Name: Honey-Lemon-Pepper Chicken Wings (Crispy Oven)
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 2 pounds chicken wings (patted dry); 1/4 cup honey; 1/4 cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed); 1 tablespoon lemon zest; 1 teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; salt (to taste); 2 tablespoons olive oil; fresh parsley (for garnish)

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If you’re craving wings that strike the perfect balance between sweet, tangy, and peppery, then these Honey-Lemon-Pepper Chicken Wings (Crispy Oven) are going to be your new go-to. Imagine crispy, golden wings coated in a vibrant glaze of honey and fresh lemon juice, with just the right kick from black pepper and aromatic garlic and onion powders. This recipe is simple, uses pantry staples, and comes together quickly for a crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for game day, family dinners, or casual entertaining.

Why Honey-Lemon-Pepper Chicken Wings (Crispy Oven) is Worth Your Time

Chicken wings are a beloved comfort food, but sometimes they get lost in the sea of buffalo or barbecue flavors. This version offers a fresh, zesty twist that feels light yet indulgent. The oven-baked method means less mess and less oil than frying, but with just as much crispiness — thanks to a little olive oil and the magic of high heat. The honey and lemon combo creates a glossy, irresistible coating that’s both sticky and tangy, making every bite unforgettable. Plus, the black pepper adds a subtle heat without overpowering the other flavors.

Whether you’re looking to impress guests or just want an easy, flavorful weeknight meal, these wings deliver on all fronts. If you love dishes like Creamy Lemon Pepper Turkey Meatball Penne or Lemon Garlic Herb Chicken Spaghetti, this wing recipe will fit right into your rotation.

Ingredient Breakdown

2 pounds chicken wings: The star of the show. Make sure your wings are patted dry for maximum crispiness.
1/4 cup honey: Adds natural sweetness and helps create a sticky, caramelized glaze.
1/4 cup lemon juice: Freshly squeezed is best to provide bright acidity that balances the honey.
1 tablespoon lemon zest: Intensifies the lemon flavor without adding extra liquid.
1 teaspoon black pepper: Gives the wings a subtle heat and depth.
1 teaspoon garlic powder: Offers savory warmth.
1 teaspoon onion powder: Adds a mild sweetness and complexity.
Salt to taste: Enhances all the natural flavors.
2 tablespoons olive oil: Helps the skin crisp up beautifully in the oven.
Fresh parsley for garnish: Adds a pop of color and fresh herbaceous notes.

Hardware & Gadgets

Oven: For perfectly crispy wings without frying.
Baking sheet with wire rack: Elevates the wings so air circulates underneath for even crisping.
Mixing bowls: For combining marinade and tossing wings.
Tongs or spatula: Easy handling of the wings before and after baking.
Microplane or fine grater: To zest the lemon.
Measuring cups and spoons: For precise ingredient amounts.

Stepwise Method: Honey-Lemon-Pepper Chicken Wings (Crispy Oven)

1. Preheat your oven and prep the wings

Set your oven to 425°F (220°C). Pat the chicken wings dry with paper towels — this step is crucial for crispiness. If you have a wire rack, place it on a baking sheet for even heat circulation.

2. Make the honey-lemon-pepper marinade

In a large bowl, whisk together honey, lemon juice, lemon zest, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and olive oil until well combined. This mixture will be your flavorful glaze.

3. Toss the wings

Add the dried wings to the bowl with the marinade. Toss well to ensure every wing is coated evenly. Let them sit for 10-15 minutes to absorb the flavors while the oven finishes preheating.

4. Arrange wings on the rack

Place the wings on the wire rack in a single layer, skin side up. This positioning helps the skin crisp up nicely.

5. Bake for crispiness

Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through to brown both sides. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning, especially towards the end.

6. Broil for extra crisp

For an extra crispy finish, switch the oven to broil for the last 3-5 minutes. Watch carefully to avoid overcooking.

7. Garnish and serve

Remove the wings from the oven and transfer to a serving platter. Sprinkle fresh parsley over the top for color and freshness.

Quick Replacement Ideas

Chicken drumettes or boneless wings: Can be used if you prefer smaller or boneless pieces.
Maple syrup instead of honey: Offers a slightly different sweetness and depth.
Fresh garlic minced instead of powder: For a more pungent garlic flavor, add finely minced garlic to the marinade.
Smoked paprika: Add 1/2 teaspoon for a smoky undertone.
Butter instead of olive oil: Use melted butter for a richer glaze, though olive oil keeps it lighter.

Steer Clear of These

Using wet wings straight from the package without drying — this will lead to soggy skin.
Skipping the wire rack — placing wings directly on the baking sheet can cause them to steam instead of crisp.
Overloading the baking tray — crowding wings will prevent proper air circulation and crispiness.
Using bottled lemon juice — fresh lemon juice and zest bring a brighter, fresher flavor.

How to Store & Reheat

Store any leftover wings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), spread the wings on a baking sheet, and heat for 8-10 minutes until warmed through and crisp again. Avoid microwaving as it can make the skin rubbery.

Handy Q&A

Can I make these wings ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can marinate the wings a few hours or even overnight in the fridge. Just keep them covered and bake right before serving for best results.

How do I get the wings extra crispy without frying?

Dry the wings thoroughly, use a wire rack for baking, and consider broiling for the last few minutes. The olive oil also helps the skin crisp up beautifully.

Can I use this honey-lemon-pepper sauce on other chicken cuts?

Definitely! This sauce is fantastic on baked chicken thighs or drumsticks. For a full meal, try pairing it with Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs Over Orzo for a complementary flavor profile.

Is this recipe spicy?

The black pepper adds a mild heat, but this recipe isn’t overly spicy. You can increase black pepper or add a dash of cayenne if you prefer a spicier kick.

Reader Favorites

Creamy Lemon Pepper Turkey Meatball Penne — a luscious pasta dish that shares the same bright lemon pepper flavor.
Lemon Garlic Herb Chicken Spaghetti — a fresh pasta recipe that complements the citrusy theme.
Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs Over Orzo — a hearty yet simple option featuring a cozy honey garlic glaze.

Serve & Enjoy

These Honey-Lemon-Pepper Chicken Wings (Crispy Oven) shine when served hot right out of the oven. Pair them with a crisp green salad, some crunchy veggies with ranch or blue cheese dip, or your favorite side like roasted potatoes or coleslaw. Whether it’s a casual night in or a weekend party spread, these wings will disappear fast — so have plenty on hand!

The beauty of this recipe is in its simplicity and balance of flavors. The crispy oven method keeps it easy and relatively hands-off, while the honey-lemon-pepper glaze keeps things exciting. Add this to your weekly lineup and watch it become a new favorite. Enjoy every bite!

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