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Crispy Air Fryer Hot Honey Lemon Pepper Chicken Wings | Easy & Healthy Recipe

Chicken wings have long been a favourite treat, whether for game day, family gatherings, or simply a weekend snack. However, the traditional method of deep-frying often leads to a greasy, calorie-laden dish. Enter the air fryer – a kitchen gadget that has revolutionised the way we cook, making it possible to enjoy crispy, succulent chicken wings with far less oil. In this article, we will explore how to make crispy air fryer hot honey lemon pepper chicken wings that are not only easy to prepare but also healthier than their deep-fried counterparts.

Ingredients

For the Wings

• 1 kg chicken wings (split into flats and drumettes)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

For the Hot Honey Lemon Pepper Sauce

• 3 tablespoons honey
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed for best results)
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• 1 tablespoon lemon pepper seasoning

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Wing Marinade

Start by rinsing the chicken wings under cold water and patting them dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for ensuring maximum crispiness. In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken wings to the bowl and toss to coat them evenly in the marinade. Allow them to sit for about 15 minutes while you prepare your sauce.

Step 2: Make the Hot Honey Lemon Pepper Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, freshly squeezed lemon juice, lemon zest, crushed red pepper flakes, and lemon pepper seasoning. Taste the sauce – if you prefer a spicier kick, feel free to add a bit more crushed red pepper. Set this sauce aside for later.

Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 200°C (392°F) for about 5 minutes. Preheating helps achieve that coveted crispy exterior.

Step 4: Air Fry the Wings

Place the marinated chicken wings in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they are not overcrowded. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook in batches. Air fry the wings for 25-30 minutes, turning them halfway through cooking to ensure even crispiness. Check for doneness – the wings should be golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 75°C (165°F).

Step 5: Toss in the Hot Honey Lemon Pepper Sauce

Once the wings are cooked, transfer them to a large bowl while they’re still hot. Drizzle the prepared hot honey lemon pepper sauce over the wings and toss until they are evenly coated. The warmth from the wings will help the sauce stick perfectly.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Plate the hot honey lemon pepper chicken wings and serve immediately. For an extra touch, garnish with chopped fresh parsley and lemon slices. Pair these delicious wings with a side of crunchy celery sticks and your favourite dipping sauce for a delightful meal or snack.

Why Air Frying?

Air frying offers a healthier alternative to traditional frying methods. By using significantly less oil, air-fried foods contain fewer calories and unhealthy fats. The rapid circulation of hot air in an air fryer not only cooks the food evenly but also creates that satisfying crispiness we’ve all come to love.

Conclusion

These crispy air fryer hot honey lemon pepper chicken wings are a fantastic addition to your recipe repertoire. They’re easy to make, packed with flavour, and can be enjoyed guilt-free. Perfect for entertaining or simply indulging at home, you won’t be able to resist going back for seconds. Try this recipe today, and elevate your chicken wing game to a whole new level of deliciousness!

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