Lemon Pepper Wings with Honey

Lemon Pepper Wings with Honey are a bright and tasty treat that's perfect for any gathering or a relaxed night at home. These wings have a zesty lemony kick mixed…

By Alina • September 9, 2025 • Reading time: 6 min

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Lemon Pepper Wings with Honey are a bright and tasty treat that’s perfect for any gathering or a relaxed night at home. These wings have a zesty lemony kick mixed with the pepper’s mild heat, all balanced by a sweet drizzle of honey that brings everything together just right.

I love making these wings when I want something flavorful but not too spicy. The honey adds a subtle sweetness that melts in your mouth, while the lemon pepper seasoning keeps things fresh and lively. It’s one of those recipes that’s simple to throw together but feels special every time.

My favorite way to enjoy these wings is with a side of crunchy celery and a cool dip to offset the flavors. They’re a hit whether it’s game day or just a casual weeknight, and I always find myself reaching for seconds. Give them a try—you might just find your new favorite wing recipe!

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Chicken Wings: Fresh wings work best for crispiness, but frozen ones are fine if thawed well. Pat them dry for extra crunch.

Lemon Pepper Seasoning: This is the star! If you don’t have it, mix lemon zest with black pepper and a pinch of salt for a quick DIY version.

Honey: Balances the tart lemon and pepper heat perfectly. You can swap in maple syrup or agave if you want a different type of sweetness.

Butter: Adds richness and helps the glaze stick. Use vegan butter or a light oil if you want to avoid dairy.

Sesame Seeds: They add a nice crunch and nutty flavor. Toast them lightly for more aroma or skip if you’re short on time.

How Can I Make Crispy Wings Without Frying?

Crispy wings are best when the skin is dry before cooking and the cooking surface is hot. Here’s how to get great results in the oven or air fryer:

• Pat wings completely dry using paper towels. Moisture causes sogginess.
• Use a wire rack over a baking sheet in the oven to air circulate around wings.
• Cook at a high temperature (400-425°F) for 35-40 minutes in the oven, flipping halfway.
• In the air fryer, shake or flip wings halfway for even crisping.
• Don’t crowd the wings; give them space to cook evenly.
• After cooking, toss wings in the glaze quickly so they stay crispy but get coated in flavor.

Equipment You’ll Need

• Baking sheet with wire rack – lets air circulate around the wings for even crispiness in the oven.
• Large mixing bowl – perfect for tossing wings with seasoning and glaze.
• Small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl – to gently warm and mix the honey lemon glaze.
• Air fryer (optional) – great for faster cooking with extra crispiness without oil.
• Tongs – help you flip wings and toss them in the glaze easily without mess.

Flavor Variations & Add-Ins

• Swap chicken wings for drumsticks or boneless wings for different textures but similar cooking times.
• Add a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika to the seasoning for a spicy or smoky twist.
• Mix in fresh chopped rosemary or thyme with lemon pepper for an herby note.
• Drizzle with a little sriracha or hot sauce along with honey for a sweet and spicy combo.

Lemon Pepper Wings with Honey

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For the Wings:

• 2 pounds chicken wings, split into flats and drumettes
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon lemon pepper seasoning
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Honey Lemon Glaze:

• 2 tablespoons butter, melted
• 3 tablespoons honey
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds

For Garnish:

• Fresh lemon wedges
• Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (optional)
• A small bowl of honey for dipping (optional)

Time You’ll Need

Getting these wings ready takes about 10 minutes of prep and then 20-40 minutes for cooking, depending on your method. If you use the oven, plan for about 35-40 minutes, while the air fryer will take roughly 20-25 minutes. Adding a few minutes to warm the glaze and toss the wings is all you need to finish.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Dry and Season the Wings

Start by patting your chicken wings dry using paper towels. This extra step helps the skin get nice and crispy. Next, toss the wings in a big bowl with salt, black pepper, lemon pepper seasoning, and olive oil. Make sure every wing is well-coated with this tasty mix.

2. Cook the Wings

If you’re using the oven, preheat it to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top. Spread the wings out so they’re not touching, then bake for 35-40 minutes, flipping them halfway through for even cooking and a golden crisp.

For an air fryer, heat it to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the wings in the basket without overcrowding, and cook for 20-25 minutes. Shake or turn them about halfway through to keep them crisp on all sides.

3. Make the Honey Lemon Glaze

While the wings are cooking, mix together melted butter, honey, and fresh lemon juice in a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl. Warm gently until everything is combined and a little syrupy.

4. Coat the Wings

When the wings are done cooking, place them back in the large bowl and pour the honey lemon glaze over them. Toss well so each wing gets a sticky, delicious coating.

5. Add Final Touches and Serve

Sprinkle sesame seeds over the glazed wings and add chopped parsley or cilantro if you like. Arrange with fresh lemon wedges on the side. For extra sweetness, serve with a little bowl of honey for dipping.

Enjoy your bright, sweet, and peppery Lemon Pepper Wings with Honey – they’re sure to be a crowd-pleaser!

Can I Use Frozen Wings for This Recipe?

Yes! Just make sure to fully thaw the wings in the refrigerator overnight and pat them dry before seasoning to ensure they crisp up nicely.

Can I Make These Wings Ahead of Time?

Absolutely. Cook and glaze the wings, then refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to regain crispiness before serving.

How Should I Store Leftover Wings?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a preheated oven or air fryer for best texture rather than the microwave.

What Can I Serve with Lemon Pepper Wings?

These wings pair wonderfully with crunchy celery sticks, carrot sticks, or a light salad. You can also serve them with ranch or blue cheese dip to balance the citrusy flavors.