Appetizers

Honey Lemon Pepper Wings

Name: Honey Lemon Pepper Wings
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 lbs chicken wings; 1/2 cup honey; 1/4 cup lemon juice; 1 tbsp lemon zest; 1 tsp black pepper; 1 tsp salt; 1 tsp garlic powder; 2 tbsp olive oil

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Honey Lemon Pepper Wings are a delightful combination of sweet, tangy, and peppery flavors that make for an irresistible treat. Whether you’re hosting a game day party, having a casual dinner with friends, or simply craving something delicious, these wings are bound to impress. They’re easy to prepare and come out crispy and juicy, making them the perfect finger food for any occasion.

Recipe Information

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Servings: 4
Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving: 320
Protein: 27 grams
Carbohydrates: 12 grams
Fat: 20 grams
Fiber: 0 grams
Sugar: 8 grams
Sodium: 600 mg

Why Make This Honey Lemon Pepper Wings

Honey Lemon Pepper Wings stand out for their perfect balance of flavors. The sweetness of honey complements the bright acidity of lemon, while the black pepper adds a nice kick. These wings are not only delicious but also incredibly simple to make, requiring just a handful of ingredients. Bake them in the oven for a healthier twist on traditional fried wings, allowing you to enjoy the crispy texture without the extra oil. Plus, they’re incredibly versatile and can be served as an appetizer or main dish!

How to Make Honey Lemon Pepper Wings

Ingredients:

2 lbs chicken wings
1/2 cup honey
1/4 cup lemon juice
1 tbsp lemon zest
1 tsp black pepper
1 tsp salt
1 tsp garlic powder
2 tbsp olive oil

Directions:

Step 1: Preparation

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your wings cook evenly and become perfectly crispy during baking.

Step 2: Mixing

In a large bowl, mix together the honey, lemon juice, lemon zest, black pepper, salt, garlic powder, and olive oil. This flavorful mixture will act as a marinade for the wings, so make sure it’s well combined.

Step 3: Coating

Add the chicken wings to the bowl with your honey lemon mixture. Toss the wings until they are evenly coated, ensuring each piece is covered in the tasty glaze.

Step 4: Arranging and Baking

Arrange the coated wings on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper in a single layer. Bake for 40-45 minutes, flipping the wings halfway through to achieve an even golden-brown and crispy exterior.

Step 5: Serving

Once cooked, take the wings out of the oven, serve them hot, and enjoy the delightful explosion of flavors!

How to Serve Honey Lemon Pepper Wings

Honey Lemon Pepper Wings are perfect on their own, but pairing them with ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping adds an extra layer of flavor. Serve them alongside crunchy vegetable sticks and a refreshing salad for a complete meal. They also shine at parties, making them a great option for appetizers or finger foods.

How to Store Honey Lemon Pepper Wings

To store leftover wings, let them cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container. They can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. When ready to enjoy them again, reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) until heated through for maximum crispiness.

Expert Tips for Perfect Honey Lemon Pepper Wings

For extra crisp: You can broil the wings for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking time. Just keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.
Super juicy wings: Marinate the wings in the honey lemon mixture for at least an hour, or overnight in the refrigerator if time permits.
Ingredient substitutions: If you’re out of honey, maple syrup is a delicious alternative. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the marinade.
Use fresh ingredients: Fresh lemon juice and zest yield the best flavor. Avoid bottled lemon juice for a brighter taste.
Even baking: Ensure that the wings are not crowded on the baking sheet, which helps them bake evenly and become crispy.

Delicious Variations

Buffalo Style: Toss the cooked wings in buffalo sauce after baking for a spicy twist.
Garlic Parmesan: After baking, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and minced garlic for a savory experience.
Honey Mustard: Blend in some mustard for a tangy honey mustard flavor instead of using just honey and lemon.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen wings?
Yes, but be sure to thaw them completely before marinating and baking. This will ensure they cook evenly.
How can I make these wings spicier?
Add hot sauce to the marinade or toss wings in your favorite spicy sauce after baking for additional heat.
What can I serve with these wings?
Consider serving celery sticks, carrot sticks, and dipping sauces like ranch or blue cheese for a classic pairing.
Can I grill these wings instead of baking?
Yes! Preheat your grill and cook the wings over medium heat, turning often until they’re cooked through and crispy.
What should I do if they’re not crispy enough?
If you find they’re not as crispy as you’d like, you can pop them back in the oven under the broiler for a few minutes. Just be sure to watch them closely!

Conclusion

Honey Lemon Pepper Wings are a versatile and delectable choice for any meal or gathering. They combine sweet and tangy flavors with a touch of heat, creating a dish that everyone will love. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, these wings are perfect for both everyday dinners and special occasions. So, gather your ingredients and enjoy making this mouthwatering recipe — your friends and family will be glad you did!