Baked Buffalo Chicken Wings
Are you ready to elevate your game day snacking to a whole new level? Baked Buffalo Chicken Wings are the perfect blend of crispy, spicy, and utterly delicious. Unlike their fried counterparts, these wings are baked to perfection, making them a healthier option without sacrificing flavor. Whether you’re hosting a party, watching the big game, or just craving something spicy and satisfying, this recipe is sure to impress. Let’s dive into the details of creating these mouthwatering wings that will have everyone asking for seconds!
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
You’ll love the simplicity of this Baked Buffalo Chicken Wings recipe. With just a few ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up a batch of wings that are both flavorful and crispy. The use of buffalo wing sauce gives them that iconic tangy heat, while the baking method ensures that they are less greasy than traditional fried wings. Plus, the recipe is incredibly versatile; you can adjust the spice levels to suit your taste. Perfect for any occasion, these wings are bound to be a hit!
What You’ll Gather
- 2 pounds chicken wings
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1 teaspoon pepper (or to taste)
- 1 cup buffalo wing sauce (I used Frank’s)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
Tools & Equipment Needed
- Large mixing bowl – for tossing the chicken wings with seasoning.
- Baking sheet – for laying out the wings to bake evenly.
- Wire rack (optional) – helps to achieve maximum crispiness by allowing air circulation.
- Measuring cups and spoons – for precise ingredient measurements.
- Oven – the key appliance for baking these delicious wings.
Baked Buffalo Chicken Wings: From Prep to Plate
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature is ideal for achieving crispy wings without drying them out.
Step 2: Prepare the Wings
In a large mixing bowl, combine the chicken wings, salt, and pepper. Toss them well to ensure that every wing is seasoned evenly.
Step 3: Arrange on Baking Sheet
If you have a wire rack, place it on top of your baking sheet. This will help air circulate around the wings, making them extra crispy. Arrange the wings in a single layer on the rack or directly on the baking sheet, ensuring they are not touching.
Step 4: Bake the Wings
Bake the wings in your preheated oven for about 40-45 minutes, turning them halfway through. This step is crucial for even cooking and achieving that crispy texture.
Step 5: Prepare the Buffalo Sauce
While the wings are baking, melt the unsalted butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Once melted, add the buffalo wing sauce and stir until well combined. Allow the sauce to simmer for a few minutes to meld the flavors.
Step 6: Toss the Wings
Once the wings are golden and crispy, remove them from the oven. Carefully transfer the hot wings into a large bowl and pour the buffalo sauce over them. Toss them gently until all the wings are evenly coated in the sauce.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Serve your Baked Buffalo Chicken Wings hot with your favorite dipping sauces like ranch or blue cheese dressing, alongside celery and carrot sticks for a perfect game day spread. Enjoy the deliciousness!
Allergy-Friendly Substitutes
- Butter: Substitute with vegan butter or olive oil for a dairy-free option.
- Buffalo Wing Sauce: Look for gluten-free brands if you have gluten sensitivities.
- Chicken Wings: Use drumsticks or even cauliflower for a vegetarian option.
Avoid These Mistakes
- Not drying the wings: Make sure to pat the wings dry with paper towels before seasoning. Excess moisture can prevent them from getting crispy.
- Baking at the wrong temperature: Ensure your oven is fully preheated to 400°F to achieve the desired crispiness.
- Overcrowding the baking sheet: Give your wings enough space to cook evenly; otherwise, they may steam rather than bake.
- Skipping the sauce toss: For maximum flavor, make sure to toss the wings in the sauce right after baking.
Storage & Reheat Guide
Leftover Baked Buffalo Chicken Wings can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the wings on a baking sheet. Bake for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through. This method will help retain their crispy texture.
Ask the Chef
Can I use frozen chicken wings for this recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before seasoning and baking. This will help achieve the best texture.
How can I make these wings spicier?
If you like your wings extra spicy, consider adding some cayenne pepper to the seasoning or using a hotter buffalo sauce. You can also toss the wings in additional hot sauce after baking for an extra kick.
Can I bake these wings without a wire rack?
Absolutely! While a wire rack helps with crispiness, you can still bake the wings directly on a baking sheet. Just be sure to flip them halfway through to ensure even cooking.
What should I serve with Baked Buffalo Chicken Wings?
These wings pair perfectly with classic sides like celery and carrot sticks, as well as dipping sauces like ranch or blue cheese. You can also serve them with some crispy potato wedges or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
Next Up in Your Queue
- Sally’s Baking Addiction – Explore more delicious recipes!
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- Minimalist Baker – Check out simple, delicious dishes for any diet!
Final Bite
Baked Buffalo Chicken Wings are a game changer for your appetizer game. With the perfect balance of spice and crunch, they are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. The best part? You can enjoy the bold flavors without the guilt of deep-frying. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just indulging in a cozy night at home, these wings will undoubtedly become a staple in your recipe repertoire. So gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and get ready to impress your friends and family with this easy and delicious recipe. Happy baking!
Baked Buffalo Chicken Wings
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) for crispy wings.
- Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the chicken wings, salt, and pepper. Toss well to season evenly.
- Step 3: If using a wire rack, place it on top of your baking sheet. Arrange the wings in a single layer.
- Step 4: Bake the wings for about 40-45 minutes, turning halfway through for even cooking.
- Step 5: While the wings are baking, melt the butter in a saucepan and stir in the buffalo sauce.
- Step 6: Once the wings are crispy, toss them in the buffalo sauce until evenly coated.
- Step 7: Serve hot with dipping sauces and enjoy!
Notes
- For extra crispiness, dry the wings thoroughly before seasoning.
- Adjust the spice level by adding cayenne pepper or using a hotter sauce.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days and reheat in the oven.
