Honey & Za'atar Chicken Wings Recipe
Published on May 9th, 2025
Intermediate
Looking for the ultimate crowd-pleaser with bold flavours and irresistible texture? This honey za'atar chicken wings recipe delivers exactly that. These gloriously sticky wings are a flavour explosion inspired by Middle Eastern chicken wings recipes, combining the earthy, herby notes of za'atar with the sweetness of honey and a hint of spice. They're perfect for parties, barbecues, or a cosy night in.
Why You’ll Love These Za'atar Chicken Wings
With every bite, these honey and za'atar wings offer layers of flavour—from citrusy zest and aromatic garlic to warm paprika and smoky-sweet honey. The za'atar adds a savoury complexity that sets these apart from typical spicy honey chicken wings. Plus, the prep is simple, and the oven does most of the work.
Ingredients (serves 6)
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 4 tbsp za’atar spice mix
- 1 tbsp smoked paprika
- 1 medium white onion, finely chopped
- 1½ tbsp clear honey
- 4 garlic cloves, crushed
- 1 unwaxed lemon (zest and juice)
- 1 tsp salt
- 3 x 475g packs chicken wings
- 1 red chilli, finely chopped (optional)
- 180g herby labneh yogurt dip, to serve
Instructions: How to Make Honey and Za’atar Wings
- In a large bowl or resealable food bag, combine olive oil, za’atar, paprika, honey, crushed garlic, lemon zest and juice, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Add the chicken wings and toss well to coat evenly. Cover and chill in the fridge for 2–4 hours to let the flavours infuse.
- Preheat the oven to 200ºC (Gas Mark 6). Take the marinated wings out of the fridge about 30 minutes before cooking. Arrange them in a single layer on a large non-stick baking tray, discarding excess marinade. Roast for 35–40 minutes, turning halfway through, until the wings are sticky, golden, and cooked through. The juices should run clear, and there should be no pink meat.
- Let the wings rest for 10 minutes. Sprinkle with finely chopped red chilli if you like an extra kick. Serve with a generous scoop of herby labneh yogurt dip for a creamy, cooling contrast.
Why This Middle Eastern Chicken Wings Recipe Works
• Za'atar spice blend: A fragrant mix of thyme, oregano, sesame seeds, and sumac that adds a unique depth to the wings.
• Honey glaze: Balances the herbs and garlic, creating that signature sticky texture.
• Smoked paprika: Enhances the Middle Eastern flavour profile and adds subtle heat.
• Labneh dip: Its tangy richness complements the warmth of the wings.
Whether you’re an experienced home cook or just starting out, this za’atar chicken wings recipe is surprisingly easy and yields professional-tasting results every time. It’s also flexible—skip the chilli for a milder version or pair with a fresh tabbouleh salad for a full Middle Eastern feast.
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