Name: Baked Buffalo Chicken Wings
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 2 pounds chicken wings; 1 teaspoon salt ((or to taste)); 1 teaspoon pepper ((or to taste)); ½ cup buffalo wing sauce ((I used Frank’s)); 4 tablespoons butter ((unsalted))

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Whenever I think about a perfect game day snack, the first thing that comes to mind is Baked Buffalo Chicken Wings. There’s just something magical about biting into a crispy wing coated in that spicy, tangy sauce. Picture this: a gathering of friends munching on these delectable treats while cheering for their favorite team. It brings a sense of camaraderie and excitement that’s hard to beat. I remember the first time I made them; the aroma filled the kitchen, and I couldn’t wait to dig in. The combination of flavors is simply irresistible and makes them a hit at parties or quiet nights in. Each batch is a masterpiece, and as I pull them from the oven, I know I’ve created something special.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
50 mins

Prep Time:
5 mins

Cook Time:
45 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
350 kcal

Protein:
30 g

Diet:
Keto, Paleo, Whole30

Fat:
25 g

Tools Used:
Large Baking Sheet

The Appeal of This Baked Buffalo Chicken Wings

They’re Easy to Make

One of the best things about Baked Buffalo Chicken Wings is how straightforward they are to prepare. You don’t need any culinary expertise—just follow the simple steps, and you’re good to go. The mouthwatering flavor comes together with just a handful of ingredients, which makes this recipe a breeze.

Perfectly Crispy Texture

Let’s talk about that crunch! When baked correctly, these wings achieve the perfect crispy exterior without the need for frying. It’s all about the technique—by patting them dry and baking them on a wire rack, you elevate the texture to a whole new level.

Flavor Explosion

The star of the show, of course, is the buffalo sauce. Combining heat and flavor, it coats the wings perfectly. You can customize the spice level to your liking, whether you prefer a mild kick or something that’ll set your taste buds on fire. The butter adds richness that balances the heat beautifully.

Versatile for Any Occasion

Whether you’re hosting a Super Bowl party or a cozy movie night, Baked Buffalo Chicken Wings fit the bill. They can be the main event or a delightful appetizer that gets everyone excited about what’s next. Plus, they pair so well with a variety of sides, making them incredibly versatile.

A Crowd Pleaser

There’s a reason why these wings are a classic. Their universal appeal means everyone loves them—kids, adults, and everyone in between. They’re perfect for sharing, which encourages conversation and enjoyment around the dining table.

Healthy Option

Lastly, baking these wings instead of frying them cuts down on excess oil, making them a healthier choice. You can indulge in that delicious taste without the guilt. It’s all about enjoying the flavors you love while keeping it a bit lighter.

Main Ingredients for Baked Buffalo Chicken Wings

The ingredients in Baked Buffalo Chicken Wings are simple yet effective. Each plays a critical role in bringing the wings to life. The chicken wings are the canvas, while the buffalo wing sauce is the vibrant paint that adds flavor. The butter helps lock in moisture and enhances the overall taste, making every bite a delight. The salt and pepper balance the sauce, ensuring it’s not too overpowering while enriching the natural flavors of the chicken.

2 pounds chicken wings: The star of the dish, these juicy wings are perfect for soaking in flavor.
1 teaspoon salt (or to taste): This helps elevate the natural taste of the chicken.
1 teaspoon pepper (or to taste): Adds a bit of warmth and depth to the flavor.
½ cup buffalo wing sauce: This is where the magic happens, bringing that iconic spicy taste.
4 tablespoons butter (unsalted): Adds richness and helps to meld the flavors together.

Preparation Steps for Baked Buffalo Chicken Wings

Getting started with Baked Buffalo Chicken Wings is an exciting adventure. You’ll be amazed at how simple it is to create this crowd-pleaser! Just follow these steps closely, and you’ll have wings that are not only delicious but also perfectly crispy.

