Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Honey Lemon Pepper Wings are packed with flavor from the zesty lemon, aromatic pepper, and sweet honey glaze. The combination of these ingredients creates a flavor explosion that pairs perfectly with crispy, juicy wings. The recipe is simple, requiring just a few ingredients, yet delivers an irresistible dish that is both savory and sweet. Whether you bake or fry them, these wings are versatile and can be customized to your liking. They’re a crowd-pleasing favorite and perfect for any occasion, from casual weeknight dinners to game day snacks.

Ingredients

2 pounds chicken wings
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 cup honey
2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
1 teaspoon lemon zest
1 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) or heat oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat if frying.
Pat the chicken wings dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture, which will help them become crispier during cooking.
Toss the wings in olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
For baking: Arrange the wings on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a wire rack. Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden and crispy.
For frying: Heat oil in a pan and fry the wings in batches for about 8-10 minutes, turning them to cook evenly, until they are golden and crispy.
While the wings are cooking, prepare the glaze by combining honey, lemon juice, lemon zest, black pepper, and garlic powder in a small saucepan. Heat over low-medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it becomes smooth and slightly thickened, about 5-7 minutes.
Once the wings are done, toss them in the honey lemon pepper glaze until evenly coated.
Serve immediately and enjoy!

Servings and timing

This recipe makes approximately 4 servings.

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes (if baking) or 15 minutes (if frying)
Total time: 40-45 minutes

Variations

Spicy Honey Lemon Pepper Wings: Add some heat by incorporating chili flakes, cayenne pepper, or hot sauce into the glaze.
Air Fried Wings: If you prefer a healthier option, try air frying the wings at 380°F (193°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway.
Lemon Pepper Chicken Tenders: Use chicken tenders instead of wings for a quicker cooking time and easier eating experience.
Herb Infused: Add a tablespoon of fresh thyme or rosemary to the glaze for an earthy, aromatic twist.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover Honey Lemon Pepper Wings in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the wings in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or until they are heated through and crispy again. You can also reheat them in an air fryer for the best crispiness.

FAQs

How do I get crispy wings without frying them?

Baking wings on a wire rack in the oven is a great way to get them crispy. This allows the heat to circulate around the wings, creating a crispy texture without the need for frying.

Can I use frozen wings for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen wings, but be sure to thaw them first. Cooking times may vary slightly, so check the wings for doneness before removing them from the oven or fryer.

How do I know when the wings are fully cooked?

Wings are fully cooked when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). You can check this using a meat thermometer.

Can I make these wings ahead of time?

You can prep the wings by seasoning and even cooking them in advance. Just store them in an airtight container and reheat before tossing them in the glaze.

Can I use store-bought lemon pepper seasoning instead of fresh lemon zest?

Yes, you can substitute lemon zest with store-bought lemon pepper seasoning. However, fresh lemon zest will provide a more vibrant, fresh flavor.

Is there a substitute for honey in this recipe?

If you prefer not to use honey, you can substitute with maple syrup or agave nectar for a slightly different, but still delicious, sweetness.

Can I make the glaze without lemon?

If you’re not a fan of lemon, you can make the glaze with orange juice and zest for a citrusy alternative.

How spicy are these wings?

These wings are mildly spicy due to the black pepper. If you want more heat, add cayenne pepper, chili flakes, or hot sauce to the glaze to your desired spice level.

Can I fry the wings before coating them in the glaze?

Yes, you can fry the wings first, but be sure to drain excess oil before tossing them in the glaze for the best results.

How do I keep the wings crispy after glazing them?

The key to keeping them crispy is to serve them immediately after glazing. If you’re making them in advance, try to glaze only right before serving to preserve the crunch.

Conclusion

Honey Lemon Pepper Wings are a perfect blend of flavors, offering something for everyone—from the sweetness of honey to the tangy kick of lemon and the sharpness of pepper. Whether you bake, fry, or air fry them, this recipe is simple yet flavorful, making it a go-to for any occasion. Easy to make and even easier to devour, these wings will undoubtedly become a family favorite.