Honey Lemon Pepper Wings

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Honey Lemon Pepper Wings

These Honey Lemon Pepper Wings are the ultimate combination of crispy, juicy, and irresistibly flavorful. Each wing is perfectly seasoned, baked (or fried) to golden perfection, and coated in a glossy honey lemon pepper sauce that strikes the ideal balance of sweet, tangy, and peppery. Whether you serve them as a party appetizer, a game day favorite, or a simple family dinner, these wings are guaranteed to impress every time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Crispy texture without deep frying – thanks to baking powder and high-heat baking.
  • Perfectly balanced flavor – sweet honey, zesty lemon, and cracked black pepper come together in harmony.
  • Customizable cooking methods – bake, fry, or air fry depending on your preference.
  • Simple ingredients, restaurant-quality results – a few pantry staples create something extraordinary.

Ingredients

For the Wings:

  • 1.5 lbs chicken wings (about 24 pieces), split into drumettes and flats
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder (optional, but highly recommended for extra crispiness)
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (only if baking)

For the Honey Lemon Pepper Sauce:

  • ¼ cup butter (56 g)
  • ⅓ cup honey (113 g)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (from 1 large lemon)
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 1 teaspoon cracked black pepper (adjust to taste)
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Wings

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top. Lightly grease the rack with non-stick spray or a thin layer of oil to prevent sticking.
  2. Pat the chicken wings completely dry with paper towels. Removing moisture is key to achieving crispy skin.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and baking powder. Toss the wings in the mixture until they are evenly coated. Gently massage the seasoning into the wings for maximum flavor.

Step 2: Choose Your Cooking Method

To Bake:

  1. Drizzle the seasoned wings with 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil and toss to coat.
  2. Arrange the wings on the prepared rack in a single layer, leaving space between each piece.
  3. Bake for 40–45 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden, crisp, and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F / 74°C).

To Fry:

  1. Heat oil in a deep skillet or pot to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Fry the wings in small batches for 8–10 minutes, until golden brown and crispy.
  3. Remove and drain on paper towels.

To Air Fry:

  1. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Arrange wings in a single layer in the basket and cook for 20–25 minutes, shaking halfway through.

Step 3: Make the Honey Lemon Pepper Sauce

  1. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
  2. Stir in honey, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Whisk well to combine.
  3. Add cracked black pepper and a small pinch of salt. Simmer the sauce for 2–3 minutes, stirring often, until it slightly thickens and becomes glossy.
  4. Taste and adjust seasoning — add more honey for sweetness, more lemon for tang, or extra pepper for heat.

Step 4: Toss and Serve

  1. Transfer the hot cooked wings to a large mixing bowl.
  2. Pour the warm honey lemon pepper sauce over them. Toss thoroughly until each wing is evenly coated and glistening.
  3. Serve immediately while hot and crispy. Garnish with additional cracked pepper or a sprinkle of lemon zest if desired.

Expert Tips for Perfect Wings

  • Dry thoroughly: Moisture is the enemy of crispiness. Always pat wings dry before seasoning.
  • Use baking powder (not baking soda): It helps render the fat and creates a crunchy exterior without an unpleasant taste.
  • Avoid overcrowding: Whether baking or air frying, leave space between wings for proper airflow and even crisping.
  • Adjust sauce thickness: If it’s too thick, add a teaspoon of lemon juice or water. If too thin, simmer for another minute.
  • Serve immediately: Wings are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven or fryer while the sauce is still warm and sticky.

Flavor Variations

  • Spicy Honey Lemon Pepper Wings: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few drops of hot sauce to the glaze.
  • Garlic Honey Lemon Wings: Add 1–2 minced garlic cloves to the melted butter before stirring in honey and lemon.
  • Dairy-Free Option: Replace butter with olive oil or a plant-based alternative.
  • Extra Crispy Wings: Lightly dust the wings with cornstarch before cooking.
  • Herb Infusion: Stir in chopped thyme or rosemary for an aromatic twist.

Serving Suggestions

These honey lemon pepper wings are incredibly versatile. Serve them as an appetizer or a main dish with any of the following sides:

  • Creamy Coleslaw – adds cool crunch and balances the sweetness.
  • Garlic Mashed Potatoes – for a comforting, hearty side.
  • Cornbread or Biscuits – perfect for soaking up leftover sauce.
  • Celery and Carrot Sticks – a refreshing, classic pairing.

Storage and Reheating

  • Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes, or in the air fryer for 5–7 minutes to maintain crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it softens the skin.
  • Make Ahead: You can season the wings a day ahead and refrigerate. Prepare the sauce separately and reheat just before tossing with fresh-cooked wings.

Final Thoughts

These Honey Lemon Pepper Wings deliver everything you crave — crispiness, tenderness, and a sticky, tangy glaze that makes every bite unforgettable. They’re easy to make, customizable, and guaranteed to be a crowd favorite at any gathering. Once you try them, they’ll quickly become a regular feature in your kitchen.

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