A Perfect Combination of Sweet, Tangy, and Savory
If you love the satisfying crunch of crispy chicken wings paired with a flavorful glaze, Crispy Honey Lemon Pepper Wings will quickly become your go-to recipe. These wings are not only easy to make but also pack a punch with their sweet honey, zesty lemon, and spicy black pepper flavors. Perfect for game days, family gatherings, or even a midweek treat, this recipe will leave everyone wanting more.
Let’s dive into the details to make this crowd-pleasing dish at home.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Perfectly Crispy: The potato starch and baking powder ensure a golden, crunchy exterior.
- Balanced Flavor: Sweet honey, tangy lemon, and peppery spice come together in harmony.
- Simple Ingredients: Everything you need is likely already in your kitchen.
- Baked, Not Fried: A healthier option without sacrificing crunch.
- Versatile: Adjust the spice level or sweetness to suit your taste.
Ingredients for Crispy Honey Lemon Pepper Wings
For the Chicken Wings
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Chicken wings | 2 pounds |
| Potato starch | 3 tablespoons |
| Baking powder | 1 tablespoon |
| Garlic powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Onion powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Paprika | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Oil spray | As needed |
For the Honey Lemon Pepper Sauce
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Honey | 1/2 cup |
| Lemon (zested) | 1 |
| Lemon juice | 1/4 cup (or more) |
| Minced garlic | 1 tablespoon |
| Butter | 1 tablespoon |
| Ground pepper | 1-2 teaspoons |
| Salt | Pinch |
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken Wings
- Preheat your oven to 450°F. Line a sheet pan with parchment paper and lightly spray with oil.
- Pat the chicken wings dry with a paper towel to remove any moisture. This step helps achieve a crispy texture.
- In a large bowl, toss the chicken wings with potato starch, baking powder, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Ensure each wing is evenly coated.
- Arrange the wings in a single layer on the prepared sheet pan. Spray the tops with a light coating of oil.
- Lower the oven temperature to 425°F. Bake for 35-40 minutes, flipping the wings halfway through and spraying more oil on the tops.
2. Make the Honey Lemon Pepper Sauce
- While the wings bake, combine honey, lemon zest, lemon juice, minced garlic, butter, salt, and ground pepper in a small saucepan.
- Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly, until well combined.
- Simmer for 3-5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Remove from heat and set aside. For extra dipping sauce, reserve a small portion.
3. Coat the Wings
- Once the wings are baked to a crispy golden brown, transfer them to a large mixing bowl.
- Pour the honey lemon pepper sauce over the wings and toss until evenly coated.
4. Serve and Enjoy
- Arrange the wings on a platter and serve hot.
- Garnish with extra lemon zest or freshly cracked black pepper if desired.
- Pair with celery sticks, ranch, or blue cheese dressing for dipping.
Tips for Success
Dry the Wings Thoroughly
- Removing moisture ensures a crispy exterior when baked.
Don’t Skip the Baking Powder
- This ingredient helps create a light, crunchy texture by altering the pH level of the chicken skin.
Adjust the Sauce to Your Liking
- Add more lemon juice for extra tang or increase the pepper for a spicier kick.
Flip for Even Cooking
- Turning the wings halfway through baking ensures they cook evenly on all sides.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Per Serving (4-5 wings) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 310 |
| Protein | 25g |
| Fat | 15g |
| Carbohydrates | 18g |
| Fiber | 0g |
| Sodium | 450mg |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I Make These Wings in an Air Fryer?
Yes! Cook the wings in a preheated air fryer at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
2. What Other Flours Can I Use Instead of Potato Starch?
Cornstarch or rice flour can also create a crispy coating.
3. How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store cooled wings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer for best results.
4. Can I Use Pre-Cooked Chicken Wings?
Yes, but reduce the baking time as needed to avoid overcooking.
5. How Can I Make the Sauce Spicier?
Add cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce to the honey lemon pepper mixture.
6. Can I Freeze These Wings?
Freeze baked wings without sauce in a single layer on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag. Reheat and toss with sauce before serving.
Serving Suggestions
| Side Dish | Why It Works |
|---|---|
| Sweet potato fries | Balances the tangy sauce |
| Coleslaw | Adds a refreshing crunch |
| Mixed greens salad | Lightens the meal |
Bring Restaurant-Quality Wings Home
Crispy Honey Lemon Pepper Wings offer the perfect balance of crunch, sweetness, and zest. Whether you’re hosting a game night, preparing a family dinner, or simply satisfying a wing craving, this recipe delivers every time. With simple ingredients and an easy process, you can enjoy a restaurant-quality dish without leaving your kitchen.
Ready to wow your taste buds? Preheat your oven, gather your ingredients, and start creating these unforgettable wings today!
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Crispy Honey Lemon Pepper Wings
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
Indulge in the irresistible combination of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors with Crispy Honey Lemon Pepper Wings. These wings boast a perfectly crunchy texture thanks to a unique baking method and are coated in a zesty honey-lemon pepper glaze that will leave you licking your fingers. Ideal for game days, parties, or any time you crave wings, this easy-to-make recipe brings restaurant-quality flavor straight to your table.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Wings:
- 2 pounds chicken wings
- 3 tablespoons potato starch
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- Oil spray (as needed)
For the Honey Lemon Pepper Sauce:
- 1/2 cup honey
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1–2 teaspoons ground black pepper (adjust to taste)
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken Wings
- Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly coat it with oil spray.
- Pat the chicken wings dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This step ensures a crispy texture.
- In a large bowl, toss the wings with potato starch, baking powder, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika until evenly coated.
- Arrange the wings in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Spray the tops lightly with oil spray.
2. Bake the Wings
- Lower the oven temperature to 425°F (218°C).
- Bake the wings for 35-40 minutes, flipping them halfway through and spraying the tops with more oil. The wings should be golden brown and crispy.
3. Make the Honey Lemon Pepper Sauce
- In a small saucepan, combine honey, lemon zest, lemon juice, minced garlic, butter, ground black pepper, and a pinch of salt.
- Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring frequently, until well combined and slightly thickened (about 3-5 minutes).
- Remove the sauce from heat and set it aside. For extra dipping sauce, reserve a small portion.
4. Coat the Wings
- Transfer the baked wings to a large mixing bowl.
- Pour the honey lemon pepper sauce over the wings and toss gently to coat evenly.
5. Serve and Enjoy
- Arrange the wings on a serving platter and garnish with extra lemon zest or freshly cracked black pepper, if desired.
- Serve hot with your favorite sides like celery sticks, ranch dressing, or blue cheese dip.
Notes
- Air Fryer Option: Cook the wings in a preheated air fryer at 400°F (204°C) for 20-25 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
- Customizable Sauce: Adjust the lemon juice, honey, or pepper to match your desired balance of sweet, tangy, and spicy.
- Make Ahead: The sauce can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
