Baked Buffalo Chicken Wings
If you’re searching for the ultimate crowd-pleaser that satisfies your wing cravings without the hassle of frying, look no further than these Baked Buffalo Chicken Wings. Crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and smothered in tangy buffalo sauce, these wings are perfect for game day, parties, or a cozy night in. With just a handful of ingredients and a simple baking method, you can whip up a batch of wings that will make you the star of any gathering.
Why It Works Every Time
The magic of these Baked Buffalo Chicken Wings lies in the combination of baking and the right preparation techniques. Baking wings allows for a healthier alternative to frying while still achieving that coveted crispiness. The key is in the drying process—patting the wings dry before seasoning ensures they crisp up beautifully in the oven. Moreover, tossing them in a luscious buffalo sauce made with Frank’s is the perfect way to coat them, creating that classic spicy flavor that we all crave.
Ingredient Rundown
To make these Baked Buffalo Chicken Wings, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 pounds chicken wings – Fresh or frozen wings work well, but if using frozen, ensure to thaw them completely before cooking.
- 1 teaspoon salt – Adjust to taste; salt enhances flavor and helps with the crispiness.
- 1 teaspoon pepper – Freshly cracked black pepper adds a nice kick to your wings.
- ¾ cup buffalo wing sauce – Frank’s RedHot is a popular choice for its balance of heat and flavor.
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter – Butter adds richness to the sauce, making it perfectly luscious.
Cook’s Kit
Before you start, gather your kitchen essentials to make the baking process smooth and enjoyable:
- Baking sheet – A rimmed baking sheet is ideal to catch any drippings.
- Wire rack – Placing wings on a rack allows air to circulate, ensuring even cooking and crispiness.
- Mixing bowl – For tossing the wings in seasoning and sauce.
- Meat thermometer – To ensure your wings reach a safe internal temperature.
- Brush – For applying sauce evenly on the wings before serving.
Stepwise Method: Baked Buffalo Chicken Wings
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature is crucial for achieving crispy wings.
Step 2: Prepare the Wings
If your chicken wings are frozen, ensure they are fully thawed. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which will help them crisp up.
Step 3: Season the Wings
In a large mixing bowl, combine the chicken wings with salt and pepper. Toss them until they are evenly coated.
Step 4: Arrange on a Baking Sheet
Place a wire rack on top of your baking sheet and arrange the seasoned wings in a single layer on the rack. This setup allows the fat to drip down and the hot air to circulate around the wings.
Step 5: Bake the Wings
Bake the wings in the preheated oven for about 40-45 minutes, flipping them halfway through. This ensures they cook evenly and develop a nice golden color.
Step 6: 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. Keep it warm on the stove.
Step 7: Toss the Wings in Sauce
Once the wings are done baking, remove them from the oven and transfer them to the mixing bowl. Pour the warm buffalo sauce over the wings and toss until they are fully coated.
Step 8: Serve
Serve your Baked Buffalo Chicken Wings hot, garnished with celery sticks and your favorite dipping sauces like ranch or blue cheese dressing. Enjoy the game-day excitement with every bite!
If You’re Out Of…
- Buffalo wing sauce – You can substitute with a homemade hot sauce mixed with melted butter and a splash of vinegar.
- Unsalted butter – Use ghee or margarine if necessary, but keep in mind the flavor may vary slightly.
- Chicken wings – Chicken drumsticks or thighs can be used as an alternative, just adjust the cooking time.
- Salt and pepper – Seasoning blends like garlic powder or smoked paprika can add a different depth of flavor.
What Could Go Wrong
While this recipe is straightforward, a few things can go awry:
- Wings not crispy: Make sure to pat the wings dry thoroughly and bake them on a wire rack for optimal crispiness.
- Overcooked wings: Keep an eye on your wings as they bake; using a meat thermometer can help prevent this. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Too spicy: If you’re sensitive to heat, adjust the amount of buffalo sauce you use or mix it with a bit of melted butter for a milder flavor.
- Uneven cooking: Ensure the wings are arranged in a single layer with some space between them for even cooking.
Keep-It-Fresh Plan
To maintain the deliciousness of your Baked Buffalo Chicken Wings:
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to restore their crispiness. Alternatively, wings can be frozen in a single layer, then transferred to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw and reheat in the oven.
Ask the Chef
Can I use frozen chicken wings for this recipe?
Yes, frozen chicken wings can be used, but make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before seasoning and baking. This will help achieve the desired crispiness.
How can I make these wings less spicy?
To reduce the heat, you can use less buffalo sauce or mix it with melted butter or ranch dressing to mellow out the flavor without sacrificing the taste.
What’s the best way to know when the wings are done?
The best way to check doneness is by using a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) to ensure they are fully cooked.
Can I make these wings in advance?
Yes, you can bake the wings in advance and then toss them in sauce when you’re ready to serve. Just reheat them in the oven before serving to restore their crispiness.
Similar Recipes
If you love these Baked Buffalo Chicken Wings, you might also enjoy:
Final Bite
These Baked Buffalo Chicken Wings are the ultimate finger food that’s perfect for any occasion. Crispy, spicy, and utterly delicious, they are sure to become a favorite in your household. With simple ingredients and easy preparation steps, you can impress your friends and family without spending hours in the kitchen. So gather your loved ones, whip up a batch of these mouthwatering wings, and enjoy the flavors of your own personal wing night!
The journey to perfecting Baked Buffalo Chicken Wings is just a recipe away. Dive into this culinary adventure and savor every spicy, buttery bite!
Baked Buffalo Chicken Wings
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- If using frozen wings, thaw them completely and pat dry.
- In a mixing bowl, combine chicken wings with salt and pepper. Toss until evenly coated.
- Place a wire rack over a baking sheet and arrange wings in a single layer on the rack.
- Bake wings for about 40-45 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- While wings bake, melt butter in a saucepan, then add buffalo sauce and stir.
- Once wings are done, toss them in the buffalo sauce until well coated.
- Serve hot, garnished with celery sticks and dipping sauces.
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes.
- Wings can be frozen for up to 3 months; thaw before reheating.
