Spicy Lemon Thyme Wet Wings with Lemon Basil Aioli

Lemon pepper wings just got a holiday glow-up. These Spicy Lemon Thyme Wet Wings are buttery, herby, zesty, and completely addictive. Finished with a cool Lemon Basil Aioli that ties the flavors together, this recipe is perfect for parties, game days, or any holiday spread.

Ingredients

Lemon Basil Aioli

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise

• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice

• 1 tsp lemon zest

• 1 small garlic clove, minced (or 1/2 tsp roasted garlic paste)

• 1/4 cup fresh basil, finely chopped

• 1/2 tsp Spiceology Pink Peppercorn Lemon Thyme seasoning

• Pinch of salt and pepper to taste

• (Optional) 1/2 tsp honey – adds balance if your wings run spicy

• (Optional) 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes – for a subtle kick

Instructions:

1. Combine all ingredients in a small bowl and mix until smooth.

2. Chill for at least 30 minutes while preparing the wings.

Dry Seasoning Mix

• 2 tsp kosher salt

• 1 tsp black pepper

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika

• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper

• 1 tbsp Spiceology Pink Peppercorn Lemon Thyme seasoning

• (Optional) 1/2 tsp MSG – for extra umami depth

Note: Mix everything in a small container, but you won’t use all of it. Just enough to evenly coat the wings—save the rest for next time.

Wings

• 2 lbs chicken wings (flats and drums)

• Cooking oil spray

Instructions:

1. Pat the wings completely dry using paper towels.

2. Toss them in a large bowl and sprinkle with your seasoning mix, using only enough to coat evenly.

3. Spray your air fryer rack with cooking oil to prevent sticking.

4. Arrange the wings in a single layer and air fry at 400°F for 18–20 minutes, flipping and spraying with oil halfway through.

Spicy Lemon Thyme Wet Sauce

• 6 tbsp unsalted butter

• 1 tbsp hot sauce (Crystal, Frank’s, or Louisiana)

• 1 1/2 tsp honey

• 1 tsp brown sugar

• Juice of 1/4 lemon

• 1 1/2 tbsp Spiceology Pink Peppercorn Lemon Thyme seasoning

• (Optional) 1/2 tsp Cajun seasoning – for extra heat and depth

• (Optional) 1/4 tsp lemon zest – for a pop of fresh brightness

Instructions:

1. In a small saucepan over low heat, melt butter until it foams and starts to brown slightly.

2. Add hot sauce, honey, brown sugar, lemon juice, and seasoning.

3. Simmer for 2 minutes, whisking until glossy.

To Finish

1. Once the wings are done, toss them in a large bowl with the hot sauce mixture.

2. Let them sit for a minute so the glaze clings to the skin.

3. Garnish with parsley and fresh lemon zest.

4. Serve with your Lemon Basil Aioli on the side or drizzled on top.

Pro Tips

• Don’t oversalt: The Spiceology blend has great flavor intensity—start light and add more if needed.

• Crispier skin: Dry your wings thoroughly and don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket.

• Extra sauce? Drizzle more on the wings for that ATL-style “extra wet” finish.

Pairing Suggestion

Pair these wings with a Belgian Witbier for citrusy refreshment or a Hazy IPA for a juicy, tropical contrast. Either way, it’s a Pour Choice worth celebrating.

Perfect for:

Holiday parties, game days, or any night you want restaurant-level wings without the deep fryer.

When life gives you lemons... make wings and Pour Choices.