Baked Buffalo Wings

Introduction

Baked Buffalo Wings are a healthier, yet equally delicious alternative to traditional fried wings. These wings are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and coated in a tangy, spicy buffalo sauce that will have you reaching for more. The best part is that they’re baked in the oven, reducing the fat and mess that come with frying.

I first made these when I wanted to enjoy buffalo wings without all the grease, and they quickly became a favorite. The crispy texture paired with the bold, spicy flavor of the buffalo sauce is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making them for game day, a party, or just a casual snack, they’re always a hit. You can also customize the spice level to suit your preferences, making them as mild or hot as you like.

What’s great about these Baked Buffalo Wings is that they’re incredibly easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients and a little time in the oven, you can enjoy wings that are just as satisfying as the fried version, but without all the guilt. Perfect for sharing or enjoying on your own, these wings are sure to be a crowd-pleaser every time!

Perfect for:

• Game day snacks
• Casual dinners
• Parties and gatherings
• Comfort food cravings
• Spicy food lovers

Why You’ll Love This Baked Buffalo Wings

Here’s why Baked Buffalo Wings will become your go-to wing recipe:

• Crispy without Frying: These wings are baked in the oven, achieving that crispy, golden texture without the need for frying.
• Tangy and Spicy: The homemade buffalo sauce is the perfect balance of heat and flavor, with a little kick that’s not overpowering.
• Easy to Make: With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, these wings are a simple and delicious snack or meal.
• Healthier Option: Baking the wings instead of frying reduces the amount of oil and calories, making them a lighter choice.
• Customizable: Adjust the level of spice by adding more or less hot sauce, or switch up the seasoning for your ideal flavor.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings (about 12 wings)
• Calories per serving: Approximately 250-300 calories (for 3 wings)
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 20g, Carbs: 1g, Fat: 18g

Ingredients

To make your Baked Buffalo Wings, gather the following ingredients:

• 12 chicken wings (drumettes and flats)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• ½ cup buffalo sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (optional, for extra richness)
• Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
• Celery and carrot sticks (optional, for serving)
• Blue cheese or ranch dressing (optional, for dipping)

Ingredient Highlights

• Chicken Wings: Bone-in wings are traditional for this recipe, providing that perfect combination of crispy skin and tender meat.
• Buffalo Sauce: The sauce is what makes buffalo wings special. You can use store-bought buffalo sauce or make your own from hot sauce and butter.
• Olive Oil: A light coating of olive oil helps achieve a crisp texture on the wings without frying.
• Butter: Adding butter to the buffalo sauce adds a creamy, rich finish that balances out the heat from the hot sauce.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make your Baked Buffalo Wings:

Prep the Wings:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray to prevent the wings from sticking.
2. Prep the Wings: Pat the chicken wings dry with paper towels. This helps the skin get crispy during baking. Place the wings in a large bowl.
3. Season the Wings: Drizzle the olive oil over the wings and sprinkle with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper. Toss the wings until evenly coated.

Bake the Wings:

4. Arrange the Wings: Place the wings in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Ensure the wings are not overcrowded, as this will prevent them from getting crispy.
5. Bake the Wings: Bake the wings in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, flipping them halfway through. The wings should be golden brown and crispy on the outside, and the internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).

Coat with Buffalo Sauce:

6. Prepare the Sauce: While the wings are baking, melt the butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Once melted, stir in the buffalo sauce and mix until well combined. Remove from heat.
7. Toss the Wings: Once the wings are done baking, remove them from the oven. Transfer the wings to a large bowl, pour the buffalo sauce over them, and toss until fully coated.

Serve:

8. Garnish and Serve: Arrange the buffalo wings on a serving platter. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve with celery and carrot sticks. Offer blue cheese or ranch dressing on the side for dipping.

How to Serve Baked Buffalo Wings

Baked Buffalo Wings are perfect for a variety of occasions:

• As a Snack or Appetizer: Serve them as a savory appetizer at parties, gatherings, or game day events.
• With Veggies and Dips: Pair them with classic sides like celery and carrots, along with your favorite dipping sauces such as blue cheese or ranch.
• Main Course: Serve the wings with a side of fries, a green salad, or a baked potato for a satisfying meal.
• For Parties: These wings are perfect for large gatherings, especially if served with a variety of sauces to cater to different tastes.

