Honey Lemon Pepper Wings: A Flavorful Symphony of Sweet, Tangy, and Crispy

Posted: Jul 31, 2023 Last Modified: Dec 27, 2024 by Carmy

All you need are a few pantry staples to make these delicious honey lemon pepper wings. They’re so crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and coated in a sticky sweet and tangy sauce. These chicken wings are the perfect game-day appetizer or as an easy finger-licking dinner. They’re the kind of wings that make you want to lick your fingers clean and reach for another one (or five!).

Sweet, bright, and tangy, these honey lemon pepper wings are a simple but flavorful recipe that your whole family will love. As someone who is in love with bright, lemon flavors, it pairs so well with the sweetness of honey, so you know I had to combine these two flavors. And you know what else pairs well with lemon? Pepper. You will be licking your fingers clean with these chicken wings! The combination of honey, lemon, and pepper is a classic for a reason, and it works exceptionally well with crispy chicken wings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• It’s super simple to make! Toss the chicken wings in some seasoning and pop them into the oven, then combine the honey lemon pepper sauce ingredients in a saucepan. It’s easy, peasy, lemon, squeezy. Even beginner cooks can master this recipe.
• Chicken wings are always a hit! You can serve them as a snack, an appetizer, or turn them into a whole meal. It’s an all-rounder! They’re perfect for game day, parties, or a casual weeknight dinner.
• They are so crispy without being fried! The starch and baking powder help crisp up the wings and make for a crispy coating. You get all the crunch without the hassle of deep-frying.

Ingredient Insights: Pantry Staples Shine

Here’s a closer look at the ingredients that make these wings so irresistible:

• Chicken Wings: You can use a mixture of wingettes and drumettes or just one. It’s up to you. Choose your favorite or whatever is on sale! About 2 pounds.
• Potato Starch: You can use cornstarch as well. While I prefer making honey lemon pepper chicken wings using potato starch, you can use what you have on hand. Potato starch creates an extra-crispy coating. About 3 tablespoons.
• Baking Powder: 1 tablespoon. Adding baking powder to the chicken wings help them become more brown and crisp when baked. Do not swap for baking soda. This is the secret ingredient for achieving crispy skin without frying.
• Seasoning:
  • Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon. Adds a savory depth of flavor.
  • Onion Powder: 1 teaspoon. Enhances the overall flavor profile.
  • Paprika: ½ teaspoon. Adds a touch of warmth and color.
• Honey: ½ cup. I use pure liquid Ontario honey but a flavored honey would be fire in this recipe. Adds sweetness and helps create a sticky glaze.
• Lemon: You’ll need both lemon juice (¼ cup) and lemon zest (from 1 lemon). I love the bright citrus flavor and the tartness pairs well with the honey. Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the best flavor. Plus, you’ll need a lemon to zest, so you might as well juice it! Adds a bright, refreshing flavor that cuts through the richness of the chicken and honey.
• Garlic: 1 tablespoon. The more garlic, the better. I always have frozen minced garlic in the freezer, so it cuts down on the prep time. Adds a pungent, savory note that complements the honey and lemon.
• Butter: 1 tablespoon. I use unsalted butter. Adds richness and helps create a smooth, glossy sauce.

Equipment

• Large Bowl: For tossing the wings with the seasonings.
• Baking Sheet: For baking the wings.
• Parchment Paper: For lining the baking sheet and preventing sticking.
• Small Saucepan: For making the honey lemon pepper sauce.
• Whisk: For combining the sauce ingredients.

Step-by-Step Instructions: From Prep to Perfect Wings

(Full, detailed instructions with exact measurements will be included in the recipe card below. This is a general overview.)

1. Prepare the Wings:

• Pat the chicken wings dry with paper towels. This helps the seasonings adhere better and promotes crispier skin.
• In a large bowl, toss the wings with potato starch, baking powder, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika until evenly coated.

2. Bake the Wings:

• Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
• Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
• Arrange the wings in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
• Bake for 40-45 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the wings are cooked through and the skin is crispy.

3. Make the Honey Lemon Pepper Sauce:

• While the wings are baking, combine the honey, lemon zest, lemon juice, minced garlic, and butter in a small saucepan.
• Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the butter is melted and the sauce is smooth and slightly thickened.

4. Toss and Serve:

• Once the wings are cooked, transfer them to a large bowl.
• Pour the honey lemon pepper sauce over the wings and toss until they are evenly coated.
• Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips for Extra Crispy Wings:

• Pat the wings dry: Removing excess moisture from the skin is crucial for achieving crispiness.
• Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet: Make sure the wings are arranged in a single layer with some space between them. This allows for even cooking and better air circulation.
• Use a wire rack: For even crispier wings, place a wire rack on top of the baking sheet and bake the wings on the rack. This allows air to circulate all around the wings.
• Broil for the last few minutes: If you want extra crispy skin, broil the wings for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking time, keeping a close eye on them to prevent burning.

Variations and Substitutions:

• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the honey lemon pepper sauce for an extra kick.
• Herby Twist: Add some chopped fresh herbs, such as thyme or rosemary, to the sauce for a more complex flavor profile.
• Orange Honey Pepper Wings: Substitute orange juice and zest for the lemon for a different citrusy flavor.
• Maple Syrup: Use maple syrup instead of honey for a different type of sweetness.

Serving Suggestions:

• Game Day Appetizer: Serve these wings with celery sticks, carrot sticks, and your favorite dipping sauces, such as ranch or blue cheese dressing.
• Weeknight Dinner: Pair the wings with a side of roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple salad for a complete meal.
• Party Snack: These wings are always a hit at parties and gatherings.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):

Q: Can I use a different type of starch instead of potato starch? A: Yes, you can use cornstarch as a substitute.

Q: Can I make these wings in an air fryer? A: Absolutely! Air fry the wings at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until cooked through and crispy.

Q: Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh? A: Freshly squeezed lemon juice is always best for flavor, but bottled lemon juice will work in a pinch.

Q: How do I store leftover wings? A: Store leftover wings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer for best results.

Q: Can I make the sauce ahead of time? A: Yes, you can make the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop before tossing with the wings.

Enjoy These Finger-Licking Good Wings!

These Honey Lemon Pepper Wings are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. They’re easy to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for any occasion. So, preheat your oven, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy some seriously delicious wings!