Crockpot Lemon Pepper Wings

These crockpot lemon pepper chicken wings deliver juicy, tender meat infused with bright citrus and rich buttery flavors. Cooking low and slow in the crockpot makes the wings falloffthebone tender while the final broiler step crisps and caramelizes the skin to golden perfection. This recipe balances bold lemon zest and juice with warming spices to create a snack or meal that is easy yet impressive, perfect for game days, parties, or a fuss free dinner.

I first made this dish on a busy weekend and was amazed how the slow cooker transformed simple wings into something restaurant worthy. Now my family always asks for these whenever wings are on the menu.

Ingredients

• Chicken wings: fresh or fully thawed for even cooking in the crockpot
• Lemon juice: fresh squeezed for a bright, punchy citrus flavor bottled lemon juice just won’t match
• Lemon zest: brings essential oils from the lemon peel that lift the entire dish with fresh brightness
• Butter: adds richness and carries the lemon flavor throughout the wings, you can swap olive oil but butter is best
• Salt: enhances and balances all the flavors in the dish especially with citrus involved
• Black pepper: adds a subtle heat and grounding note against the lemon brightness
• Smoked paprika: gives a gentle smoky warmth that rounds out the spice profile beautifully
• Lemon pepper seasoning: used at the end to create a flavorful crust and heighten zingy lemon notes
• Fresh chopped parsley: optional for a pop of color and fresh herbal brightness on top

Instructions

Sauté the Aromatics:

Place chicken wings directly into the slow cooker. Pour over fresh lemon juice and lemon zest to deliver citrus flavor deeply into the meat. Add butter, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika to build layers of richness and subtle warmth.

Slow Cook the Wings:

Cover the slow cooker and cook on LOW for 4 to 5 hours or on HIGH for 2 to 3 hours. Cook until wings are tender enough to fall off the bone and reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit for safe eating.

Prepare for Broiling:

Preheat the broiler and line a rimmed baking sheet with foil. Lightly spray or brush the foil with oil or butter to prevent sticking when broiling.

Move to Broiler:

Transfer the cooked wings carefully onto the prepared baking sheet. Brush them with the buttery lemon sauce that collected in the slow cooker for extra flavor and moisture.

Crisp the Skin:

Sprinkle lemon pepper seasoning over both sides of the wings. Broil for 6 to 8 minutes flipping halfway through. Watch closely as broilers vary and skin can go from crispy to burnt quickly. The goal is to develop a golden, slightly crispy exterior.

Garnish and Serve:

Finish with freshly chopped parsley and a few lemon slices for brightness. Serve the wings hot with your favorite dips such as ranch or lemon aioli.

I love the fresh lemon zest the most because it adds an aromatic brightness that wakes up the whole dish. One special time my family gathered around the table and everyone praised how juicy and flavorful the wings were. It instantly became a favorite.

Storage tips

Always cool the wings completely before placing them in the fridge to avoid sogginess from trapped steam. Store leftovers in an airtight container where they will stay good for three to four days. Reheat gently in the oven or air fryer to refresh crispiness.

Ingredient substitutions

If fresh lemons are not available, use bottled lemon juice sparingly but add extra lemon zest or a splash of white vinegar for acidity. Substitute butter with olive oil or ghee if desired, though butter offers the best richness. Smoked paprika can be swapped for regular paprika plus a small pinch of cayenne for a smoked heat.

Serving suggestions

Serve alongside roasted vegetables or a crisp green salad for a complete meal. These wings also shine as finger food at parties or game day with dips like ranch, blue cheese, or lemon aioli for a zesty twist. Add some fresh lemon wedges on the side for guests who want extra zing.

These lemon pepper wings are easy to make and perfect for gatherings. They reheat well and retain their bright flavor and crispness.

FAQs About This Recipe

→ What cooking time works best for tender wings?

Cook on LOW for 4 to 5 hours or on HIGH for 2 to 3 hours to achieve fall-off-the-bone tenderness.

→ Why is broiling necessary after slow cooking?

Broiling crisps the skin and caramelizes the lemon pepper seasoning, adding a golden, crunchy finish.

→ Can I use frozen wings?

It's best to use fresh or fully thawed wings to ensure even cooking and proper texture.

→ What role does butter play in the dish?

Butter adds richness and helps carry the lemon flavor throughout the wings for a luscious taste.

→ How should leftovers be stored?

Let wings cool completely before refrigerating in an airtight container; they last 3 to 4 days refrigerated.

→ What seasoning adds smoky depth?

Smoked paprika provides a subtle warmth that complements the citrus notes beautifully.