3 pounds chicken wings Use boneless thighs if you prefer a different cut.
Vegetable oil Grease the grill for optimal cooking; any high smoke point oil works well.
¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese Adds a savory richness; sprinkle on top for extra flavor.
Minced fresh flat-leaf parsley This optional garnish adds a touch of color and freshness.

For the Spice Rub

1 teaspoon grated lemon zest Intensifies the lemon flavor; fresh zest is best for brightness.
2 teaspoons kosher salt Enhances the overall flavor; adjust to taste for personal preference.
2 teaspoons smoked paprika Adds a smoky depth; regular paprika can be used if preferred.
1 teaspoon garlic powder Offers flavor complexity; feel free to substitute with fresh garlic.
1 teaspoon onion powder Complements garlic; opt to omit if desired.
¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper Adds heat; adjust according to how spicy you like your wings.
1 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper Enhances spiciness; tweak to your taste.

For the Dipping Sauce

½ cup mayonnaise The creamy base for your dipping sauce; substitute with Greek yogurt for a healthier option.
½ cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream Adds creaminess; select based on your preference.
1 tablespoon honey Balances out flavors with a touch of sweetness; maple syrup is a great alternative.
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard Brings a tangy note; yellow mustard can work as an alternative.
1 teaspoon grated lemon zest Reinforces the lemony flavor in the sauce.
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice The fresh acidity brightens the dish; bottled lemon juice won’t provide the same zest.
1 teaspoon hot sauce (such as Tabasco) Introduces some extra heat; feel free to omit if you want milder sauce.
1 clove garlic, grated Fresh garlic brings life to your sauce; adjust according to taste.
½ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper Include for a final kick of flavor in the sauce.

Equipment

Grill

Method

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Grilled Lemon Pepper Chicken Wings

In a large bowl, combine the grated lemon zest, kosher salt, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, and freshly cracked black pepper. Mix well to create a fragrant seasoning blend, reserving 1 teaspoon for the creamy dipping sauce later.
Pat the chicken wings dry with paper towels to ensure a crispy exterior. In a separate bowl, toss the dry wings with the lemon pepper spice rub until they are evenly coated.
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, honey, Dijon mustard, reserved lemon zest, fresh lemon juice, hot sauce, grated garlic, and the reserved spice mix until smooth and creamy.
Preheat your grill to a medium heat, around 350°F. Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking. Place the seasoned wings on the grill and cook for 15 to 20 minutes, turning occasionally until they are golden brown and have an internal temperature of 165°F.
Once the wings are grilled to perfection, transfer them to a serving platter. For an extra touch of flavor, sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese and minced parsley on top if desired. Serve your flavorful Grilled Lemon Pepper Chicken Wings with the creamy dipping sauce on the side.

Nutrition

Serving: 1wingCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 2gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 900mgPotassium: 250mgSugar: 1gCalcium: 20mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Patting the chicken wings dry before applying the spice rub helps achieve that coveted crispy exterior during grilling.

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