Step-by-Step Instructions:
1️⃣ Make the Lemon Pepper Wings:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (or air fryer to 380°F). Line a baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top.
- Pat wings dry and toss with olive oil or melted butter. Season with lemon pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and salt.
- Arrange wings on the rack in a single layer. Bake for 40–45 minutes (flipping halfway) or air fry for 25–30 minutes, until crispy and golden.
- Optional: Toss with fresh lemon juice before serving for that zesty kick.
2️⃣ Cook the Yellow Rice:
- In a saucepan, heat oil or butter over medium heat. Add turmeric or saffron and stir to bloom the color.
- Add rice, broth, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18–20 minutes or until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
- Fluff with a fork before serving.
Make the Creamy Macaroni:
- Boil macaroni according to package directions; drain and set aside.
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook 1 minute to form a roux.
- Slowly whisk in milk, cooking until thickened (about 3–5 minutes). Stir in shredded cheese, salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Add the cooked macaroni and stir to coat. Keep warm until serving.
Pro Tips for Maximum Flavor:
- Ultra-crispy wings: Make sure wings are dry before seasoning, and bake on a wire rack.
- Brighten it up: Add lemon zest to the rice or wings for a fresh citrus pop.
- Cheese blend bonus: Mix in mozzarella, gouda, or pepper jack with cheddar for an extra-creamy mac.
Why You’ll Love This Meal:
- Full Comfort Combo: Tangy wings, rich mac, and flavorful rice—all bases covered.
- Perfectly Balanced: Zesty, savory, cheesy, and satisfying in every bite.
- Weeknight Win or Weekend Favorite: Easy enough for a weekday, crowd-pleasing for a get-together.
Nutritional Info (per serving, approx.):
- Calories: ~650
- Protein: ~35g
- Carbs: ~50g
- Fat: ~35g
- Fiber: ~2g
FAQ About Lemon Pepper Wings with Sides:
Can I make this ahead?
Yes! Wings can be baked ahead and reheated in the oven or air fryer to re-crisp. Rice and mac can be reheated with a splash of broth or milk.
Can I use boneless wings or thighs?
Absolutely! Just adjust the cook time and check for doneness.
Is yellow rice spicy?
Nope—it’s mild and savory. Want heat? Add a pinch of cayenne.
Troubleshooting & Tips:
- Wings not browning? Broil for 2–3 minutes at the end for extra crisp.
- Mac too thick? Stir in more milk until silky.
- Rice too mushy? Use a tight-fitting lid and reduce heat to a gentle simmer.
Flavor Twists to Try:
- Honey Lemon Pepper Wings: Add a drizzle of honey for sweet heat.
- Spicy Mac: Stir in jalapeños or chipotle powder.
- Cilantro Rice: Add chopped cilantro and lime juice for a fresh twist.
Perfect For:
- Game day eats
- Family dinners
- Meal prep lunches
- Potluck plates with flair
- Comfort food cravings!
The Ultimate Trio of Comfort and Flavor:
With crispy lemon pepper wings, buttery yellow rice, and creamy mac on the side, this plate is a knockout from start to finish. It’s the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table—and keeps them coming back for seconds.
Tried it? Show us your plate—we’re here for the mac scoops, wing stacks, and all the cheesy goodness!
