When it comes to chicken wings, it’s hard to beat the balance of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors. Easy Honey Lemon Pepper Chicken Wings are the perfect combination of crispy goodness, citrusy brightness, and a touch of honey sweetness that keeps you coming back for more.
The first time I made these wings, they disappeared faster than I could plate them. My family loved the crispy texture paired with the zesty glaze—it felt like a game-day favorite with a gourmet twist.
What I love most about this recipe is how easy it is to prepare while delivering flavors that taste like you spent hours in the kitchen. Let’s whip up a batch of these Easy Honey Lemon Pepper Chicken Wings and make every bite count!
Honey Lemon Pepper Chicken Wings feature crispy wings coated in a sweet and tangy glaze with a peppery kick. These wings are perfect for game days, parties, or a delicious dinner at home.
An Exciting Story
The first time I served Easy Honey Lemon Pepper Chicken Wings was during a family movie night, and they were a hit from the first bite. My husband loved the subtle sweetness of the honey, while the kids couldn’t get enough of the tangy lemon flavor. They’re now a staple at every family gathering!
Why These Easy Honey Lemon Pepper Chicken Wings?
- Crispy and Flavorful: Perfectly baked or fried wings with a zesty glaze.
- Sweet and Tangy: A balanced flavor profile that pleases every palate.
- Quick and Easy: Simple steps with big results.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for parties, game days, or weeknight meals.
- Customizable: Adjust the sweetness, tang, or spice to your liking.
What You Need for Easy Honey Lemon Pepper Chicken Wings
- For the Wings:
- 2 lbs chicken wings, split and tips removed
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- For the Glaze:
- ¼ cup honey
- 3 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 1 tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
- Optional Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon wedges
How to Make Easy Honey Lemon Pepper Chicken Wings
- Prepare the Wings:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top.
- Pat the chicken wings dry with paper towels and place them in a large bowl. Sprinkle with baking powder, salt, and pepper, tossing to coat evenly.
- Bake the Wings:
- Arrange the wings in a single layer on the wire rack. Bake for 40-45 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the wings are golden brown and crispy.
- Make the Glaze:
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the honey, lemon juice, lemon zest, black pepper, garlic powder, and butter. Stir until the butter is melted and the glaze is smooth. Remove from heat.
- Coat the Wings:
- Transfer the baked wings to a large mixing bowl. Pour the glaze over the wings and toss to coat evenly.
- Serve and Garnish:
- Arrange the wings on a platter and garnish with fresh parsley and lemon wedges if desired. Serve immediately.
Tips for Easy Honey Lemon Pepper Chicken Wings
- Dry the Wings Well: Patting the wings dry ensures they get crispy in the oven.
- Don’t Skip the Baking Powder: It helps create that golden, crispy texture.
Substitutions and Variations
- Air Fryer Method: Cook the wings in an air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
- Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the glaze for some heat.
- Sugar-Free Option: Replace honey with a sugar-free sweetener like stevia or monk fruit.
Make a Healthier Version
- Bake or air-fry the wings instead of frying.
- Use less honey or a natural sweetener like agave nectar.
- Opt for skinless chicken drumettes for a leaner option.
Closing for Easy Honey Lemon Pepper Chicken Wings:
And there you have it—Easy Honey Lemon Pepper Chicken Wings, a crispy, tangy, and sweet dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party or looking for a quick dinner idea, these wings are sure to impress. Let us know how yours turn out, and don’t forget to explore more of our easy and flavorful recipes!
Frequently Asked Questions for Easy Honey Lemon Pepper Chicken Wings
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, bake the wings in advance and reheat them before tossing in the glaze.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze these?
Yes, freeze the baked wings without glaze, then thaw and glaze when ready to serve.
What’s the best way to reheat wings?
Reheat in a 375°F (190°C) oven or air fryer for 10-15 minutes to crisp them up.
Can I use drumsticks instead of wings?
Absolutely! Adjust the cooking time to ensure they’re fully cooked.
What pairs well with these wings?
Serve with celery sticks, ranch or blue cheese dressing, or a side of coleslaw.
Can I use bottled lemon juice?
Fresh lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor, but bottled juice works in a pinch.
What can I use instead of honey?
Maple syrup or agave nectar are great substitutes for honey.
How do I make them extra crispy?
Use a wire rack for baking, and ensure the wings are well-dried before seasoning.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, but bake the wings in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.
What’s the secret to a glossy glaze?
Stir the glaze until smooth and coat the wings while they’re still warm.
How do I balance the sweetness?
Add a pinch of salt or extra lemon juice if the glaze is too sweet for your taste.
Easy Honey Lemon Pepper Chicken Wings
Course: All Recipes, Dinner Recipe, Lunch Recipe, Weight watchers4
servings30
minutes40
minutes300
kcalIngredients
- For the Wings:
2 lbs chicken wings, split and tips removed
1 tbsp baking powder
1 tsp salt
1 tsp black pepper
- For the Glaze:
¼ cup honey
3 tbsp fresh lemon juice
1 tsp lemon zest
1 tsp black pepper
½ tsp garlic powder
1 tbsp unsalted butter
- Optional Garnish:
Fresh parsley, chopped
Lemon wedges
Directions
- Prepare the Wings:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top.
- Pat the chicken wings dry with paper towels and place them in a large bowl. Sprinkle with baking powder, salt, and pepper, tossing to coat evenly.
- Bake the Wings:
- Arrange the wings in a single layer on the wire rack. Bake for 40-45 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the wings are golden brown and crispy.
- Make the Glaze:
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the honey, lemon juice, lemon zest, black pepper, garlic powder, and butter. Stir until the butter is melted and the glaze is smooth. Remove from heat.
- Coat the Wings:
- Transfer the baked wings to a large mixing bowl. Pour the glaze over the wings and toss to coat evenly.
- Serve and Garnish:
- Arrange the wings on a platter and garnish with fresh parsley and lemon wedges if desired. Serve immediately.