Additional Tips for Baked Buffalo Wings

Here are some tips to ensure your Baked Buffalo Wings turn out perfectly:

• Pat the Wings Dry: To get crispy skin, make sure the wings are patted dry before seasoning.
• Use a Wire Rack: If you have a wire rack, place it on top of the baking sheet and arrange the wings on the rack. This allows air to circulate around the wings and helps them crisp up even more.
• Check for Doneness: Ensure the wings are fully cooked by checking that the internal temperature has reached 165°F (75°C). Use a meat thermometer to be sure.
• Adjust Spice Level: If you prefer your wings spicier, you can add extra hot sauce to the buffalo sauce, or use a hotter variety of hot sauce.
• Keep Warm: If you’re making a large batch of wings, keep them warm in the oven at 200°F (90°C) until ready to serve.

Recipe Variations for Baked Buffalo Wings

Here are 10 variations you can try for Baked Buffalo Wings:

• Lemon Pepper Buffalo Wings: After tossing the wings in buffalo sauce, sprinkle with lemon pepper seasoning for a citrusy twist.
• Garlic Parmesan Buffalo Wings: Toss the wings in a garlic butter sauce and top with grated Parmesan cheese for a rich, savory version.
• Honey Buffalo Wings: Add honey to the buffalo sauce for a sweet and spicy flavor combination.
• BBQ Buffalo Wings: Mix buffalo sauce with BBQ sauce for a tangy and smoky flavor profile.
• Cajun Buffalo Wings: Season the wings with Cajun spices before baking for an extra layer of flavor.
• Baked Teriyaki Buffalo Wings: Add a splash of teriyaki sauce to the buffalo sauce for a sweet, Asian-inspired twist.
• Buffalo Ranch Wings: Mix ranch seasoning into the buffalo sauce for a creamy, zesty coating.
• Spicy Honey Mustard Wings: Combine honey mustard with buffalo sauce for a tangy and spicy sauce that balances well with the wings.
• Buffalo Blue Cheese Wings: Add crumbled blue cheese to the buffalo sauce for an extra burst of flavor.
• Baked Veggie Buffalo Wings: Try using cauliflower or other veggies in place of chicken wings for a vegetarian version of this dish.

Freezing and Storage for Baked Buffalo Wings

• Freezing: You can freeze cooked and coated wings. Place them on a baking sheet and freeze until firm, then transfer them to a zip-top bag. Bake from frozen at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes.
• Storage: Leftover baked buffalo wings can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes to restore their crispiness.

Special Equipment for Baked Buffalo Wings

Here are some tools that will make preparing Baked Buffalo Wings easier:

• Baking Sheet: A large baking sheet is essential for baking the wings evenly.
• Wire Rack (Optional): A wire rack helps the wings crisp up on all sides by allowing air to circulate underneath them.
• Meat Thermometer: A meat thermometer ensures your wings are cooked to the proper temperature.
• Mixing Bowl: Use a large bowl to toss the wings in olive oil and seasonings, as well as to coat them in buffalo sauce.
• Tongs: Use tongs to flip the wings halfway through baking without disturbing the skin.

Frequently Asked Questions for Baked Buffalo Wings

1. Can I make these wings spicier?
   Yes, you can increase the heat by adding more hot sauce to the buffalo sauce or using a spicier hot sauce variety.
2. Can I use boneless wings?
   Yes, boneless chicken breasts or tenders can be used instead of bone-in wings. Adjust the baking time as boneless wings will cook faster.
3. Can I bake the wings without oil?
   While oil helps achieve a crispy texture, you can skip the oil if you’re aiming for a lighter version, but the wings may not be as crispy.
4. Can I make these wings ahead of time?
   Yes, you can bake the wings ahead of time, then store them in the fridge. Reheat them in the oven to restore their crispiness before serving.
5. Can I use a different sauce?
   Absolutely! You can experiment with other sauces, such as BBQ sauce, teriyaki, or a honey mustard glaze, for a different flavor profile.

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Conclusion

Baked Buffalo Wings are the perfect combination of crispy, flavorful, and spicy, without the mess of frying. The baked method keeps the wings lighter while still delivering that irresistible buffalo sauce flavor. Whether for a casual dinner, game day, or a party, these wings are sure to impress. Enjoy them with your favorite dipping sauces and sides for a satisfying meal everyone will love!

This recipe is as easy to make as it is delicious, making it a great choice for everything from relaxed weeknight dinners to fun gatherings with friends. Whether you’re hosting a game day bash or just craving a flavorful snack, these baked buffalo wings are the perfect addition to any occasion.

I’d love to see how your Baked Buffalo Wings turn out! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and don’t forget to tag me—I can’t wait to see your delicious creations. Happy cooking!