Sweet + Spicy Hot Honey Peach Lemon Pepper Wings
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Sweet + Spicy Hot Honey Peach Lemon Pepper Wings
Make extra-crispy, perfectly sweet, just-spicy-enough Sweet + Spicy Hot Honey Peach Lemon Pepper Wings with an easy sauce mixture that has a delicious sweet-spicy flavor, seasoned to perfection with a lemon pepper blend, and a nicely juicy center. The perfect appetizer or main meat that can be served with your favorite sides or dipping sauce---whether during dinner or brunch or lunch. Air Fryer + Gluten-Free options.
Wings are by far one of my favorite things to eat ever since childhood. They are literally the things that I find make the perfect appetizer, main meat item, snack, or breakfast. Haha. And these Sweet + Spicy Hot Honey Peach Lemon Pepper Wings are seriously the best ones I've made in a while. They were inspiration from my Lemon Pepper Buffalo Wings and Hot Honey Baked Chicken Breasts which fuses both flavors in such a delicious, savory way!
These Sweet and Spicy Chicken Wings are just what our Summer needs, especially with the bold peach flavor profile and I can guarantee that once you try these---you'll be hooked. Plus, these Baked Jamaican Jerk Chicken Wings, Garlic Parmesan Chicken Wings and Sticky Gochujang Chicken Wings are truly the next best thing! Oh and this Vegan Peach Crisp Oatmeal Porridge is so comforting for breakfast and worth trying.
I couldn't be more excited to share this recipe with you all and be rest assured that these sticky sweet + spicy peach lemon pepper chicken wings are super easy to make, are sweet enough and savory, can be done in both the oven or air-fryer, and is the perfect addition to so many meal ideas for all occasions.
Jump to:
- What Are Hot Honey Peach Lemon Pepper Wings Made of?
- Do I Use Cornstarch or Flour for Crispy Chicken?
- How to Make Sweet + Spicy Hot Honey Peach Lemon Pepper Wings
- Ingredients for Chicken Wings
- Why You'll Love This Homemade Lemon Pepper Seasoning
- Why You Will LOVE these Wings!
- What are the Two Types of Wings?
- How to Prep + Season Wings
- When Are Peaches in Season?
- How To Make Homemade Hot Honey Sauce?
- Tips + Tricks for The Crispiest Chicken Wings
- Do You Bake or Fry Hot Honey Lemon Pepper Wings?
- What to Serve with Sweet + Spicy Hot Honey Peach Lemon Pepper Wings
- Common Sweet + Spicy Hot Honey Peach Lemon Pepper Wings Q+A's
- More Delicious Peach + Chicken Recipes to Try Next!
- MADE OUR RECIPE(S)?
- Sweet + Spicy Hot Honey Peach Lemon Pepper Wings
What Are Hot Honey Peach Lemon Pepper Wings Made of?
These Hot Honey Peach Lemon Pepper Wings can be whipped together using just a handful of ingredients: chicken wings, lemon pepper seasoning, cornstarch, smoked paprika, hot honey, peach preserves/jam, butter, and a bit of chicken stock.
Just toss together the sauce ingredients in a skillet and wallah!
Do I Use Cornstarch or Flour for Crispy Chicken?
OK, so this is one of the hot debates as it relates to which one creates the crispier chicken or chicken wings. While cornstarch does add extra layer of crispiness for your chicken, using flour still works too!
But to best honest, the best kept secret is the combination of both cornstarch and flour (equal parts, so that's 2 Tbsps EACH for this recipe), which creates the crispiest results. Of course, if you're looking to make this fried chicken recipe gluten-free, then substitute the cornstarch or flour with arrowroot starch or a great all-purpose flour.
How to Make Sweet + Spicy Hot Honey Peach Lemon Pepper Wings
The best part about any wing is the crispy coating that is formed without an “actual coating”. And these wings do not disappoint. I talk more about tips to making these wings nice and crispy, but let’s talk about this delicious recipe.
The THREE parts of these wings are the chicken wings, lemon pepper seasoning, and the hot honey sauce.
Ingredients for Chicken Wings
Here’s what you need for these delicious Sweet + Spicy Hot Honey Peach Lemon Pepper Wings:
- Chicken wings. I like to use organic wings that are disjointed (comes in two pieces) for a better cook. You can also use whole pieces of chicken (i.e. drumsticks, thighs, etc.) if preferred. For a meatless option, see my Lemon Pepper Cauliflower Wings recipe.
- Lemon pepper seasoning. You can easily make your own homemade blend or use a store-bought version.
- Smoked paprika. This adds an extra layer of complexity to the wings. Gives a delicious earthy, smoky flavor. You can use regular paprika, if desired.
