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Sticky, Sweet, and Zesty: Honey Lemon Pepper Wings That Will Make You Lick Your Fingers

There’s something undeniably satisfying about a plate of perfectly cooked chicken wings. They’re the ultimate finger food, perfect for game day gatherings, casual weeknight dinners, or anytime you’re craving a flavor explosion. And when it comes to flavor, these Honey Lemon Pepper Wings deliver in a big way.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Wings:

  • Chicken Wings: 2 pounds of fresh chicken wings. You can use whole wings, or separated into drumettes and flats if you prefer. Using fresh wings is important to make sure they are juicy inside when baked.
  • Potato Starch: 3 tablespoons. This is our secret weapon for crispy skin. Potato starch creates a light, crispy coating that’s superior to flour in this application.
  • Baking Powder: 1 tablespoon. Another key to crispiness, baking powder helps to dry out the skin and create a beautiful golden-brown crust. Make sure to use aluminum free baking powder.
  • Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon. Adds a savory depth of flavor that complements the other ingredients.
  • Onion Powder: 1 teaspoon. Enhances the savory notes and adds a subtle sweetness.
  • Paprika: ¼ teaspoon. Contributes a touch of smokiness and a beautiful color.
  • Oil Spray: For spritzing the wings. A light coating of oil helps the wings to brown evenly and crisp up. Using a spray bottle will guarantee an even coat all over the wings.

For the Honey Lemon Pepper Sauce:

  • Honey: ½ cup. The star of the show! Use your favorite honey, but a good-quality wildflower honey will add a lovely floral note.
  • Lemon Zest: From 1 lemon. The zest adds a bright, citrusy aroma and intense lemon flavor.
  • Lemon Juice: ¼ cup (or more, to taste). Freshly squeezed is always best! The acidity balances the sweetness of the honey and cuts through the richness of the chicken.
  • Minced Garlic: 1 tablespoon. Adds a pungent, savory element that complements the honey and lemon.
  • Butter: 1 tablespoon. Adds richness and helps to create a smooth, glossy sauce. Using unsalted butter to control the amount of salt added.
  • Ground Pepper: 1-2 teaspoons. Freshly ground black pepper is essential for that signature kick. Adjust the amount to your preference.
  • Salt: A pinch, to enhance the flavors.

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. If your chicken wings are moist, pat them dry with a paper towel. This helps the seasonings adhere better and promotes crispier skin.

Coat the Wings:

  1. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the potato starch, baking powder, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
  2. Toss the Wings: Add the chicken wings to the bowl and toss until they are evenly coated with the dry mixture.

Bake to Perfection:

  1. Arrange on Baking Sheet: Lightly spray the parchment-lined baking sheet with oil. Arrange the wings in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they are not overcrowded.
  2. Initial Bake: Spray the tops of the wings with a bit more oil.
  3. Lower the heat: Decrease the oven temperature to 425°F (218°C) and bake for 35-40 minutes, flipping them halfway through and giving them another light spray of oil. The wings are done when they are golden brown, crispy, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when tested with a meat thermometer.

Make the Sauce:

  1. Simmer Sauce: While the wings are baking, prepare the honey lemon pepper sauce. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the honey, lemon zest, lemon juice, minced garlic, butter, salt, and pepper.
  2. Combine and Set Aside: Whisk until the butter is melted and all the ingredients are well combined. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 3-5 minutes, or until the sauce has slightly thickened. Set aside a small portion of the sauce for dipping, if desired.

Toss and Serve:

  1. Coat with Sauce: Once the wings are cooked, transfer them to a large, clean bowl. Pour the honey lemon pepper sauce over the wings and toss gently to coat them evenly.
  2. Serve Immediately: Serve the wings hot, with the reserved dipping sauce on the side, if desired.

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