Discover the delightful fusion of flavors in Honey Lemon Pepper Wings! These crispy oven-baked chicken wings are coated in a tantalizing sticky glaze that melds sweet honey with zesty lemon and a peppery kick. After multiple test runs, I’ve fine-tuned the recipe to ensure a satisfying crunch and mouthwatering taste. Perfect for gatherings or quiet nights in, these wings are a treat you’ll want to share. Be sure to check out my Thanksgiving Turkey Recipe for more delicious ideas!
About Honey Lemon Pepper Wings
This Honey Lemon Pepper Wings recipe takes the classic wing experience to new heights. With crispy skin and a sticky glaze, these wings quickly became a family favorite during my recipe testing. I loved serving them during weekend get-togethers, making it easy to entertain without breaking the bank. Whether it’s game day or just a cozy night at home, these wings are sure to impress.
- Quick prep time makes them a weeknight favorite.
- Budget-friendly and easy to scale for gatherings.
- A versatile dish that appeals to both kids and adults.
- Perfect for experimenting with seasonal ingredients or flavors.
Key Ingredients & Their Roles
- Chicken Wings: The main attraction; use a mix of drums and flats for texture.
- Lemon Juice: Adds brightness and enhances the sweetness of honey.
- Baking Powder: Ensures that wings get that ideal crispy exterior.
- Honey: Provides that irresistible sticky glaze — agave syrup can substitute if needed.
How to Make Honey Lemon Pepper Wings
- Preheat your oven to 425°F, filling your kitchen with the inviting scent of baked wings as they cook.
- In a large bowl, season the defrosted wings with lemon pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and baking powder, ensuring every piece is coated evenly. The baking powder is key for achieving that perfect crunch!
- Arrange the seasoned wings in a single layer on a wire rack, allowing air to circulate, and bake for 40 minutes, flipping them halfway for uniform crispness.
- While the wings bake, mix melted butter, honey, lemon zest, and lemon juice in a bowl. Once baked, toss the wings in this luscious sauce, then return them to the oven for an additional 10 minutes or until cooked through.
Pro Tips & Troubleshooting
- For extra crispy wings, pat them dry before seasoning to remove excess moisture.
- Common mistake: Using baking soda instead of baking powder will result in an off taste. Stick to baking powder for optimal crunch.
- Feel free to swap out lemon for other citrus, like lime or orange, for a unique twist on flavor.
- This recipe can easily be doubled for a big crowd — simply adjust the baking sheet size.
Storage & Make-Ahead Guide
Store leftover Honey Lemon Pepper Wings in the fridge for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze them in an airtight container for up to 3 months. When reheating, the oven is best; bake at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until heated through to maintain that crispy texture. I found that freezing does affect the crispy skin slightly, so enjoy them fresh for the best experience!
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Crunchy Honey Lemon Pepper Wings with a side of creamy coleslaw or potato wedges. For a lighter option, pair them with a fresh garden salad. Don’t forget to check out my One Pot Chicken and Rice Soup and Easy Creamy Lasagna Soup for more delicious pairings!
Frequently Asked Questions
- How long should I bake the wings for optimal crispiness? Bake for 40 minutes, flipping halfway for even cooking.
- Can I use frozen wings? Yes, just ensure they are fully thawed before seasoning.
- What can I use instead of honey? Agave syrup works well for a similar sweetness.
- How can I ensure even cooking? Arrange wings in a single layer on a wire rack to allow air circulation.
- Can I use an air fryer for this recipe? Absolutely! Air fry at 380°F for about 25-30 minutes for a quick and crispy option.
Final Thoughts
After diving into countless batches, Honey Lemon Pepper Wings emerged as a comfort food staple for my family. I love savoring these wings with friends and watching them disappear in minutes! I’d love to hear how they turn out for you, so don’t hesitate to share your results!
More Recipes You’ll Love
- Honey Glazed Chicken – a sweet and savory companion to wings.
- Lemon Garlic Chicken Thighs – shares a zesty flavor profile.
- Garlic Prawns – a perfect marinated dish to serve alongside.
Honey Lemon Pepper Wings
Ingredients
- 2.5 lbs Chicken Wings drums and flats (defrosted if frozen)
- 2 teaspoons Lemon Pepper Seasonings
- 2 teaspoons Paprika
- 2 teaspoons Garlic Powder
- sea salt Sea Salt to taste
- freshly ground pepper Freshly Ground Pepper to taste
- 3 teaspoons Baking Powder not baking soda
- 1/4 cup butter melted
- 1/3 cup honey
- 1 zest lemon from one lemon
- 1 tablespoon Lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons Lemon pepper seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon red crushed pepper optional
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F.
- Season the wings with the seasonings and baking powder.
- Place the seasoned wings on an oven-safe wire rack in a single layer. Bake for 40 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- In a small bowl, combine the ingredients for the honey lemon pepper sauce.
- Toss the wings in the honey lemon pepper sauce and bake for another 10 minutes, or until fully cooked and reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Toss the wings in more honey lemon pepper sauce and enjoy!