Baked Buffalo Chicken Wings

There’s something undeniably delicious about a plate of perfectly baked buffalo chicken wings. Crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and coated in a tangy, spicy sauce, these wings are the ultimate comfort food and the perfect party snack. Whether you’re hosting a game day gathering or simply craving a tasty treat, this recipe for Baked Buffalo Chicken Wings will satisfy your taste buds and impress your guests. Plus, they’re baked instead of fried, making them a bit healthier without sacrificing flavor. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe!

What You’ll Love About This Recipe

You’ll love how easy it is to make these Baked Buffalo Chicken Wings right in your own kitchen. Here are a few reasons why this recipe stands out:

• Crispy Perfection: You won’t believe they’re baked! These wings come out crispy and golden brown.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of buttery buffalo sauce creates a mouthwatering flavor that’s irresistible.
• Simple Ingredients: With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a batch that everyone will love.
• Easy Cleanup: Baking these wings in the oven means less mess than frying, making cleanup a breeze.

The Ingredient Lineup

To make these delicious Baked Buffalo Chicken Wings, gather the following ingredients:

• 2 pounds chicken wings: Fresh or frozen, just ensure they are thawed if using frozen.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Adjust to taste for seasoning.
• 1 teaspoon pepper: Freshly ground is best for flavor.
• 1 cup buffalo wing sauce: I used Frank’s RedHot for the perfect kick.
• 4 tablespoons butter: Unsalted, to keep the flavor balanced.

Hardware & Gadgets

Before you get started, make sure you have the following tools at your disposal:

• Baking sheet: A large one lined with aluminum foil makes for easy cleanup.
• Wire rack: This elevates the wings, allowing heat to circulate for maximum crispiness.
• Bowl: For mixing the sauce and tossing the wings.
• Meat thermometer: Optional, but great for ensuring your wings are cooked to perfection.

Baked Buffalo Chicken Wings — Do This Next

Now that you have everything ready, let’s walk through the steps to create your Baked Buffalo Chicken Wings.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high temperature is key for achieving that crispy skin.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Wings

If your chicken wings are whole, separate them into drumettes and flats. Pat them dry thoroughly with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This step is essential for crispiness.

Step 3: Season the Wings

In a large bowl, combine the chicken wings with salt and pepper. Toss them well to ensure an even coating.

Step 4: Arrange on the Baking Sheet

Place a wire rack inside your lined baking sheet. Arrange the seasoned wings in a single layer on the rack. This allows air to circulate around the wings for even cooking.

Step 5: Bake the Wings

Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, flipping them halfway through to ensure they cook evenly. You want them golden brown and crispy!

Step 6: Prepare the Buffalo Sauce

While the wings are baking, melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Once melted, stir in the buffalo wing sauce, mixing well to combine.

Step 7: Toss the Wings in Sauce

Once the wings are done baking, remove them from the oven and place them in a large bowl. Pour the buffalo sauce mixture over the wings, tossing them until they are well coated.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!

Transfer the sauced wings back to the baking sheet and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes. This step helps set the sauce. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces!

Swap Guide

Feel free to customize this recipe with these swaps:

• Different Sauces: Try different wing sauces like teriyaki or barbecue for a unique flavor.
• Spice Level: Add more heat by including cayenne pepper or using a spicier wing sauce.
• Butter Alternatives: Use olive oil or a vegan butter substitute for a different twist.
• Gluten-Free Option: Ensure your wing sauce is gluten-free if needed.

Avoid These Mistakes

To ensure your Baked Buffalo Chicken Wings come out perfect every time, avoid these common pitfalls:

• Not Drying the Wings: Moisture is the enemy of crispiness. Always pat your wings dry before seasoning.
• Crowding the Pan: For the best results, do not overcrowd the baking sheet. Space them out to allow for even cooking.
• Skipping the Rack: Baking on a wire rack allows airflow for crispier wings. Don’t skip this step!
• Underestimating Cooking Time: Ensure your wings are cooked through (165°F internal temperature) before serving.

Freezer-Friendly Notes

If you want to enjoy Baked Buffalo Chicken Wings later, here are some tips for freezing:

• Cooked wings can be frozen for up to 3 months. Make sure they are cooled completely before freezing.
• Place the wings in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen, then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag.
• To reheat, bake from frozen at 400°F for about 25-30 minutes until heated through and crispy.

Reader Q&A

Can I make these wings in an air fryer?

Absolutely! You can cook these wings in an air fryer at 375°F for about 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through for even cooking.

What dipping sauces pair well with buffalo wings?

Classic options include blue cheese dressing, ranch dressing, or even celery and carrot sticks to balance the heat.

Can I use frozen wings for this recipe?

Yes, just ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry before seasoning and baking for the best results.

How can I make the wings extra crispy?

Make sure to dry the wings thoroughly and consider baking them for an extra 5-10 minutes at the end to crisp them up even more.

If you enjoyed these Baked Buffalo Chicken Wings, you might also love these recipes:

Time to Try It

Now that you have all the tips and tricks, it’s time to get your kitchen ready for some delicious Baked Buffalo Chicken Wings. Grab your ingredients, call your friends, and prepare to enjoy a fantastic meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table. With their crispy texture and spicy flavor, these wings are bound to be a hit. So what are you waiting for? Let’s get cooking!