Why You Will Love This Grilled Garlic Lemon Pepper Wings Recipe
You are going to love these wings because they combine a savory lemon pepper marinade with that smoky grill taste we crave this time of year! These wings are incredibly simple to make and are the perfect addition to your summer cookout. The sauce is buttery, garlicky, and has a bright citrus punch that pulls everything together. Make these, and they’ll be gone before they even hit the plate!
Ingredients
- Chicken Wings: I like to use a mix of flats and drums, patted dry so the marinade really sticks.
- Fresh Garlic: We’re using smashed cloves in the marinade and minced garlic in the sauce for a double hit of flavor.
- Lemon Zest and Juice: This provides that signature zing that makes lemon pepper wings so iconic.
- Knorr Liquid Seasoning: My secret for adding a deep, savory umami base to the chicken.
- Pepper, Garlic Powder, and Paprika: A simple spice blend that gives the wings a beautiful color and a classic peppery bite.
- Butter: The base of our tossing sauce that makes the wings rich and glossy.
- Red Pepper Flakes: Adds just a tiny hint of heat to balance out the citrus.
- Fresh Parsley: For a pop of color and an earthy, fresh finish.
How to Make Grilled Garlic Lemon Pepper Wings
To get started, you’ll want to prep your marinade by combining the smashed garlic, lemon zest, Knorr liquid seasoning, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Toss your wings in this mixture, making sure every piece is well-coated. For the best results, let them marinate for at least five hours, but overnight is even better if you want that flavor to really sink into the meat!
When you’re ready to cook, fire up the grill. Place your wings over the heat and grill them, turning occasionally, until they are fully cooked through and have those beautiful, crispy char marks. While the wings are picking up that smoky flavor, you can whip up the sauce. In a small pan, sauté your minced garlic in a stick of butter until it’s fragrant. Squeeze in your lemon juice and sprinkle in the red pepper flakes and fresh parsley. Give it a good mix and keep it warm. Once the wings come off the grill, toss them immediately into that garlicky butter sauce while they’re still hot. Finish them off with an extra sprinkle of lemon zest and more fresh parsley.
Tips for the Best Grilled Garlic Lemon Pepper Wings
- Don’t skip the marinating time! Letting the chicken sit for at least five hours is what ensures the lemon and garlic flavor goes all the way to the bone.
- When grilling, keep an eye on your heat levels so you get a good char without burning the skin before the inside is done.
- Also, always use fresh lemon zest; the oils in the peel have way more flavor than the juice alone!
Variations & Substitutions
If you don’t have a grill, you can make these in the oven or an air fryer at 400°F until they are crispy, then toss them in the same sauce. For a spicier wing, you can increase the red pepper flakes or add minced Thai chili to the butter. If you’re out of Knorr seasoning, use soy sauce as an alternative.
Other Recipes You Will Love
If you loved this, you have to try my Grilled Garlic Butter Elote, Grilled Steak Pasta Salad or Grilled Tomahawk Steak!
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Grilled Garlic Lemon Pepper Wings
Description
These Grilled Garlic Lemon Pepper Wings are perfect for grill day! A fun twist on classic Lemon Pepper Wings.
Ingredients
Marinade
Garlic Sauce
Instructions
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In a large bowl, combine the wings with smashed garlic, lemon zest, Knorr liquid seasoning, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
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Marinate the wings in the refrigerator for at least 5 hours or overnight for the best flavor.
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Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the wings for about 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally, until the skin is charred and the chicken is fully cooked.
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While the wings are grilling, melt the butter in a small pan over medium heat. Sauté the minced garlic until fragrant.
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Stir in the juice from one lemon, red pepper flakes, and half of the chopped parsley.
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Remove the wings from the grill and place them in a large bowl. Pour the garlic butter sauce over the wings and toss until well-coated.
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Garnish with the remaining lemon zest and parsley before serving.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 2
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 420kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 34g53%
- Sodium 680mg29%
- Total Carbohydrate 3g1%
- Sugars 1g
- Protein 26g52%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