- Cornstarch. Used for the "coating" of the wings for an extra crispiness. You can sub with arrowroot starch, flour, tapioca flour, etc.
- Salted butter. This adds additional flavor to the sauce. You can also use unsalted butter + ½ teaspoon of salt to the sauce. For a dairy-free option, feel free to use vegan butter.
- Hot honey. I like using Mike's Hot Honey --- Adjust based on sweet/heat preference!
- Red pepper flakes. Use as much or as little spice as you like for the sauce. Adds additional flavor, but is optional.
- Peach preserves or jam. I like to use organic preserves/jam by Bonne Maman or St. Dalfour, however, homemade jam works great too!
- Chicken stock. I like to use organic chicken stock, you can also use veggie stock if preferred.
- Garlic. Fresh minced or grated garlic also works.
Why You'll Love This Homemade Lemon Pepper Seasoning
- Burst of Flavor: It brings a vibrant and zesty flavor to your dishes.
- Versatility: It complements a wide range of dishes.
- Homemade Goodness: You can enjoy a fresh and additive-free seasoning blend made right in your own kitchen.
- Customizable: Adjust the intensity and ingredients to suit your taste preferences.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 5 minutes.
With its vibrant taste, versatility, and homemade goodness, this lemon pepper seasoning is sure to become a staple in your kitchen, elevating your dishes to new levels of deliciousness.
Why You Will LOVE these Wings!
- Versatile snack, appetizer, or side option.
- Boasts of a great air fryer + gluten-free option.
- Zesty, spicy, and sweet bold flavor combo.
- The perfect crispiness on the outside + juiciness on the inside!
- Such nostalgia with the classic lemon pepper seasoning.
- Addictively tasty + irresistible for the entire family.
What are the Two Types of Wings?
When it comes to wings, there are two types: Drums (a.k.a. drumettes) and flats (a.k.a. wingettes). The drums actually look like miniature chicken legs and have one single bone in the middle surrounded by meat, whereas the flats are “flat” and contain two smaller bones that runs the length of the wing.
How to Prep + Season Wings
Baking these Sweet + Spicy Hot Honey Peach Lemon Pepper Wings are generally an easy process—in total just under 1 hour due to the process of cooking the chicken wings and making and tossing them in the hot honey sauce. You first start by cleaning and washing your chicken pieces to ensure that they are clean and ready to be seasoned. I like to wash my chicken wings with both vinegar and lemon to help keep things clean and sanitized.
Once your chicken wings are clean, then it’s time to pat them dry and season them! I’m all about seasoning every “layer” of my food, therefore, the chicken gets direct lemon pepper seasoning and the sauce gets a bit of seasoning as well. Let everything marinate for 10-15 minutes or 1-2 days (or overnight tightly wrapped in the refrigerator) for the best results.
SHOP MY FAVORITE TOOLS FOR BAKING, ESPECIALLY FOR THIS CHICKEN!
Here, I’ve curated a list of baking essentials that I use to achieve my favorite baked goods, especially with this Sweet + Spicy Hot Honey Peach Lemon Pepper Wings recipe. Everything from my fave skillet pans, wooden spoons, parchment paper, and more. SEE THEM HERE!
When Are Peaches in Season?
The United States sees its peak peach season every summer. You will begin to see them emerge in grocery stores around May, with September being the end of the season. The peak harvest season for peaches is July and August.
I like to get my peaches from the freshest source possible. When peaches are already very ripe, I usually pass on them. I generally like to allow the peach to soften and ripen on my countertop so I can keep an eye on them. Overripe peaches are hard to revive. Buying firmer peaches gives you more time to make a variety of recipes with them.
If you buy your peaches at the farmer’s market, the farmer will likely tell you all about the growing process. I have learned so much about produce by simply talking to the local farmers that sell at my local summer market. They are always helpful in identifying types of peaches, how they grow, and how to cook them.
This goes for any fruit, not only peaches. During cherry season, farmers will market their freshest cherries. During apple and pumpkin season, you barely see any other type of produce. Seasonal fresh produce is the best way to pick the freshest fruit available.
How To Make Homemade Hot Honey Sauce?
Heat a medium 10-inch skillet over medium-high heat. Melt the butter and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant (about 1-2 minutes). Add honey, cayenne pepper, chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, red pepper flakes, and a pinch of salt. Stir until the sauce becomes smooth and thick. Remove from heat, and you're left with a delicious homemade hot honey sauce. Enjoy! See my Hot Honey Baked Chicken Breasts recipe for instructions!
