Why This Recipe Works

This recipe works because it combines several flavors and textures that complement each other beautifully. The crispy texture of the baked wings gives a satisfying crunch, while the hot honey lemon pepper sauce adds a sweet, tangy, and spicy kick that’s irresistible. The use of smoked paprika and lemon pepper seasoning enhances the savory depth of the wings, while the honey gives them a perfect sweetness that balances the heat. It’s an easy-to-make dish that doesn’t sacrifice flavor, making it a great option for both casual meals and more festive gatherings.

Key Ingredients and Their Roles

• Chicken Wings: The chicken wings are the main ingredient in this recipe. The combination of flour, cornstarch, and baking powder creates a crispy coating that makes the wings extra crunchy. The lemon pepper seasoning and paprika add an extra layer of flavor to the crispy skin.

• Hot Honey Lemon Pepper Sauce: The honey provides sweetness, while the lemon juice adds a refreshing tang. The cornstarch helps thicken the sauce, and the lemon pepper seasoning adds depth, while the crushed red pepper flakes bring in a pleasant heat that complements the sweetness and citrus.

• Lemon Pepper Seasoning: This seasoning gives the wings their signature citrusy and peppery flavor, which enhances the overall taste of the dish.

• Smoked Paprika: Adds a slightly smoky flavor to the wings, balancing the heat from the cayenne and the acidity of the lemon.

• Cornstarch and Baking Powder: These ingredients help to create the crispy coating on the wings, ensuring that they bake to perfection in the oven.

How to Make Hot Honey Lemon Pepper Wings

Making these Hot Honey Lemon Pepper Wings is straightforward and results in a dish full of flavor and crunch. Here’s how to prepare them:

1. Preheat the Oven

• Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

2. Prepare the Wings

• In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, baking powder, lemon pepper seasoning, smoked paprika, and salt.

• Add the chicken wings to the bowl and toss them thoroughly until evenly coated with the dry mixture.

3. Bake the Wings

• Transfer the coated wings onto the prepared baking sheets. Arrange them so there is space between each wing, allowing them to cook evenly and become extra crispy.

• Bake in the oven for 50–60 minutes, flipping the wings halfway through the cooking time. Bake until they are golden brown and crispy, and the internal temperature of the wings reaches 165°F (74°C).

4. Make the Hot Honey Lemon Pepper Sauce

• While the wings bake, combine the honey and lemon juice in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir to combine and bring it to a boil.

• In a small bowl, whisk together cornstarch and water to make a slurry. Add this mixture to the saucepan, stirring to combine.

• Stir in the lemon pepper seasoning and crushed red pepper flakes, and continue to simmer for about 5 minutes or until the sauce thickens slightly.

5. Coat the Wings

• Once the wings are done, transfer them to a large bowl.

• Pour the hot honey lemon pepper sauce over the wings and toss them gently to coat each wing evenly with the sauce.

6. Serve

• Serve the wings immediately while they are still crispy and warm. Garnish with extra lemon pepper seasoning if desired and enjoy!

Nutritional Information

Each serving (approximately 4-6 wings) of Hot Honey Lemon Pepper Wings provides:

• Calories: 191 kcal. These wings are a satisfying, flavorful treat without being too heavy.

• Carbohydrates: 15 grams. The carbs come primarily from the flour and honey in the sauce, which help create a sweet and crispy texture.

• Protein: 12 grams. The chicken wings themselves provide a solid source of protein.

• Fat: 10 grams. The oil used for frying and the natural fat in the chicken contribute to the fat content.

• Saturated Fat: 3 grams. The fat from the chicken and oil creates a rich, satisfying flavor.

• Cholesterol: 47 mg. The wings contribute a moderate amount of cholesterol.

• Sodium: 488 mg. The soy sauce and lemon pepper seasoning contribute to the sodium content, but it’s balanced by the other ingredients.

• Fiber: 0.4 grams. There’s a small amount of fiber from the chicken and spices.

• Sugar: 12 grams. The honey in the sauce is the primary source of sugar, giving the wings a sweet, sticky finish.

Serving Suggestions

• With a Side Salad: Pair the wings with a light arugula salad or a simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette to balance the rich, spicy flavors.

• With Rice: Serve the wings alongside a bowl of steamed jasmine rice or fried rice to soak up the sweet and spicy sauce.

• Dipping Sauce: Serve with a side of ranch dressing or blue cheese dressing for dipping, as a cool contrast to the heat of the wings.

Conclusion

Hot Honey Lemon Pepper Wings are the perfect combination of crispy, spicy, and sweet, making them a hit for any occasion. Whether you’re serving them at a party, enjoying them as a weeknight dinner, or using them as an appetizer, these wings are sure to please everyone. With their crispy texture, flavorful glaze, and perfect balance of heat and sweetness, these wings will quickly become a go-to recipe in your household. Serve them with your favorite sides and enjoy a satisfying, tasty meal!