Save the Recipe: Honey Lemon Pepper Wings ❤️
There’s just something irresistible about sticky-sweet, citrus-kissed chicken wings. These Honey Lemon Pepper Wingscombine the juicy zing of fresh lemon with rich honey and a peppery punch for a dish that’s both bold and beautifully balanced.
Perfectly baked until golden and crispy, these wings are as good for game day as they are for a cozy night in. With just a handful of ingredients and easy prep, they’ll become your go-to for effortless flavor with maximum payoff.
Why I Love This Recipe
Sweet, savory, zesty, and a little spicy—what’s not to love? The lemon brightens every bite while honey caramelizes into sticky, golden goodness. Tossed with pepper and aromatic garlic and onion powders, these wings deliver flavor in every bite without being overpowering.
And unlike fried wings, these are baked to crispy perfection, making them just a little bit lighter without sacrificing crunch. Pair them with Beer Cheese Dip and you’ve got the ultimate flavor party.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds chicken wings
- ⅓ cup honey
- ¼ cup lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Swaps & Notes
- Wings: Use whole wings or split into drumettes and flats.
- Citrus: Fresh lemon juice is key—bottled just won’t do.
- Heat: Add a pinch of cayenne for extra kick.
- Oil: Avocado oil can be used in place of olive oil for a neutral flavor.
Instructions
1. Prep the Oven
Preheat to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Make the Marinade
In a bowl, whisk honey, lemon juice, olive oil, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and lemon zest until well blended.
3. Coat the Wings
Place the wings in a large bowl and pour the honey-lemon mixture over them. Toss thoroughly to coat.
4. Bake
Arrange wings in a single layer on the lined baking sheet. Bake for 40–45 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and slightly charred at the edges.
5. Finish & Garnish
Let the wings rest a few minutes after baking. Drizzle with any reserved honey-lemon mixture and sprinkle with chopped parsley before serving.
Tips for Success
- Dry the wings before coating for crispier skin.
- Don’t overcrowd the baking tray—use two trays if needed.
- Line the tray with parchment or foil to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
Serving Suggestions
These zesty wings shine on their own, but they’re also fantastic with a spread of flavor-packed sides:
- Add a batch of Easy Cheesy Chicken Sliders for a protein-packed pairing.
- Bring in Southern comfort with Cajun Chicken Sausage Gumbo.
- Serve with Sheet Pan Quesadillas for the ultimate crowd-pleasing platter.
- Kick off the party with Beer Cheese Dip as your side star.
Storage & Leftovers
- Fridge: Store leftover wings in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm in a 350°F oven for 10–15 minutes to revive the crisp.
- Freezer: Wings can be frozen before baking. Thaw and bake as directed.
More Recipes You’ll Love
For even more comfort food with flair:
- Chicken Enchiladas – cheesy and cozy.
- Sheet Pan Quesadillas – fast and filling.
- Cajun Chicken Gumbo – bold and comforting.
Final Thoughts
These Honey Lemon Pepper Wings are the kind of simple yet standout dish that will have everyone asking for seconds. Whether it’s a weeknight treat or your new party go-to, they bring big flavor with minimal effort.
Tried them? Tag your wing shots and let me know what you paired them with. Follow along for more flavor-packed recipes made with love!
