Prepare the Wings

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Pat the wings dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. In a mixing bowl, toss the wings with baking powder, salt, and a sprinkle of black pepper. This will help them crisp up in the oven.

Bake the Wings

Place a wire rack over a baking sheet and arrange the wings in a single layer on the rack (this helps air circulate for even crisping). Bake for 40-45 minutes, flipping halfway, until the wings are golden and crispy. For extra crispiness, broil for 2-3 minutes at the end.

Air Fryer Method: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and air-fry the wings for 20-25 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.

Prepare the Lemon Pepper Sauce

In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, black pepper, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt. If desired, add honey or brown sugar to balance the tartness. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, then remove from heat.

Toss the Wings in Sauce

Place the baked wings in a large bowl and pour the lemon pepper sauce over them. Toss well to coat each wing evenly with the sauce. If you prefer, use a basting brush to coat each wing individually for a more controlled application.

Serve

Transfer the wings to a serving platter, garnish with extra lemon zest and cracked pepper if desired, and serve immediately. These wings are best enjoyed hot and fresh.