There’s nothing quite like the sizzle of chicken wings cooking in the oven, filling my kitchen with an irresistible aroma that draws everyone in. My love for crispy oven-baked Buffalo wings came from a simple desire: to enjoy the delectable flavors of this classic dish without the fuss of deep-frying. One busy weeknight, feeling worn out from juggling chores and work, I craved something satisfying but easy to make.
With just a few ingredients easily found in my pantry, I created a tangy, buttery sauce perfect for coating the wings. The beauty of this recipe lies not only in its simplistic preparation but also in how versatile it is! Paired with a side of crisp carrot sticks and a cooling ranch dip, these wings have become a hit at game days and family gatherings alike.
So, if you’re searching for a crowd-pleasing dish that brings the joy of homemade flavor into your kitchen, look no further. Let’s dive into the mouthwatering world of crispy oven-baked Buffalo wings—your taste buds will thank you!
Why are Crispy Oven-Baked Buffalo Wings a Must-Try?
Irresistibly crispy: These wings achieve a perfect crunch without the guilt of frying.
Flavor explosion: The combination of spicy hot sauce and sweet honey creates a balanced taste that will tantalize your palate.
Easy preparation: Simplify your cooking process with minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, making it perfect for busy nights.
Versatile serving options: Pair them with classic sides like celery sticks or share them as an appetizer at your next gathering.
Crowd pleaser: Everyone loves wings, and this recipe will have both family and friends clamoring for more!
For more delightful options, check out my recipes that harmonize perfectly with these wings.
Crispy Oven-Baked Buffalo Wings Ingredients
For the Wings
• 5.3 lbs chicken wings – Choose fresh wings for the best flavor and texture.
• 2 Tbsp olive oil – Helps achieve that crispy exterior while enhancing flavor.
• 2 tsp paprika – Adds a touch of smokiness and vibrant color.
• 2 tsp onion powder – Provides a savory depth that complements the spices.
• 2 tsp garlic powder – Infuses the wings with a delightful garlicky note.
• 1 tsp black pepper – Adds a subtle kick; adjust to taste for more heat.
• 2 tsp seasoned salt – Enhances overall flavor and balances the spices.
• 1/2 tsp Slap Ya Mama seasoning – A great secret for an extra flavor boost!
• 1/2 tsp pink Himalayan salt – Use this for its unique taste and mineral content.
• 1 tsp white granulated sugar – Helps to balance the heat of the Buffalo sauce.
• 1 Tbsp baking powder (heaping) – Ensures maximum crunch for those crispy oven-baked Buffalo wings!
For the Buffalo Sauce
• 1/2 cup Frank’s hot sauce – The key ingredient for classic Buffalo flavor; feel free to adjust for heat preference.
• 3 Tbsp butter – Adds richness and helps mellow the spice.
• 3 Tbsp honey – Sweetens the sauce, creating a perfect balance with heat.
Now that you have all the ingredients at your fingertips, you’re one step closer to crafting the perfect batch of crispy oven-baked Buffalo wings!
How to Make Crispy Oven-Baked Buffalo Wings
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Preheat: Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F. This high temperature is essential for achieving that golden, crispy skin on your wings.
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Pat Dry: Use a paper towel to pat the chicken wings dry thoroughly. Cut between the joints to separate the flats and drumettes; discard the wing tips to keep things neat.
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Season: In a large bowl, toss the chicken wings with olive oil and all the seasonings, mixing well until every wing is beautifully coated.
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Bake: Arrange the seasoned wings on a baking rack placed over a foil-lined sheet pan. Bake for 25 minutes, flip them, and bake for another 25 minutes until crispy and golden brown.
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Toss in Sauce: While the wings are baking, toss them in the zesty Buffalo sauce. Place them back on the baking rack and into the turned-off warm oven for an additional 5 minutes to let the sauce set perfectly.
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Make the Sauce: In a small saucepan over low heat, bring Frank’s hot sauce to a simmer. Stir in the butter until melted, then add the honey, mixing until well combined.