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. This step is crucial as it helps prevent the wings from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
Pat the chicken wings dry with paper towels. This is an important step; moisture can hinder crispiness. You want these wings to be as dry as possible to achieve that delightful crunch!
Season the wings with salt and pepper. I like to use about a teaspoon of each, but feel free to adjust according to your taste preferences.
Place the seasoned wings on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer, ensuring they’re not overcrowded. This allows them to bake evenly and get crispy all around.
Transfer the baking sheet to the oven and bake the wings for 40 to 45 minutes. About halfway through, flip the wings to ensure they cook evenly. You’re aiming for a golden brown and crispy exterior.
While the wings are baking, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. This will give your sauce a rich, smooth texture.
Stir in the buffalo wing sauce until well combined. You can adjust the sauce according to your spice preference—add more or less to taste.
Once the wings are done, remove them from the oven and toss them in the buffalo sauce until they’re evenly coated. The heat from the wings will help absorb the flavor.
For serving, feel free to offer blue cheese dressing on the side. It balances the heat of the wings perfectly!

Things Worth Knowing

Drying the Chicken: Make sure to pat the wings dry thoroughly before seasoning. This helps achieve maximum crispiness.
Flipping the Wings: Flipping the wings halfway through baking ensures they cook evenly and become crispy on all sides.
Adjusting Spice Levels: If you prefer a milder flavor, you can add more butter to the sauce. For extra heat, consider adding more buffalo wing sauce or a splash of your favorite hot sauce.
Reheating: To reheat leftover wings, bake them in the oven at 400°F for about 10 to 15 minutes. This helps regain their crispiness.

Tips for Success

When making Baked Buffalo Chicken Wings, there are a few tips that can take your wings to the next level. Here’s how to ensure success every time!

Storage: Store any leftover wings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Freezing: You can freeze the cooked wings. Just let them cool completely, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They will last for about two months.
Pairing: These wings go wonderfully with celery sticks and a creamy blue cheese dressing. It adds a refreshing contrast to the spicy wings.
Serving Size: Plan on serving about 4 to 6 wings per person, especially if they are the main dish at your gathering.
Experimenting: Feel free to experiment with different sauces. You could try a honey garlic or teriyaki sauce for a twist on the classic!

What Complements This Baked Buffalo Chicken Wings

Celery and Carrots: Serve with fresh veggies like celery and carrots for a crunchy, refreshing side.
Blue Cheese Dressing: A classic pairing, blue cheese dressing adds a creamy element that perfectly balances the heat of the wings.
Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges are a hearty complement that everyone loves alongside wings.
Beer and Soda: These wings are great with a chilled beer or soda, offering a refreshing contrast to the spicy flavor.
Game Day Gatherings: Perfect for Super Bowl parties or any game day, they’ll be the highlight of your snack table.
Barbecues and Picnics: These wings are also a hit at outdoor gatherings!

FAQ

Yes, you can certainly prepare the wings ahead of time! Just follow the recipe until the baking step, then store the raw wings in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to cook them, simply bake as directed. This is a great way to save time if you’re hosting a gathering.

Leftover Baked Buffalo Chicken Wings can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just make sure they’re cooled completely before sealing them to maintain their texture. You can also freeze them for longer storage—just thaw and reheat in the oven for the best results.

Absolutely! If you’re using frozen chicken wings, it’s best to thaw them in the refrigerator overnight for even cooking. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly, as frozen wings typically require a bit longer in the oven.

These wings pair wonderfully with a variety of sides! Consider serving them with celery sticks, carrot sticks, and a creamy blue cheese dressing for dipping. You might also want to add some crispy potato wedges or a refreshing salad to round out your meal.

Conclusion

The beauty of Baked Buffalo Chicken Wings lies in their simplicity and flavor. They bring joy to any gathering, and the satisfaction of creating them is unmatched. I encourage you to try this recipe; it’s sure to become a favorite. Gather your friends, fire up your oven, and indulge in these crispy, flavorful wings tonight!