Baked Buffalo Chicken Wings

There’s something undeniably satisfying about biting into perfectly crispy, spicy Baked Buffalo Chicken Wings. Whether you’re hosting a game day party, enjoying a casual weekend gathering, or just craving a delicious snack, these wings are sure to impress. With just a handful of ingredients and a straightforward baking method, you can create this classic appetizer right in your own kitchen.

These Baked Buffalo Chicken Wings are coated in a tangy buffalo sauce that’s balanced with creamy butter, making them a flavor-packed treat. The best part? Baking them allows for a healthier twist on the traditional fried wings without sacrificing any of that mouthwatering taste. So, let’s dive in and discover how to make the best Baked Buffalo Chicken Wings that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Why It’s Crowd-Pleasing

Baked Buffalo Chicken Wings are a favorite for many reasons. First and foremost, they deliver that classic spicy kick that wing lovers adore. The crunchiness from baking gives them a texture that’s just as satisfying as frying but with less oil and fuss. They are versatile, too; serve them with a side of cooling ranch or blue cheese dressing, celery sticks, or just on their own for an irresistible snack. Perfect for parties, casual dinners, or even movie nights, these wings are sure to be a hit with friends and family alike.

Gather These Ingredients

To make Baked Buffalo Chicken Wings, you will need the following ingredients:

• 2 pounds of 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

These ingredients are easy to find and combine to create a flavor explosion that will keep your taste buds dancing!

Appliances & Accessories

To prepare your Baked Buffalo Chicken Wings, gather these kitchen essentials:

• Baking Sheet: A large baking sheet lined with parchment paper will help catch any drippings and make cleanup a breeze.
• Wire Rack: Placing your wings on a wire rack allows for even cooking and crispiness.
• Cooking Brush: You’ll need this to evenly coat the wings with buffalo sauce.
• Mixing Bowl: A large bowl is essential for tossing your wings in the seasoning.

With these tools on hand, you’re ready to create the perfect batch of wings!

Baked Buffalo Chicken Wings — Do This Next

Follow these simple steps to bake your delicious Buffalo Chicken Wings:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature is key to achieving that crispy skin we all love.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Wings

In a large mixing bowl, add the chicken wings. Sprinkle with salt and pepper, tossing to ensure the wings are well-coated.

Step 3: Arrange on Baking Sheet

Place a wire rack on top of a baking sheet and arrange the wings in a single layer on the rack. This will allow hot air to circulate around the wings, helping them to cook evenly and become crispy.

Step 4: Bake the Wings

Bake the wings in the preheated oven for about 40-45 minutes, turning them halfway through. Look for a golden brown color and crispy edges.

Step 5: Prepare the Buffalo Sauce

While the wings are baking, melt the unsalted butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Once melted, stir in the buffalo wing sauce until well combined.

Step 6: Toss Wings in Sauce

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

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!

Transfer the sauced wings back to the wire rack and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes to caramelize the sauce. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces and enjoy the savory goodness of your Baked Buffalo Chicken Wings!

Tailor It to Your Diet

Looking to make adjustments? Here are a few ways to customize your Baked Buffalo Chicken Wings:

• Gluten-Free: Ensure that your buffalo sauce is gluten-free, as some brands may contain gluten.
• Low-Carb: Serve with celery sticks instead of bread or chips to keep it lower in carbs.
• Spicier: For an extra kick, add cayenne pepper or increase the amount of buffalo sauce used.
• Healthier Option: Opt for skinless chicken wings to reduce fat content while still enjoying the flavor.

Feel free to experiment and make these wings your own!

Little Things that Matter

The small details can make a big difference in your wing-making experience. Here are some tips to enhance your Baked Buffalo Chicken Wings:

• For extra crispy wings, pat them dry with paper towels before seasoning. This helps remove excess moisture.
• Let your wings marinate in the salt and pepper for 30 minutes for deeper flavor.
• Use both drumettes and flats for a variety of textures and shapes.
• Consider adding garlic powder or onion powder to the seasoning for added depth of flavor.

These little tweaks can elevate your wings to the next level!

Make Ahead Like a Pro

Planning ahead? Here are some tips for making your Baked Buffalo Chicken Wings in advance:

• Marinate the Wings: Season the wings and let them marinate in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.
• Freeze for Later: You can freeze raw, seasoned wings for up to three months. Just thaw them in the fridge before baking.
• Reheat: Leftover wings can be reheated in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until crispy.

With these tips, you can have your wings ready when you need them!

Reader Q&A

Can I use frozen chicken wings for this recipe?

Yes! Just make sure to thaw them completely before seasoning and baking for best results.

Is there a way to make these wings less spicy?

Absolutely! You can mix the buffalo sauce with a bit of butter or opt for a milder wing sauce to tone down the heat.

How can I make these wings extra crispy?

For extra crispiness, you can broil the wings for a few minutes after baking, but keep a close eye to prevent burning.

What dipping sauces pair well with buffalo wings?

Ranch and blue cheese dressings are classic choices, but honey mustard and a creamy garlic dip are also great options!

Keep Cooking

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

• Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders
• Sweet and Spicy BBQ Ribs
• Zesty Lemon Garlic Shrimp
• Classic Caesar Salad with Grilled Chicken

Explore these recipes and keep your cooking adventures going!

Final Bite

Baked Buffalo Chicken Wings are more than just a snack; they’re a celebration of flavor and a beloved staple for gatherings. With their crispy texture and spicy, buttery sauce, they are sure to be a hit at any occasion. So grab those ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to impress your friends and family with your homemade Baked Buffalo Chicken Wings. Enjoy every delicious bite!