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; 1 teaspoon fine sea salt; 2 teaspoons garlic powder; 1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted); 1/4 cup hot pepper sauce; 1 tablespoon granulated sugar

Buffalo chicken wings are the ultimate game-day snack, a beloved classic that never fails to impress. Whether you’re hosting a big gathering or simply craving something spicy and delicious, this Buffalo Chicken Wings Recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. The wings are crispy, flavorful, and perfectly coated in a spicy sauce that packs a punch. Let’s dive into the details of making these mouthwatering wings that will have everyone coming back for more.

What Makes This Recipe Special

This Buffalo Chicken Wings Recipe stands out for several reasons. First, the wings are baked to perfection, achieving that coveted crispy texture without the need for frying. The use of aluminum-free baking powder is key to achieving that crispiness. Plus, the homemade sauce combines just the right amount of heat and sweetness, making every bite an explosion of flavor. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is easy enough for anyone to master, yet impressive enough to serve at any gathering.

What We’re Using

To create these delectable wings, you’ll need the following ingredients:

3 pounds chicken wings, split and tips removed
1 tablespoon aluminum-free baking powder
1 teaspoon fine sea salt
2 teaspoons garlic powder
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
1/4 cup hot pepper sauce
1 tablespoon granulated sugar

Each ingredient plays a crucial role in enhancing the flavor and texture of the wings, ensuring they are both crispy and flavorful.

Appliances & Accessories

Before you start cooking, make sure you have the following appliances and accessories on hand:

Oven: Essential for baking the wings to achieve that perfect crisp.
Baking Sheet: A large sheet lined with parchment paper will help with easy cleanup.
Wire Rack: Placing the wings on a wire rack allows air to circulate, resulting in even cooking and crispiness.
Mixing Bowl: Use this to combine the ingredients for the wings and sauce.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are key to achieving the best results.

Having the right tools will make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Make Buffalo Chicken Wings Recipe: A Simple Method

Follow these simple steps to create perfect Buffalo chicken wings:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature will help the wings get crispy.

Step 2: Prepare the Wings

In a large mixing bowl, combine the chicken wings, aluminum-free baking powder, fine sea salt, and garlic powder. Toss the wings until they are well coated with the dry ingredients.

Step 3: Arrange on Baking Sheet

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place a wire rack on top. Arrange the coated wings in a single layer on the wire rack. This allows the air to circulate around the wings, helping them crisp up beautifully.

Step 4: Bake the Wings

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the wings for 40-45 minutes, flipping them halfway through. You want them to be golden brown and crispy.

Step 5: Make the Buffalo Sauce

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

Step 6: Toss the Wings in Sauce

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

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the Buffalo chicken wings hot with your favorite dipping sauces, such as ranch or blue cheese, and enjoy the delightful flavors!

Substitutions by Diet

If you’re looking for some substitutions to accommodate different dietary needs, consider the following:

Gluten-Free: Ensure that the hot pepper sauce is gluten-free, as some brands may contain gluten.
Dairy-Free: Substitute the unsalted butter with a dairy-free butter alternative or coconut oil.
Low-Sodium: Use low-sodium hot sauce and reduce the amount of salt used in the recipe.
Spicy Level: Adjust the amount of hot pepper sauce according to your heat preference, or use a milder sauce for less heat.

These substitutions can help tailor the recipe to fit your dietary preferences.

Behind the Recipe

This Buffalo Chicken Wings Recipe is inspired by the classic flavors of Buffalo sauce that originated in Buffalo, New York. The combination of spicy hot sauce and buttery goodness creates a flavor profile that has become a staple in American cuisine. The use of baking powder in this recipe is a game changer as it helps the wings crisp up in the oven, providing that fried texture without the mess of deep frying. This recipe is perfect for any occasion, from game nights to casual get-togethers.

Make-Ahead & Storage

If you want to get a head start on your Buffalo chicken wings, you can prepare them ahead of time:

Make Ahead: You can season the wings and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just be sure to bring them to room temperature before baking.
Storage: Leftover wings can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: To reheat, place the wings on a baking sheet and reheat in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.

This makes it easy to prepare for events or simply enjoy leftovers later on.

Ask & Learn

Can I fry the wings instead of baking them?

Yes, you can fry the wings if you prefer! Fry them in hot oil (around 350°F or 175°C) until they are golden brown and cooked through, about 10-12 minutes, depending on their size.

What hot sauce should I use for the best flavor?

Use your favorite hot sauce! Frank’s RedHot is a classic choice for Buffalo wings, but feel free to experiment with other brands or homemade hot sauces for different flavor profiles.

Can I make these wings in an air fryer?

Absolutely! Air fryers are perfect for making crispy wings. Cook them at 400°F (200°C) for about 25-30 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even cooking.

How can I adjust the spiciness of the wings?

To adjust the heat level, you can reduce the amount of hot pepper sauce used or mix in some mild sauce to balance it out. Additionally, serving with a cooling dip like ranch or blue cheese can help offset the spiciness.

In Closing

This Buffalo Chicken Wings Recipe is not just a dish; it’s an experience! With its crispy texture and a perfect balance of spice and sweetness, it’s sure to delight your taste buds and impress your guests. Whether you’re enjoying them during a big game or hosting a casual gathering, these wings will undoubtedly be a hit. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to savor the incredible flavors of homemade Buffalo chicken wings. Enjoy!