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

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.

Ingredients

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.

Instructions

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.

Notes

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.

Find it online: https://cookupjoy.com/honey-lemon-pepper-wings-2/