Name: Buffalo Chicken Wings Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 3 pounds chicken wings (split and tips removed); 1 tablespoon aluminum-free baking powder (helps achieve perfect crispiness); 1 teaspoon fine sea salt (enhances flavor); 2 teaspoons garlic powder (adds savory depth); 1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted); 1/4 cup hot pepper sauce (for Buffalo flavor); 1 tablespoon granulated sugar (balances heat and adds sweetness)

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Crispy, spicy, and utterly addictive, Buffalo chicken wings are a beloved classic that never goes out of style. Perfect for game day, parties, or a cozy night in, these wings pack a punch of flavor and require just a few simple ingredients to create a mouthwatering dish that will impress your friends and family. Whether you prefer them extra saucy or with a side of creamy ranch, this Buffalo chicken wings recipe is sure to be a hit.

What You’ll Love About This Recipe

Easy to make with simple ingredients.
Perfectly crispy texture without frying.
Customizable heat levels to suit your taste.
Great for sharing at parties or enjoying solo.
Makes a fantastic appetizer or main course.

What We’re Using

3 pounds chicken wings – Split and tips removed for easy eating.
1 tablespoon aluminum-free baking powder – Helps achieve that perfect crispiness.
1 teaspoon fine sea salt – Enhances the flavor of the wings.
2 teaspoons garlic powder – Adds a savory depth to the wings.
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted – Richness to balance the heat.
1/4 cup hot pepper sauce – The classic ingredient for that signature Buffalo flavor.
1 tablespoon granulated sugar – Balances the heat and adds a hint of sweetness.

Appliances & Accessories

Oven – For baking the wings to crispy perfection.
Mixing bowl – For combining the seasoning and sauce.
Baking sheet – To hold the wings while they cook.
Cooling rack – Optional, but helps air circulate around the wings for extra crispiness.
Measuring cups and spoons – For accurate ingredient measurements.

Build Buffalo Chicken Wings Recipe Step by Step

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature will help achieve that coveted crispy texture.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Wings

Rinse the chicken wings under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Removing excess moisture is key to achieving crispy wings.

Step 3: Season the Wings

In a large mixing bowl, combine the baking powder, sea salt, and garlic powder. Add the chicken wings to the bowl and toss until they are evenly coated with the seasoning mixture.

Step 4: Arrange on Baking Sheet

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place a cooling rack on top. Arrange the seasoned wings in a single layer on the rack, ensuring they are not touching each other. This allows hot air to circulate around the wings for even cooking.

Step 5: Bake the Wings

Bake the wings in the preheated oven for about 40-45 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy.

Step 6: Prepare the Buffalo Sauce

While the wings are baking, prepare the Buffalo sauce. In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter, hot pepper sauce, and granulated sugar until well combined.

Step 7: Toss the Wings in Sauce

Once the wings are done baking, remove them from the oven and transfer them to a large mixing bowl. Pour the Buffalo sauce over the wings and toss to coat evenly.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the Buffalo chicken wings immediately with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ranch or blue cheese, and enjoy the explosion of flavors!

Dietary Customizations

For a gluten-free option, ensure that the hot pepper sauce is gluten-free.
Use vegan butter to make the wings dairy-free.
For a lower-sodium option, adjust the salt to taste or use a salt substitute.
Try different hot sauces to vary the heat level and flavor profile.

Mistakes That Ruin Buffalo Chicken Wings Recipe

Not drying the wings properly can lead to soggy skin.
Using too much sauce can make the wings soggy instead of crispy.
Baking at a lower temperature will result in less crispy wings.
Overcrowding the baking sheet will prevent even cooking and crisping.

Refrigerate, Freeze, Reheat

Leftover Buffalo chicken wings can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the wings in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag once frozen. They can be kept in the freezer for up to 2 months. To reheat, bake the wings in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through and crispy.

Reader Questions

Can I make these wings ahead of time?

Yes! You can bake the wings ahead of time and toss them in the sauce when you’re ready to serve. Just reheat them in the oven to maintain their crispiness.

What type of hot sauce should I use for Buffalo wings?

The classic choice for Buffalo sauce is Frank’s RedHot, but you can use any hot pepper sauce that you prefer. Just adjust the amount based on your heat preference.

How can I make these wings spicier?

To increase the heat, you can add more hot sauce or include a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the sauce mixture.

Can I bake these wings without a cooling rack?

While a cooling rack is ideal for air circulation, you can bake them directly on the baking sheet. Just be sure to flip them halfway through cooking for even crispiness.

See You at the Table

Buffalo chicken wings are a timeless favorite that brings people together. Whether you’re hosting a game day gathering or simply enjoying a night in, this Buffalo chicken wings recipe is sure to steal the show. With the perfect balance of heat and flavor, paired with that crispy texture, you’ll be reaching for seconds—if not thirds! Gather your friends, grab some napkins, and get ready to dig into these delightfully spicy wings that are sure to tantalize your taste buds. Enjoy every bite!