Nothing beats the irresistible charm of smoky, tender chicken wings kissed by bright citrus notes and bold spices. This Plank Grilled Lemon Pepper BBQ Chicken Wings Recipe takes your flavor game to new heights by combining the aromatic essence of cedar plank grilling with a zesty lemon pepper rub and an ultra-crispy finish. Whether you’re an experienced griller or diving into backyard cooking for the first time, this recipe invites you to create unforgettable wings that are bursting with personality and perfect for sharing with friends and family.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows two wooden rectangular boards filled with grilled chicken wings arranged in rows. Each wing is lightly browned with visible blackened spices and herbs on the surface, showing a textured, slightly crispy skin. On the edges of the boards, there are thin, round lemon slices, adding a bright yellow contrast to the warm tones of the chicken. A few sprigs of dried herbs lay near the lemons on the boards. The boards are placed on a grill with dark metal grates underneath. The background and surface around the boards have a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are delightfully straightforward yet essential for achieving that perfect balance of tang, spice, and smoky char. Each element plays a unique role, from creating a crispy skin to infusing deep, savory layers of flavor that complement the bright lemon pepper seasoning.

Baking powder: A secret weapon to help the wings crisp up beautifully during cooking.
Salt: Enhances the natural flavors and aids in drying out the skin for extra crunch.
Chicken wings: The star of the show, providing juicy meat and a perfect canvas for flavor.
Lemon pepper: Offers zesty citrus with a peppery kick, defining the taste profile.
Garlic powder: Adds savory depth and warmth to the seasoning blend.
Onion powder: Delivers a subtle sweetness and aromatic complexity.
Bone dust: A unique touch to enhance umami and give a rustic flavor.
Oil: Helps the seasoning stick and promotes crispness on the grill.
Cedar planks: Soaked before grilling to impart a wonderful smoky aroma that elevates the wings.

How to Make Plank Grilled Lemon Pepper BBQ Chicken Wings Recipe

Step 1: Prep the Wings Overnight

The night before grilling, toss the chicken wings in a combination of baking powder and salt. This mixture is essential for drying out the skin and ensuring a wonderfully crispy texture once cooked. After tossing, arrange the wings on a rack inside a baking sheet and place them uncovered in your fridge for approximately 24 hours. This patience pays off by setting the foundation for wings that are both crispy and juicy.

Step 2: Fire Up the Grill and Soak the Planks

Set your grill to 450°F while preparing for indirect cooking—meaning you’ll turn off the burner furthest from the gas tank if you only have two burners or leave the middle one off if you have three. Meanwhile, soak your cedar planks for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning and encourage a slow, fragrant smoke that seeps gently into the wings. You can preheat the soaked planks directly on the grill as it warms up to get them ready for cooking.

Step 3: Mix Seasonings and Oil the Wings

In a bowl, blend the lemon pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and bone dust to create a vibrant seasoning mix. Toss the chilled wings with oil—this step ensures that every bite is juicy and that the seasoning adheres perfectly. Then, roll each wing in your spice mix until evenly coated, laying them out on the soaked cedar planks to prepare for grilling.

Step 4: Grill the Wings on the Plank

Place the cedar planks topped with wings on the grill. Let them cook for 20 minutes on one side, then carefully flip the planks and grill for an additional 20 minutes. This method seals in moisture, develops crispness on the outside, and allows the smoky aroma to infuse the meat. You’re aiming for an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure perfect doneness.

How to Serve Plank Grilled Lemon Pepper BBQ Chicken Wings Recipe

Garnishes

Adding fresh garnishes can brighten the plate and complement the wings beautifully. Think freshly chopped parsley or cilantro, a sprinkle of extra lemon zest for zing, or even a dash of flaky sea salt right after grilling. A wedge of lemon on the side invites guests to add extra citrus burst if they desire.

Side Dishes

Wings are best enjoyed with a balance of crisp and refreshing sides. A crunchy coleslaw, grilled seasonal vegetables, or a simple garden salad with a light vinaigrette can counterbalance the savory richness. For something heartier, pair with baked potatoes or garlic bread to make it a filling feast.

Creative Ways to Present

For an eye-catching presentation, serve the wings stacked on the cedar plank itself, leveraging the rustic flair. Arrange alongside small bowls of creamy ranch or blue cheese dips. For a party vibe, add colorful toothpicks to each wing and set them out on a large platter garnished with fresh herbs and citrus slices.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any cooked chicken wings in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Proper storage helps maintain their flavor and texture, so you can enjoy them cold or reheated without disappointment.

Freezing

If you want to save some wings for later, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet first, then transfer to a freezer bag or container. This method prevents sticking and allows you to reheat individual portions as needed. Frozen wings stay good for up to 2 months.

Reheating

To bring those wings back to life, use an oven or air fryer for the best results—it helps regain crispness. Reheat at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the skin rubbery.

FAQs

Can I use other types of wood planks besides cedar?

Absolutely! While cedar adds a beautiful smoky aroma, you can experiment with other fruitwoods like apple or cherry for a different flavor. Just make sure to soak the planks to avoid flare-ups on the grill.

Is it necessary to dry the wings overnight?

Drying overnight improves crispiness by removing excess moisture from the skin, but if you’re short on time, steaming them for 10 minutes before seasoning and grilling is a great alternative.

What is bone dust and where do I find it?

Bone dust is finely ground bone used in barbecue to boost umami and flavor complexity. If you can’t find it at specialty stores, feel free to omit it or substitute with a pinch of smoked paprika for a similar smoky depth.

Can I make this recipe on a charcoal grill?

Yes! Just arrange your coals for indirect cooking and preheat the cedar planks as you would on a gas grill. The charcoal smoke adds an additional layer of flavor that pairs wonderfully with the lemon pepper seasoning.

How do I know when the wings are perfectly cooked?

The wings should reach an internal temperature of 165°F and have a crispy, golden exterior. Using a meat thermometer ensures food safety and helps avoid overcooking.

Final Thoughts

This Plank Grilled Lemon Pepper BBQ Chicken Wings Recipe is an absolute game-changer that brings together flavor, technique, and a sense of celebration in every bite. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or indulging in a solo indulgence, these wings invite you to elevate your grilling experience and savor the magical marriage of smoky cedar, zesty lemon, and bold pepper. Go ahead and give them a try—you might just discover your new favorite wing recipe!