I like quick recipes that involve a lot of protein because they’re not overwhelming.
These hot honey lemon pepper wings are that perfect mix of sweet, spicy, tangy, and crispy, the kind that makes you lick your fingers and go back for one more (and then another).
I made these for my friends last Sunday and they loved it!
The honey caramelizes beautifully in the oven, the lemon brightens everything up, and the cracked pepper gives just the right amount of kick.
They’re the kind of wings that make your kitchen smell amazing and make everyone think you spent hours cooking.
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Tips for Extra Flavor
- For perfectly crispy wings, bake them on this non-stick wire rack placed over your sheet pan — it lets the air circulate underneath.
- Toss your wings evenly using this stainless steel mixing bowl set they make coating super easy and mess-free.
- Use this microplane zester for fine lemon zest that blends perfectly into your sauce.
- For a smoky depth of flavor, drizzle this hot honey instead of plain honey, it adds a gourmet touch with zero effort.
- Keep your leftovers crisp by reheating them in this air fryer for just 5 minutes — they come out just as good as fresh.
Hot Honey Lemon Pepper Wings
Course: Lunch, DinnerDifficulty: Easy4
servings10
minutes40
minutesIngredients
2 lbs chicken wings (split at joints, tips removed)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 tablespoon lemon pepper seasoning
- For the sauce:
¼ cup honey
2 tablespoons hot sauce (adjust to taste)
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Zest of 1 lemon
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Pat the wings dry using paper towels — this helps them crisp up beautifully in the oven. Toss them in olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and lemon pepper seasoning until evenly coated. Arrange them on the baking sheet in a single layer with space between each piece.
- Bake the wings for 40 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy. While they’re baking, make the sauce by melting butter, honey, hot sauce, lemon juice, and lemon zest in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir until it’s smooth and slightly thickened.
- Once the wings are done, transfer them to a large bowl and pour the hot honey lemon sauce over them.
- Toss to coat until glossy and sticky. Garnish with extra cracked pepper, lemon zest, or chopped parsley. Serve them warm, they’re even better when slightly sticky and caramelized at the edges.
- You can serve this with a salad for brunches or with beer!
Variations & Substitutions
Use maple syrup instead of honey for a deeper, caramelized sweetness.
Add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes for extra heat.
Try lime juice and zest instead of lemon for a tropical twist.
Make them dairy-free by omitting the butter or using olive oil.
For an air fryer version, cook at 400°F for 18–20 minutes, flipping halfway.
This is one of those recipes you can make when you’re too tired to cook but want something a little gourmet.
Keep it on rotation, it never disappoints.