Tips + Tricks for The Crispiest Chicken Wings
To make sure your chicken wings get as crispy as possible without needing an actual “coating”, follow these simple tips:
- After rinsing your wings, be sure to pat dry completely until they are as dry as possible before marinating them.
- Make sure each wing has plenty of space on the baking sheet or baking dish. The airflow helps things crisp up.
- When using a baking sheet, add a wire rack atop the parchment paper so that wings can crisp up nicely on all sides.
- Cook wings until crisp prior to adding sauce so that they have minimal liquid.
- Broiling your wings for about 5 minutes or so helps to get them nice and crispy without burning.
- Always toss your crispy wings in the sauce for a minute or two or until fully coated to avoid keeping them in the sauce too long and making them soggy.
Do You Bake or Fry Hot Honey Lemon Pepper Wings?
Of course, both methods of making these Sweet + Spicy Hot Honey Peach Lemon Pepper Wings are effective. However, if you’re wondering whether you’d be able to also make these wings in an air-fryer—-then yes!
To make your crispy chicken wings in an air fryer, it's very similar to doing it the oven. The only difference would be the cook time and adding them to a basket versus a baking sheet. Once you've seasoned and dusted your chicken wings, add them to your air fryer basket, spray with cooking oil, and cook them at 360 degrees for 10-15 minutes. NOTE: You might want to spray your basket with cooking oil to ensure that your chicken doesn't stick to it during cooking.
As you know, this recipe is for baked wings and honestly, they’re just as crispy as using them in the airy-fryer (especially when you broil them in the last round), so the choice is yours!
What to Serve with Sweet + Spicy Hot Honey Peach Lemon Pepper Wings
These Sweet + Spicy Hot Honey Peach Lemon Pepper Wings are full of flavor all on their own, but who doesn’t love to dunk and dip----right? So, feel free to serve your wings with any (or all) of these tasty condiments:
- Easy Garlic Parmesan Sauce
- Creamy Lemon Garlic Dressing
- In-N-Out Sauce
- Ranch Sauce
- Honey mustard
- Creamy Chipotle Dressing/Sauce
- Blue cheese
- More hot sauce!
However, if you're thinking about serving these chicken wings with something to create a complete, full meal, then I recommend trying my favorite ways to incorporate them:
- Enjoy them with a salad. I’m obsessed with this Roasted Cauliflower Green Goddess Salad or Green Goddess Pasta Salad or Ultimate Smashed Cucumber Salad or Spicy Chipotle Sweet Potato Chopped Salad.
- Make a fun meal by pairing them with light handheld sides. My top fave handheld side recipes are Seasoned Crinkle Cut Fries, Crispiest Seasoned French Fries, Crispy Cajun Sweet Potato Fries, and Crispiest Jumbo Garlic Herb Fries.
- Eat them with more traditional sides. This Stovetop Southern Mac and Cheese or My Childhood Velveeta Mac and Cheese or Grown-Up Baked Jerk Mac and Cheese or Southern Baked Mac and Cheese are the absolute best! Plus, I love these Garlic Herb Biscuits, Flaky Honey Buttermilk Biscuits, Vegan Quinoa Fried Rice, Ultra Creamy Cheesy Garlic Vegan Mashed Potatoes, and Garlic Herb Smashed Potatoes.
- Create a full eating experience as an addition to other dishes. I’m always in love with these Dairy-Free Mexican Street Corn Nachos as well as this Ultimate Summer BBQ Chopped Kale Salad, Easy Weeknight Creamy Tuscan Ravioli, Grandma’s Cheese Sheet Pan Pizza, Ultra-Creamy Southern Cheese Grits, and Creamy Jamaican Rasta Pasta.
Common Sweet + Spicy Hot Honey Peach Lemon Pepper Wings Q+A's
Any leftovers can be kept in a tightly sealed container and refrigerated for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven at 375 degrees Fahrenheit or microwave when ready to serve.
Absolutely! To make these wings GF, just ensure that all sauce ingredients (like preserves/jam and chicken stock) are GF-friendly and the best alternative to cornstarch is arrowroot starch or Gf flour.
Yes! To make your own blend of Lemon Pepper Seasoning, see my recipe!
The most effective way to get the hot honey sauce to stick to your wings is by: getting the sauce to a nice "sticky" consistency when cooking it or baking the sauce on. Once your wings are fully baked + crispy, simply make the sauce in the skillet, toss them in the sauce, and add them back to the baking sheet with the wire rack and broil them for 5 minutes or so, until the sauce sticks.
Traditionally, most hot honey wings recipes are tossed in the sauce after they are baked and crispy. This helps them to soak up the sauce nicely without becoming soggy.
