Honey Lemon Pepper Wings

Honey lemon pepper wings are pure comfort food that need only a handful of ingredients but always deliver the perfect mix of crispy skin and sticky sweet citrus sauce. At my house these wings have become a go to for game nights and any time we want something fun and flavorful without much fuss.

The first time I made these for my family they disappeared before I even sat down at the table Now every time I see a sale on wings I know what is about to happen for dinner

Ingredients

• Chicken wings: about two pounds Look for wings with even size for even cooking
• Potato starch: Creates crispness and helps the coating stick Rice flour works in a pinch but potato starch gives superior crunch
• Baking powder: A secret weapon for crispy skin Choose aluminum free for best taste
• Garlic powder: Adds a mellow savory layer Buy in small amounts for freshness
• Onion powder: Deepens savory flavor and rounds out the wing coating
• Paprika: Brings mild warmth and color to the crust Use smoked paprika if you want a little extra depth
• Oil spray: Keeps the wings from sticking and promotes browning Grapeseed or avocado oil sprays are best
• Honey: Forms the sticky sweet base for the sauce Use a runny honey that pours easily
• Lemon zest: Packs bright citrus oils Use fresh zest for fullest flavor
• Lemon juice: Gives bold sourness You will need about one large lemon per batch
• Minced garlic: For punchy aroma and flavor Use fresh if possible
• Butter: Rounds everything out for luscious sauce Look for European style for extra richness if you can
• Ground pepper: Brings heat and earthiness Freshly cracked really makes a difference
• Salt: Balances the sweet and sour Aim for kosher or sea salt for even seasoning

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Chicken:

Pat the chicken wings completely dry with a paper towel Even a little extra moisture will make them steam instead of crisp

Coat with Seasonings:

Mix the potato starch baking powder garlic powder onion powder and paprika together in a large bowl Add the wings and toss until each piece is thoroughly dusted for an even crunchy crust

Preheat and Arrange:

Preheat your oven to four hundred fifty degrees Place a piece of parchment on your sheet pan and mist it with oil Spread the wings out in a single layer so no edges touch Spray the tops again with oil for the perfect browning

Bake the Wings:

Lower the oven heat to four hundred twenty five degrees Slide the pan in and roast for thirty five to forty minutes Flip halfway through and lightly spritz again with oil so both sides crisp up nicely

Make the Honey Lemon Pepper Sauce:

While the wings roast combine the honey lemon juice lemon zest minced garlic butter salt and pepper in a small saucepan Heat over medium gently simmering for three to five minutes Stir until the butter melts and the flavors merge Turn off the heat and reserve some sauce for dipping

Coat and Serve:

Transfer the hot crispy wings to a large bowl Drizzle the honey lemon pepper sauce over and toss with a spatula or spoon until every wing is glossy and sticky Serve up while still warm

Pin

My favorite ingredient here is definitely the fresh lemon zest It wakes up the entire dish and reminds me of my grandmother who always zested lemons into everything from roast chicken to pancakes The aroma as you toss the sauce on the hot wings is pure happiness

Storage Tips

These wings store well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days Reheat them in the oven at three hundred seventy five degrees for about eight minutes to bring back the crispy exterior Microwaving works but loses the crunch

Ingredient Substitutions

If you do not have potato starch use cornstarch or rice flour for a similar texture You can swap honey for agave if needed Butter can be replaced with a bit of olive oil for dairy free wings Fresh black pepper is a game changer but pre ground also works

Serving Suggestions

These wings are classic game day food but they also shine as a main dish with a crisp salad or steamed rice I like to pile them high with extra lemon wedges for squeezing and sometimes sprinkle a bit of chopped parsley over the top

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Cultural and Historical Context

Lemon pepper wings are a staple at many American sports bars and have roots in Southern cuisine Their sweet heat and tangy zip made them a cult favorite especially in Atlanta where wing culture is strong The honey addition is a modern twist that has caught on everywhere for good reason

Recipe FAQs

→ How do you make the wings extra crispy?

Dry the wings thoroughly before coating and use potato starch with baking powder for a crisp finish. Baking at a high temperature also helps.

→ Can I use other cuts of chicken?

Yes, drumettes and boneless pieces work well, but adjust cooking times as needed for even browning.

→ Is it possible to air-fry instead of bake?

Absolutely. Arrange wings in a single layer in the air fryer basket and cook at 400°F, flipping halfway, until crispy.

→ How spicy are these wings?

The heat comes from the ground pepper. Adjust the amount to your taste, adding more for extra zing or less for milder flavor.

→ Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, the honey lemon pepper sauce can be made in advance and refrigerated. Reheat gently on the stove before tossing with wings.

→ What sides go well with these wings?

These wings pair nicely with fresh salads, crisp vegetables, classic coleslaw, or seasoned fries for a complete meal.