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Keto Lemon Pepper Chicken Wings - Crispy, Zesty, and Low-Carb

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • Chicken wings (party wings, flats and drumettes) – about 2 to 2.5 pounds
  • Aluminum-free baking powder (not baking soda) – 1 tablespoon
  • Kosher salt – 1 to 1.5 teaspoons, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper – 1.5 to 2 teaspoons
  • Garlic powder – 1 teaspoon
  • Onion powder – 1/2 teaspoon (optional but nice)
  • Lemons – 2 (you’ll use zest and juice)
  • Unsalted butter – 3 tablespoons (or ghee for dairy-free/paleo)
  • Olive oil or avocado oil – 1 tablespoon
  • Fresh parsley – a small handful for garnish (optional)

Method
 

  1. Prep the wings: Pat the chicken wings very dry with paper towels. Drier wings crisp better. If they’re whole, separate into flats and drumettes.
  2. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with foil for easy cleanup, then place a wire rack on top. Elevating the wings helps them crisp on all sides.
  3. Season the wings: In a large bowl, combine baking powder, salt, 1 teaspoon of black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Add the wings and toss until evenly coated. Drizzle with the oil and toss again.
  4. Arrange and bake: Place the wings on the rack in a single layer, skin side up, with space between each piece. Bake for 35–45 minutes, flipping once around the 25-minute mark. They’re done when deeply golden and crisp.
  5. Make the lemon-pepper butter: While the wings bake, melt the butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Zest both lemons and add the zest to the butter. Squeeze in 1–2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice. Stir in the remaining 1/2 to 1 teaspoon black pepper. Taste and adjust salt and lemon to your liking.
  6. Toss to finish: Transfer hot wings to a clean bowl. Pour over the lemon-pepper butter and toss until glossy and well coated. Sprinkle with chopped parsley and a little extra lemon zest for freshness.
  7. Serve: Plate immediately with lemon wedges on the side. Optional: add a final pinch of flaky salt for pop.