You can totally bake your chicken wings at 350 degrees Fahrenheit, however, I find that cooking them at 400 degrees Fahrenheit will result in a crispy skin in a shorter time. I personally find the results better with the latter.
After cleaning and rinsing your wings, if the chicken isn't dry by patting them dry then the chicken wings won't crisp up. Also, the use of the cornstarch helps to create a crispy outside as well. Lastly, as mentioned in my tips section of the post, using a baking sheet with a wire rack is key!
Of course! You can easily whip together your own hot honey in a skillet using a handful of ingredients. See my Hot Honey Baked Chicken Breasts recipe for ingredient list + instructions!
Yup! To make your crispy chicken wings in an air fryer, it's very similar to doing it the oven. The only difference would be the cook time and adding them to a basket versus a baking sheet. Once you've seasoned and dusted your chicken wings, add them to your air fryer basket, spray with cooking oil, and cook them at 360 degrees for 10-15 minutes. NOTE: You might want to spray your basket with cooking oil to ensure that your chicken doesn't stick to it during cooking. Continue recipe!
More Delicious Peach + Chicken Recipes to Try Next!
- Crispy Oven Fried Chicken
- Nourishing Jamaican Chicken Soup
- Jamaican Brown Stew Chicken
- Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Soup
- Peach Cobbler Baked French Toast
- Peach Cobbler Milkshake
- BBQ Chicken Peach Chopped Salad
- Southern Baked Maple Citrus Chicken Legs
- Creamy Tuscan 'Marry Me' Chicken
- Hot Honey Peach Margarita Mocktail
- Chicken Birria Grilled Cheese
MADE OUR RECIPE(S)?
If you tried this Sweet + Spicy Hot Honey Peach Lemon Pepper Wings recipe or any other recipe on my website, please please leave a 🌟 star rating and let me know how you go in the 📝 comments below. I love hearing from you.
Sweet + Spicy Hot Honey Peach Lemon Pepper Wings
Ingredients
CHICKEN WINGS:
- 2 ½ lbs. organic chicken wings, disjointed
- 2 Tbsps lemon pepper seasoning, homemade or store-bought
- ¼ cup cornstarch (You can also use 2 Tbsps of cornstarch + 2 Tbsps flour for the best results)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
SAUCE:
- 1 cup peach preserves/jam, organic
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- ¼ cup hot honey, homemade or store-bought (See Post for Homemade version)
- 2 Tbsps salted butter (You can also use unsalted butter + add ½ teaspoon of salt to sauce)
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes, optional
- 2-4 Tbsps organic chicken stock
Instructions
MARINATE THE CHICKEN WINGS:
- In a large bowl, add your freshly cleaned + rinsed chicken wings along with the lemon pepper seasoning, smoked paprika, and cornstarch, mixing everything together until chicken is fully coated. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes. NOTE: For best results, it's best to marinate chicken overnight in the refrigerator or for up to 2 days.
- Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or non-stick foil paper and a wire rack (if using) for the best crispy results. NOTE: be sure to generously spray the wire rack to ensure that wings don't stick.
BAKE THE CHICKEN:
- Lay each chicken wing side by side onto the baking sheet (about an inch apart). Repeat until all chicken wings are assembled. Bake chicken wings for 25-30 minutes or until crispy and golden.
WHIP TOGETHER THE SAUCE + TOSS WINGS:
- In a medium skillet (10-inch) over medium-high heat, add the butter and let it melt. Then add in the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute. Add the hot honey, peach preserves/jam, chicken stock, and red pepper flakes (if using), and whisk everything together until it begins to boil. Reduce heat to low and allow the sauce to simmer for 1-2 minutes until is had a "sticky" consistency.
- Once the wings have become crispy, remove from the oven and add them to the sauce, tossing until wings are fully coated.
- Serve wings immediately with your favorite side (fries, garlic bread, mashed potatoes, mac + cheese, rice, etc.) or salad.
- Bon Appetit!
Tips & Tricks
- STORAGE: Any leftovers can be kept in a tightly sealed container and refrigerated for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven at 375 degrees Fahrenheit or microwave when ready to serve.
- GLUTEN-FREE OPTION: To make these wings GF, just ensure that all sauce ingredients (like preserves/jam and chicken stock) are GF-friendly and the best alternative to cornstarch is arrowroot starch or Gf flour.
- LEMON PEPPER SEASONING (HOMEMADE): To make your own blend of Lemon Pepper Seasoning, see my recipe!
- TIPS FOR CRISPY WINGS: See the post for all tips for making the most crispiest chicken wings.
- AIR FRYER + GLUTEN-FREE OPTIONS: See FAQ section!
Nutrition
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These are my Favorite type of wings but hot honey just puts it over the top!!