Honey Lemon Pepper Wings
Looking for a wing recipe that’s both crispy and bursting with flavor? These Honey Lemon Pepper Wings are the perfect combination of sweet, tangy, and just the right amount of heat. Every bite is a flavor explosion!
The wings are crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and coated in a mouthwatering honey lemon pepper sauce. You’ll love how easy they are to make, and they’re perfect for any occasion – from casual dinners to game days!
Imagine sinking your teeth into golden, perfectly seasoned wings with that irresistible honey lemon pepper sauce. Whether served as a snack or a main dish, these wings are guaranteed to be a hit with family and friends.
Ready to give these wings a try? Grab your ingredients, and let’s get cooking – you’ll be enjoying a plate of these flavorful wings in no time!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Flavor Explosion: The sweet and tangy honey and lemon come together beautifully, complemented by the sharp pepper, creating an unforgettable taste.
- Crispy Wings: The baking powder trick gives the wings a crispy texture on the outside while keeping them juicy inside.
- Quick & Easy: From prep to plate in about 40 minutes.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: These wings are fantastic for game day, potlucks, or simply as a flavorful dinner.
- Customizable: You can adjust the level of sweetness or spice to match your preferences.
Required Kitchen Tools
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper (optional)
- Large mixing bowl
- Small saucepan
- Basting brush (optional)
- Meat thermometer (for perfectly cooked wings)
Ingredients for Honey Lemon Pepper Wings
For the chicken wings, here’s what you’ll need (exact measurements are in the recipe card below):
- Chicken Wings (2 pounds): Fresh or frozen, both work great.
- Potato Starch (3 tablespoons): Helps achieve a crispy skin.
- Baking Powder (1 tablespoon): This ensures the wings crisp up perfectly in the oven.
- Garlic Powder (1 teaspoon): For an extra layer of flavor.
- Onion Powder (1 teaspoon): Adds richness to the seasoning.
- Paprika (¼ teaspoon): For color and a subtle smoky flavor.
- Oil Spray: To help with crispiness.
For the Honey Lemon Pepper Sauce, you’ll need:
- Honey (½ cup): The sweetness that balances the tangy lemon.
- Lemon Zest (1 lemon): For a fresh, fragrant citrus flavor.
- Lemon Juice (¼ cup, or more for extra tang): Adds the citrusy zing to the sauce.
- Minced Garlic (1 tablespoon): Enhances the flavor with a savory touch.
- Butter (1 tablespoon): Adds richness and helps bind the sauce.
- Ground Pepper (1-2 teaspoons): For that signature peppery kick.
- Salt (a pinch): To bring everything together.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken Wings
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. In a large bowl, combine the potato starch, baking powder, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Toss the chicken wings in this mixture until they’re evenly coated. This will give your wings that crispy, golden exterior. Lightly spray the wings with oil to ensure they crisp up beautifully.
2. Bake the Wings
Place the wings on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer, making sure they’re not overcrowded. Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even cooking. The wings should be golden and crispy when done. To be sure they’re fully cooked, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature — it should read at least 165°F.
3. Prepare the Honey Lemon Pepper Sauce
While the wings are baking, make the sauce. In a small saucepan, combine the honey, lemon zest, lemon juice, minced garlic, butter, ground pepper, and salt. Heat over medium-low, stirring occasionally until the butter is melted and the sauce is well combined. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, then remove from heat.
4. Coat the Wings
Once the wings are cooked and crispy, remove them from the oven. Pour the honey lemon pepper sauce over the wings, tossing them to coat thoroughly. If you like a more intense flavor, brush the wings with extra sauce using a basting brush.
Serving and Decoration
How to Serve Honey Lemon Pepper Wings
These wings are perfect for serving as a snack, appetizer, or a main dish:
- As an Appetizer: Serve them on a platter with some dipping sauces like ranch or blue cheese.
- For Game Day: Pair them with a side of crispy fries or onion rings for the ultimate snack spread.
- With a Side Salad: Serve alongside a light green salad or coleslaw to balance the richness of the wings.
- In Wraps or Tacos: Use them as a filling in wraps or tacos for a delicious twist on your usual meals.
Storing Honey Lemon Pepper Wings
- Leftovers: Store any leftover wings in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes to restore their crispiness.
- Freezing: You can freeze the wings after cooking and coat them with sauce once reheated. Store them in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. When ready to eat, reheat in the oven and coat with the sauce.
Nutrition Information
Serving Size | Calories | Protein | Carbs | Fat |
---|---|---|---|---|
4 wings | 300 | 20g | 15g | 20g |
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and based on 2 pounds of chicken wings with sauce.
Conclusion
These Honey Lemon Pepper Wings are sure to become your go-to recipe for delicious, crispy wings. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll be able to enjoy this sweet and tangy dish in no time. Whether you’re preparing them for a casual dinner or a special occasion, these wings will definitely impress your guests.
Honey Lemon Pepper Wings FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken wings?
Yes, frozen chicken wings work well! Just make sure to thaw them before cooking to ensure even crisping.
Can I adjust the sweetness of the sauce?
Absolutely! If you prefer a sweeter sauce, just add a little more honey. For a tangier sauce, increase the lemon juice.
How do I make the wings extra crispy?
Make sure to coat the wings evenly with the baking powder and potato starch mixture. Also, spray them with oil to help them crisp up during baking.