Honey Lemon Pepper Wings: Easy | Game day appetizer | Flavorful

These Honey Lemon Pepper Wings deliver the perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and peppery flavors in every bite. Crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and glazed with a sticky honey lemon pepper sauce that will have everyone reaching for more. Perfect for game day, parties, or whenever you’re craving wings with a twist!

Lemon Pepper Wings Ingredients

The Wings:

• 2 pounds chicken wings, split into flats and drumettes
• 1 tablespoon baking powder (not baking soda)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder

The Honey Lemon Pepper Sauce:

• 1/4 cup honey
• 3 tablespoons butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 2 tablespoons lemon pepper seasoning
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• 1 clove garlic, minced

Serving:

• Lemon wedges
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
• Extra lemon pepper seasoning (optional)

Instructions of Honey Lemon Pepper Wings

Preparing the Wings

1. Pat the chicken wings dry with paper towels. This is crucial for achieving crispy skin.
2. In a large bowl, combine the wings with baking powder, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Toss until all wings are evenly coated.
3. Place the wings on a wire rack set over a baking sheet, leaving space between each wing.
4. For best results, refrigerate uncovered for at least 1 hour or overnight to dry out the skin further.

Honey Lemon Pepper Wings Cooking Method

Option 1: Baking

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Place the wire rack with wings on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil (for easier cleanup).
3. Bake for 25 minutes, then flip the wings and continue baking for another 20-25 minutes until the skin is crispy and golden brown.

Cooking Method

Option 2: Air Fryer

1. Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (190°C).
2. Place wings in the air fryer basket in a single layer, working in batches if necessary.
3. Air fry for 10 minutes, then flip and cook for another 8-10 minutes until crispy and golden.

Making the Honey Lemon Pepper Wings Sauce

1. While the wings are cooking, prepare the sauce by combining melted butter, honey, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, lemon pepper seasoning, black pepper, red pepper flakes (if using), and minced garlic in a bowl.
2. Whisk until well combined and set aside.

Finishing the Wings

1. Once the wings are cooked and crispy, transfer them to a large bowl.
2. Pour the honey lemon pepper sauce over the hot wings.
3. Toss until all wings are evenly coated with the sauce.
4. For extra flavor, sprinkle with additional lemon pepper seasoning.

Serving

1. Transfer the glazed wings to a serving platter.
2. Garnish with fresh lemon wedges and chopped parsley if desired.
3. Serve immediately while hot and sticky!

Tips for Perfect Honey Lemon Pepper Wings

• For extra crispy wings: Make sure to pat them completely dry and don’t skip the baking powder – it’s the secret to crispy skin!
• Make ahead: You can season the wings and keep them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking.
• Sauce consistency: If you prefer a thicker sauce, simmer the mixture in a small saucepan for 2-3 minutes before coating the wings.
• Heat level: Adjust the amount of black pepper and red pepper flakes to control the spiciness.
• Serving suggestion: These wings pair perfectly with a cool ranch or blue cheese dip to balance the sweet and tangy flavors.

If you loved these Honey Lemon Pepper Wings, be sure to check out for another crowd-pleasing flavor!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen chicken wings for this recipe (Honey Lemon Pepper Wings)?

Yes, but make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before seasoning. Frozen wings won’t crisp up as well if they’re not properly thawed and dried.

Can I make these wings ahead of time for a party?

For best results, cook the wings just before serving. However, you can prepare the sauce in advance and reheat it when needed. If you must make the wings ahead, reheat them in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes to re-crisp before tossing with the sauce.

What can I substitute for lemon pepper seasoning?

You can make your own by combining lemon zest, black pepper, salt, garlic powder, and onion powder. About 1 tablespoon lemon zest, 1 tablespoon black pepper, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon each of garlic and onion powder makes a good substitute.

Are these wings spicy?

These wings have a mild kick from the black pepper, but they’re more tangy-sweet than spicy. Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the glaze if you prefer more heat.

What sides go well with these wings?

These honey lemon pepper wings pair beautifully with classic sides like celery and carrot sticks, coleslaw, french fries, or a simple green salad to balance the richness.

Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus 1 hour resting time)
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours
Servings: 4-6

Enjoy these irresistible Honey Lemon Pepper Wings at your next gathering – they’re guaranteed to disappear quickly!