Buffalo Baked Chicken Wings

These Buffalo baked chicken wings boast incredibly crispy skin and juicy meat, all coated in a classic tangy and spicy Buffalo sauce. They are the perfect game-day snack or party appetizer that's easier to make than deep-frying.

Buffalo Baked Chicken Wings
  • Prep time: 13 minutes
  • Cook time: 32 minutes
  • Total time: 45 minutes
  • Servings: 4
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Cuisine: American

Ingredients

  • 2 lbs chicken wingettes and drumettes, patted very dry
  • 1 tbsp baking powder (aluminum-free)
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 cup Frank's RedHot Original Hot Sauce
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 tsp garlic powder

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with foil and place an oven-safe wire rack on top. Spray the rack lightly with cooking spray.
  2. In a large bowl, toss the very dry chicken wings with baking powder, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
  3. Arrange the wings in a single layer on the prepared wire rack, ensuring there's space between each wing for air circulation.
  4. Bake for 45-55 minutes, flipping halfway through, until wings are golden brown and crispy. For extra crispiness, you can increase the heat to 425°F (220°C) for the last 10 minutes.
  5. While wings are baking, prepare the Buffalo sauce: In a medium bowl, whisk together Frank's RedHot sauce, melted butter, and garlic powder until well combined.
  6. Once wings are done, transfer them to a large bowl. Pour the Buffalo sauce over the hot wings and toss to coat thoroughly.
  7. Serve immediately with blue cheese dressing and celery sticks.

Tips

  • Patting the chicken wings extremely dry is crucial for achieving crispy skin.
  • Using baking powder (not baking soda) helps to draw moisture out of the skin and creates a crispier exterior.
  • Toss the wings in the Buffalo sauce immediately after they come out of the oven for the best coating and flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these in an air fryer?

Yes, air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes, shaking the basket every 10 minutes, until crispy and cooked through. Then toss with sauce.

How can I adjust the spice level of the Buffalo sauce?

For milder wings, reduce the amount of hot sauce and increase the butter. For spicier wings, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or use a spicier hot sauce.

What's the best way to store and reheat leftover wings?

Store cooled wings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in an oven or air fryer at 350°F (175°C) until crispy and heated through.