Honey Lemon Pepper Wings

All you need are a few pantry staples to make these delicious Honey Lemon Pepper Wings. These wings are crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and coated in a sticky sweet and tangy sauce. Perfect for game-day appetizers or as a finger-licking dinner, they’re sure to impress at any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you can whip up these wings in no time.
  • Flavor Explosion: The combination of honey, lemon, and pepper creates a unique flavor that tantalizes your taste buds.
  • Versatile Dish: These wings work wonderfully as an appetizer or main course and pair well with various sides.
  • Crispy Texture: Thanks to the baking method, these wings achieve that perfect crunch without deep-frying.
  • Healthier Option: Baking instead of frying reduces excess fat while still delivering rich flavor.

Tools and Preparation

To create your Honey Lemon Pepper Wings, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment ensures that your cooking process goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Mixing bowl
  • Small saucepan
  • Whisk or spoon

Importance of Each Tool

  • Baking sheet: Provides a stable surface for cooking your wings evenly.
  • Parchment paper: Prevents sticking, making cleanup easier while ensuring crispiness.
  • Mixing bowl: Essential for combining ingredients thoroughly before cooking.
  • Small saucepan: Perfect for preparing the honey lemon sauce without taking up too much space.

Ingredients

All you need are a few pantry staples to make these delicious honey lemon pepper wings.

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 Coating

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

Step 3: Arrange on Baking Sheet

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

Step 4: Bake the Wings

Decrease the oven temperature to 425°F and bake for 35 to 40 minutes (depending on size), flipping them halfway through. Spray a bit 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 until everything is well mixed and simmer for about 3 to 5 minutes.

Step 6: Coat and Serve

Once baked, transfer the wings to a bowl and toss them in the honey lemon pepper sauce until coated evenly. Enjoy your delightful Honey Lemon Pepper Wings!

How to Serve Honey Lemon Pepper Wings

Honey lemon pepper wings are versatile and can be served in various delightful ways. Whether you’re hosting a game day party or enjoying a casual dinner, these wings can elevate your meal experience.

With Dipping Sauces

  • Ranch Dressing: A creamy ranch dip pairs well with the tangy flavor of the wings.
  • Blue Cheese Dressing: For those who enjoy a sharp contrast, blue cheese dressing is a classic choice.
  • Hot Sauce: Add some heat with your favorite hot sauce for an extra kick.

On a Bed of Greens

  • Mixed Greens Salad: Serve the wings over a fresh salad for a light and refreshing meal option.
  • Coleslaw: The crunchiness of coleslaw complements the juicy wings perfectly.

As Part of a Platter

  • Wing Platter: Present your honey lemon pepper wings alongside other flavors like buffalo or teriyaki for variety.
  • Charcuterie Board: Include the wings on a charcuterie board with cheeses, meats, and fruits for an impressive spread.

Accompanied by Vegetables

  • Grilled Veggies: Serve grilled vegetables alongside the wings for a colorful and nutritious addition.
  • Carrot and Celery Sticks: These classic sides offer crunch and freshness to balance out the richness of the wings.
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How to Perfect Honey Lemon Pepper Wings

For perfect honey lemon pepper wings every time, follow these essential tips.

  • Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh lemon juice and zest enhance the flavor of your sauce significantly.
  • Pat Dry Your Wings: Ensuring your chicken wings are dry before seasoning helps achieve maximum crispiness.
  • Adjust Baking Time: Depending on wing size, adjust the baking time to ensure they are cooked through but not overdone.
  • Toss in Sauce Immediately: Coat your wings in sauce right after baking to keep them crispy while ensuring they absorb flavor.
  • Experiment with Seasoning: Feel free to adjust the pepper level based on your heat preference for personalized flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Honey Lemon Pepper Wings

Pairing side dishes with honey lemon pepper wings can create a complete meal. Here are some great ideas to consider:

