
These crockpot lemon pepper chicken wings deliver everything you want from a wing tender meat that falls off the bone with a buttery, zesty punch and a crisp, golden finish from the broiler. The slow cooker does the hard work locking in flavor and tenderness while you go about your day. They are perfect for game day, a casual party, or just a simple, flavorful dinner with minimal fuss and maximum taste.
I first made this recipe for a weekend football party, and now it’s become my go to wing recipe because it’s so easy yet impressive. Everyone loves the crispy edges and tender meat every time.
Ingredients
- Chicken wings: fresh or fully thawed for even cooking
- Fresh lemon juice: provides sharp, zesty brightness that bottled juice cannot replicate
- Lemon zest: adds essential citrus oils that elevate the wings' flavor profile
- Butter: adds richness and helps carry the lemon flavor deeply into the wings
- Salt: enhances all the other flavors, bringing out the citrus and seasoning
- Black pepper: adds subtle heat and balances the brightness
- Smoked paprika: gives a warm, smoky depth that complements the lemon without overpowering
- Lemon pepper seasoning: finishes the wings with a crusty, flavorful coating under the broiler
- Fresh chopped parsley: adds a fresh herbaceous note and beautiful color at the end
Instructions
- Place the Wings into the Slow Cooker:
- Put the fresh or fully thawed chicken wings straight into your slow cooker ensuring they fit comfortably to cook evenly.
- Add Lemon Juice, Zest, and Seasonings:
- Pour fresh lemon juice over the wings and sprinkle the lemon zest evenly. Add softened butter, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. The butter will melt and mingle with the lemon to infuse rich citrus flavor throughout the wings.
- Cook on Low or High:
- Place the lid on and cook on low for four to five hours or on high for two to three hours until the wings are fall apart tender and reach an internal temperature of one hundred sixtyfive degrees Fahrenheit. This slow cooking ensures tenderness and flavor infusion.
- Prepare Broiler and Baking Sheet:
- Once cooked, preheat your broiler and line a rimmed baking sheet with foil. Spray or brush the sheet with oil or butter to prevent sticking.
- Broil and Season Wings:
- Transfer the wings to the baking sheet and brush them generously with the lemony, buttery sauce left in the slow cooker. Sprinkle lemon pepper seasoning on both sides of the wings. Broil for six to eight minutes, flipping halfway through, until the skin crisps and turns golden especially at the edges.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Once broiled, garnish with freshly chopped parsley and a few lemon slices. Serve immediately with your favorite dip such as ranch or a tangy lemon aioli for an extra flavor boost.

One memorable family meal involved a surprise game day crowd, and these wings disappeared so fast I knew this recipe would be a keeper for every occasion.
Storage Tips
Allow wings to cool fully before storing to avoid soggy skin from trapped steam. Place in an airtight container and refrigerate. They stay fresh for three to four days. Reheat under the broiler or in the oven to regain crispness.
Ingredient Substitutions
Butter can be swapped for olive oil if needed, though the buttery richness is unique. Use bottled lemon juice in a pinch but fresh lemon juice and zest provide a noticeably brighter, fresher taste. Smoked paprika can be replaced with regular paprika but you will lose the smoky nuance.
Serving Suggestions
Pair these wings with roasted vegetables or a simple crisp green salad for an easy dinner. They also shine as an appetizer pile them on a platter with lemon wedges and dips like ranch or lemon aioli to please any crowd.

These crockpot lemon pepper wings are easy to make and packed with bright, buttery flavor. Broil briefly to get crisp skin and serve hot.
Common Recipe Questions
- → What type of lemon flavor is used?
Fresh lemon juice and zest provide bright, zesty citrus oils that lift the wings’ flavor and add a natural tangy punch.
- → How long should the wings cook in the crockpot?
Cook on LOW for 4–5 hours or HIGH for 2–3 hours until the wings are tender and cook through to an internal temperature of 165°F.
- → Why broil the wings after slow cooking?
Broiling crisps up the skin and creates a flavorful crust from the lemon pepper seasoning, balancing tenderness with a golden, slightly crispy texture.
- → Can I substitute butter in the cooking process?
Butter is preferred for richness and carrying the lemon flavor, but olive oil can be used as a substitute if needed.
- → How should leftovers be stored?
Cool wings completely before refrigerating in an airtight container; they will keep fresh for 3 to 4 days.
- → What makes the smoky paprika important?
Smoked paprika adds depth and a subtle warmth that complements the zingy lemon and pepper seasonings, enhancing overall flavor.