These Sweet & Tangy Honey Lemon Pepper Wings are a perfect combination of zesty, sweet, and savory flavors. Juicy chicken wings are baked to perfection and coated in a delectable honey-lemon glaze with a hint of peppery spice. Perfect as an appetizer or a main dish, they’re sure to be a hit at any gathering!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Balanced Flavor: The sweetness of honey and the zestiness of lemon pair beautifully with the savory chicken and peppery seasoning.
Healthier Option: These wings are baked, not fried, offering a lighter alternative without sacrificing flavor.
Gluten-Free and Paleo-Friendly: Naturally gluten-free, these wings are also suitable for a paleo diet with no added processed ingredients.
Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe quick and hassle-free.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 lbs chicken wings
1/3 cup honey
1/4 cup lemon juice
Zest of 1 lemon
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon salt
Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Directions

Prepare the Chicken Wings:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil and place a wire rack on top. Pat the chicken wings dry with paper towels.
Season the Wings:
In a large bowl, toss the chicken wings with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
Bake the Wings:
Arrange the seasoned wings on the wire rack in a single layer. Bake for 35-40 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
Make the Honey Lemon Glaze:
While the wings bake, prepare the glaze. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine honey, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Stir until the mixture is smooth and slightly thickened, about 3-5 minutes. Remove from heat.
Coat the Wings:
Once the wings are cooked, transfer them to a large bowl. Pour the honey lemon glaze over the wings and toss until evenly coated.
Serve:
Garnish the wings with fresh parsley and additional lemon zest if desired. Serve immediately as an appetizer or main dish.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes

Variations

Spicy Twist: Add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the glaze for a sweet and spicy kick.
Air Fryer Option: Cook the wings in an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
Grilled Wings: Grill the wings over medium heat, turning frequently, until cooked through and lightly charred. Toss in the glaze before serving.
Lemon Pepper Rub: Add extra lemon zest and black pepper to the seasoning mix for a stronger lemon pepper flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover wings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or in an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes to maintain crispiness.

FAQs

1. Can I use drumsticks or chicken thighs instead of wings?

Yes, you can substitute wings with drumsticks or thighs. Adjust the baking time accordingly, as larger cuts may take longer to cook.

2. How do I ensure the wings get crispy in the oven?

Patting the wings dry before seasoning and baking them on a wire rack helps them cook evenly and get crispy.

3. Can I use bottled lemon juice?

Fresh lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor, but bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch.

4. Is there a substitute for honey?

Maple syrup or agave syrup can be used as a substitute for honey.

5. Can I marinate the wings beforehand?

Yes, you can marinate the wings in the seasoning mix (without the glaze) for up to 24 hours in the refrigerator for extra flavor.

6. Can I make these wings ahead of time?

You can bake the wings ahead and reheat them in the oven. Toss them in the glaze just before serving to keep them fresh.

7. What sides pair well with these wings?

Serve with a side of coleslaw, potato wedges, or a crisp garden salad for a complete meal.

8. Can I make these wings without a wire rack?

Yes, you can bake them directly on a lined baking sheet, but the wire rack helps to achieve maximum crispiness.

9. Can I freeze these wings?

Cooked wings can be frozen in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven or air fryer until heated through.

10. How do I prevent the glaze from burning?

Keep the glaze on low to medium heat and stir frequently to avoid burning. Remove from heat as soon as it thickens slightly.

Conclusion

Sweet & Tangy Honey Lemon Pepper Wings are a perfect combination of bold flavors and tender, juicy chicken. Whether served as an appetizer, game-day snack, or main dish, these wings are sure to impress. Easy to prepare and bursting with flavor, this recipe is a must-try for wing lovers everywhere. Enjoy them fresh out of the oven with your favorite sides!