  1. Garlic Bread: This buttery treat is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce from the wings.
  2. Macaroni and Cheese: Creamy mac adds comfort and richness that complements spicy flavors well.
  3. French Fries: Classic crispy fries are always a crowd-pleaser that pairs perfectly with chicken wings.
  4. Potato Salad: A chilled potato salad balances out the warm, sticky sweetness of the wings nicely.
  5. Baked Beans: Their smoky flavor contrasts beautifully with the sweet honey lemon sauce.
  6. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn adds sweetness and crunch to your meal.
  7. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad offers a cool contrast to hot, spicy wings.
  8. Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf provides a mild base that allows the bold flavors of the wings to shine through.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making honey lemon pepper wings can be a breeze, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for. Avoid these mistakes to ensure your wings are perfect every time.

  • Skipping the Drying Step: Not drying the chicken wings properly can lead to soggy skin. Always pat the wings dry with a paper towel before seasoning.
  • Overcrowding the Baking Sheet: If you place too many wings on one sheet, they won’t cook evenly. Arrange them in a single layer for the best crispiness.
  • Not Using Enough Seasoning: Skimping on spices can result in bland wings. Make sure to generously coat the wings with the seasoning mix for full flavor.
  • Ignoring Oven Temperature Changes: Failing to decrease the oven temperature after initially heating it can cause uneven cooking. Follow the recipe instructions carefully for perfect results.
  • Forgetting to Reserve Sauce: Neglecting to set aside some sauce for dipping is a missed opportunity. Reserve a portion before coating the wings for extra flavor.
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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.
  • Frozen honey lemon pepper wings can last up to 3 months.

Reheating Honey Lemon Pepper Wings

  • Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
  • Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid toughening.
  • Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making honey lemon pepper wings, along with their answers.

What are Honey Lemon Pepper Wings?

Honey lemon pepper wings are chicken wings coated with a sweet and tangy sauce made from honey, lemon juice, and pepper. They are baked until crispy and flavorful.

How do I make Honey Lemon Pepper Wings crispy?

To achieve crispy honey lemon pepper wings, ensure that you dry the chicken thoroughly and use baking powder in your seasoning mix. Cooking at high temperatures also contributes to a crispy texture.

Can I use frozen wings?

Yes! You can use frozen chicken wings for this recipe. Just make sure they are fully thawed and patted dry before seasoning.

How long do Honey Lemon Pepper Wings last?

Honey lemon pepper wings can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

Final Thoughts

Honey lemon pepper wings are not only delicious but also versatile, making them perfect for game days or cozy dinners at home. Feel free to customize the sauce by adding more spices or adjusting sweetness levels. Give this recipe a try; your taste buds will thank you!

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Honey Lemon Pepper Wings

Honey Lemon Pepper Wings

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  • Author: Sarah
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Description

Prepare to impress your guests with these delectable Honey Lemon Pepper Wings! Crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, these wings are coated in a sweet and tangy sauce that will have everyone reaching for seconds. Perfect for game days or a flavorful dinner, this easy recipe uses simple pantry staples to create a dish that’s both mouthwatering and satisfying. Whether served as an appetizer or the star of your meal, these wings are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser!


Ingredients

Scale
  • 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
  • 1 tablespoon minced garlic
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 12 teaspoons ground pepper
  • 1 pinch salt

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 450°F. Pat chicken wings dry with a paper towel.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine potato starch, baking powder, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Toss the chicken wings in this mixture until evenly coated.
  3. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly spray with oil. Arrange the wings in a single layer on the sheet and spray the tops with oil.
  4. Reduce oven temperature to 425°F and bake wings for 35 to 40 minutes, flipping halfway through.
  5. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine honey, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, butter, salt, and pepper. Simmer for about 3 to 5 minutes until well mixed.
  6. Once baked, toss the wings in the honey lemon sauce until fully coated.


Nutrition

  • Serving Size: Approximately 4 wings (150g)
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 12g
  • Sodium: 480mg
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 17g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 24g
  • Cholesterol: 90mg

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