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Grilled Hot Honey Lemon Pepper Wings

Grilled Hot Honey Lemon Pepper Wings

These wings are a perfect balance of smoky char, sticky sweetness, and bright, peppery heat. The key to the sauce is emulsifying cold butter into the warm honey mixture; this creates a glossy glaze that actually clings to the wings instead of sliding off. Making the sauce ahead of time is crucial, as you'll want to toss the wings the second they come off the hot grill.
Prep Time15 minutes
Active Time45 minutes
Air Drying2 hours
Total Time3 hours
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Ingredients

For the Wings

  • 3 pounds chicken wings split into flats and drumettes
  • 1.5 tablespoons Diamond Crystal kosher salt
  • 2 teaspoons coarsely ground black pepper
  • 1.5 teaspoons smoked paprika
  • 3/4 teaspoon onion powder
  • 3/4 teaspoon garlic powder

For the Hot Honey Sauce

  • 2/3 cup honey
  • 1.5 tablespoons red pepper flakes
  • 2 teaspoons coarsely ground black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 4 tablespoons 1/2 stick unsalted butter, cold and cubed
  • 1 tablespoon grated lemon zest
  • 1/2 teaspoon Diamond Crystal kosher salt

Instructions

  • Pat the wings dry with the paper towels.
  • Mix the kosher salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, onion powder, and garlic powder in a small bowl.
  • Coat the wings evenly with the spice mixture in a large bowl.
  • For crispier skin, place the wings on a wire rack over a baking sheet and refrigerate uncovered for 2 hours or overnight.
  • In a small saucepan, warm the honey, red pepper flakes, black pepper, and lemon juice over low heat until just pourable.
  • Remove from the heat and whisk in the cold butter cubes gradually until smooth and glossy.
  • Stir in the lemon zest and salt. Set aside.
  • Set up the grill for two-zone cooking at 375F.
  • Place the wings on the indirect heat side and cook for 25-30 minutes.
  • Flip the wings and cook another 15-20 minutes until they reach 165F internally.
  • Move the wings to direct heat and sear until crispy with charred spots, flipping frequently.
  • Continue cooking until internal temperature reaches 180-185F.
  • Transfer the hot wings to a large bowl and toss with the honey sauce until fully coated.
  • Serve immediately.

Notes

Do not let the honey sauce simmer or boil.
The higher cooking temperature (180-185F) helps render more fat for better texture.