Honey Lemon Pepper Wings

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. These chicken wings are the perfect game-day appetizer or as an easy finger-licking dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy Texture – These wings achieve the perfect crunch thanks to the potato starch and baking powder.
• Sweet and Tangy Flavor – The combination of honey and lemon creates a delightful balance that tantalizes your taste buds.
• Easy Preparation – With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, making these wings is a breeze.
• Versatile Dish – Serve them as an appetizer at parties or as a main course for family dinners; they fit any occasion.
• Healthier Baking Method – Baking instead of frying helps reduce oil usage while still delivering fantastic flavor.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather your tools. Having everything on hand makes the process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Mixing bowl
• Small saucepan
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet – Provides a sturdy base for evenly cooking your wings.
• Parchment paper – Prevents sticking and ensures easy cleanup after baking.
• Mixing bowl – Essential for tossing the wings with seasonings for even coating.

Ingredients

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. These chicken wings are the perfect game-day appetizer or as an easy finger-licking dinner.

Ingredients:
– 2 pounds chicken wings
– 3 tablespoons potato starch
– 1 tablespoon baking powder
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– ¼ teaspoon paprika
– oil spray
– ½ cup honey
– 1 lemon zested
– ¼ cup lemon juice (or more)
– 1 tablespoon minced garlic
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1–2 teaspoons ground pepper
– 1 pinch salt

How to Make Honey Lemon Pepper Wings

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Heat the oven to 450°F. Pat dry the chicken wings with a paper towel if they are moist.

Step 2: Prepare the Wings

Add the potato starch, baking powder, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika to the chicken wings. Toss to coat thoroughly.

Step 3: Arrange for Baking

Lightly spray some oil onto a parchment-lined sheet pan. Transfer the chicken wings to the sheet pan in a single layer. Spray the tops of the chicken with some more oil.

Step 4: Bake the Wings

Decrease the oven temperature to 425°F. Bake the chicken wings for 35 to 40 minutes (depending on their size), flipping them at halfway through cooking time. Spray some more oil on top when flipping.

Step 5: Make the Sauce

In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine honey, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, butter, salt, and pepper. Stir and simmer for 3 to 5 minutes until everything is well combined. Set aside a small portion for dipping if desired.

Step 6: Coat with Sauce

Once baked, transfer the wings to a bowl and toss them in your prepared honey lemon pepper sauce until fully coated. Enjoy!

How to Serve Honey Lemon Pepper Wings

Honey lemon pepper wings are a delightful treat that can be served in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a cozy dinner at home, these wings can be paired with numerous sides and dips to elevate your meal.

With Dipping Sauces

• Ranch Dressing: A classic choice, ranch dressing complements the tangy flavor of the wings.
• Blue Cheese Dressing: For those who enjoy bold flavors, blue cheese adds a rich creaminess that pairs well.
• Extra Honey Lemon Sauce: Drizzle some reserved sauce over the wings for an extra burst of flavor.

On a Bed of Greens

• Mixed Green Salad: Serve the wings on top of a fresh salad with your favorite vinaigrette for a healthier option.
• Coleslaw: The crunchiness of coleslaw balances the juicy wings perfectly.

As Part of a Platter

• Wing Platter: Arrange the honey lemon pepper wings alongside other flavors like buffalo or teriyaki for variety.
• Vegetable Platter: Pair with fresh veggies like carrots and celery for a crunchy contrast.

With Drinks

• Beer: A cold beer complements the savory and sweet profile of the wings exceptionally well.
• Lemonade: A refreshing lemonade echoes the citrus notes in the wings while balancing their richness.

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How to Perfect Honey Lemon Pepper Wings

To ensure your honey lemon pepper wings turn out perfect every time, follow these simple tips. They will help you achieve crispy skin and flavorful meat.

• Use Potato Starch: This key ingredient helps create an extra crispy texture when baked.
• Pat Dry the Wings: Drying the chicken wings before seasoning is essential for getting that perfect crispiness.
• Flip Halfway Through Baking: Turning the wings ensures even cooking and browning on all sides.
• Adjust Baking Time: Depending on wing size, adjust cooking times to avoid undercooking or burning.
• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to tweak the spice blend to suit your taste preferences.
• Let Them Rest After Baking: Allowing wings to rest for a few minutes after baking helps maintain moisture inside.

Best Side Dishes for Honey Lemon Pepper Wings

Pairing delicious sides with honey lemon pepper wings can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options that complement their flavor beautifully.

1. French Fries: Crispy fries are always a crowd-pleaser; serve them hot and salted for deliciousness.
2. Sweet Potato Fries: These provide a sweet contrast to the tangy wings. Bake or fry until golden brown.
3. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn adds sweetness and freshness to your meal.
4. Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce from your plate.
5. Macaroni and Cheese: Creamy mac and cheese offers comfort and richness alongside spicy flavors.
6. Potato Salad: A chilled potato salad provides coolness against warm, spicy chicken wings.
7. Baked Beans: Sweet and savory baked beans offer depth that pairs well with wing flavors.
8. Cucumber Salad: A light cucumber salad adds freshness and crunch, balancing out richer dishes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making honey lemon pepper wings, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps that can affect the final dish. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the Drying Step: Not patting the chicken wings dry can lead to soggy skin. Always ensure the wings are moisture-free before seasoning.
• Incorrect Oven Temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature can result in wings that are undercooked or burnt. Stick to the specified temperatures for perfect results.
• Overcrowding the Pan: Placing too many wings on the baking sheet can cause uneven cooking. Arrange them in a single layer for optimal crispiness.
• Ignoring the Sauce Timing: Adding sauce too early can make wings soggy. Toss them in the honey lemon pepper sauce right before serving.
• Not Adjusting Seasoning: Taste your sauce! If it lacks flavor, adjust with more lemon juice or pepper to enhance the taste.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover honey lemon pepper wings in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Honey Lemon Pepper Wings

• Place cooled wings in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Honey Lemon Pepper Wings

• Oven: Preheat to 375°F and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through. This method keeps them crispy.
• Microwave: Place wings on a microwave-safe plate and heat in 30-second intervals until hot. Be aware that they may lose some crispiness.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a small amount of oil. Sear the wings for a few minutes on each side until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Honey Lemon Pepper Wings so special?

Honey lemon pepper wings combine sweet, tangy, and spicy flavors in every bite, making them irresistible as an appetizer or main dish.

Can I use frozen chicken wings?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken wings, but be sure to thaw them completely before cooking for even results.

How do I make Honey Lemon Pepper Wings spicier?

To add more heat, mix in your favorite hot sauce or increase the amount of ground pepper when preparing the sauce.

Can I bake these wings instead of frying?

Absolutely! Baking is a healthier option and still yields crispy honey lemon pepper wings when done correctly.

How long do Honey Lemon Pepper Wings last in the fridge?

These delicious wings last up to 3 days when stored properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Final Thoughts

Honey lemon pepper wings are not only delicious but also versatile enough for various occasions. Whether you’re hosting a game night or enjoying a cozy dinner at home, these wings will surely delight everyone at your table. Feel free to customize them with different spices or sauces based on your preferences!