Optional: Serve with celery sticks and ranch dip for a delightful crunch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Crispy Oven-Baked Buffalo Wings
Fridge: Store leftover wings in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh while preserving that delicious flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the wings in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer-safe bag, where they’ll stay good for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To reheat, bake the wings in a preheated 400°F oven for about 10-15 minutes until hot and crispy. This ensures they retain their signature crunch and flavor.
Thawing: When ready to enjoy your frozen crispy oven-baked Buffalo wings, thaw them in the fridge overnight before reheating for best results.
What to Serve with Crispy Oven-Baked Buffalo Wings?
Elevate your wing night by pairing these delightful bites with perfect companions that will tantalize your taste buds.
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Creamy Coleslaw: This refreshing side contrasts the heat of the wings with its cool, creamy texture, making each bite harmoniously balanced.
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Celery and Carrot Sticks: Crisp, crunchy veggie sticks are a classic companion. They’re perfect for dipping in ranch or blue cheese dressing to cool down the spice.
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Garlic Bread: Toasty garlic bread brings a comforting, buttery flavor that complements the wings beautifully while being easy to whip up.
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Spicy Potato Wedges: Crispy, seasoned potato wedges add an extra crunch and pair excellently with the zesty Buffalo sauce, enhancing the flavor experience.
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Homemade Ranch Dressing: No wing platter is complete without it! Its creaminess cools the heat while adding a rich tang that perfectly complements the wings.
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Beer: A cold lager or a hoppy IPA balances the spicy wings and enhances the overall flavor while keeping the atmosphere lively.
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Chocolate Chip Cookies: End the meal on a sweet note! These warm, gooey cookies provide a delightful contrast to the savory, spicy wings and are always a family favorite.
Crispy Oven-Baked Buffalo Wings Variations
Feel free to put your spin on these incredible wings and make them your own!
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free baking powder and ensure all sauces are certified gluten-free for a safe treat.
- Spicy Honey: Add extra hot sauce and a pinch of cayenne to your honey for a touch of heat.
- Smoky BBQ: Swap half of the Frank’s hot sauce for your favorite smoky BBQ sauce for a unique flavor twist.
- Garlic Parmesan: Toss the wings in garlic butter and parmesan right after baking for a savory delight.
- Lemon Pepper: After tossing in Buffalo sauce, sprinkle with lemon pepper seasoning for a zesty finish.
- Asian-Inspired: Mix soy sauce, honey, and a splash of sesame oil as a marinade before baking for an exotic flavor.
- Dairy-Free: Replace butter with vegan butter or olive oil to cater to dairy-free diets without sacrificing flavor.
- Extra Crispy: Increase the baking time by a few minutes, monitoring closely until you reach your desired crunch levels.
Get ready to delight your family and friends with these creative variations!
Make Ahead Options
These Crispy Oven-Baked Buffalo Wings are a fantastic choice for meal prep, making your busy weeknights a breeze! You can season the wings and coat them in olive oil with all the spices up to 24 hours ahead, storing them covered in the refrigerator. Additionally, the Buffalo sauce can be prepared in advance and kept in the fridge for up to 3 days to intensify the flavors. When you’re ready to serve, simply bake the wings as directed and toss them in the sauce before finishing them in the warmed oven. This approach ensures you have a quick, flavorful dish that is just as delicious as when made fresh!
Expert Tips for Crispy Oven-Baked Buffalo Wings
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Pat Them Dry: Make sure to thoroughly dry the chicken wings before seasoning. This helps achieve that desired crispy texture in your oven-baked Buffalo wings.
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Don’t Skip the Baking Powder: A heaping tablespoon of baking powder is essential. It draws moisture away from the skin, making the wings crunchier.
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Use a Baking Rack: Elevating the wings on a baking rack allows for air circulation, promoting even cooking and maximizing crispiness throughout.
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Let the Sauce Set: After tossing the wings in the Buffalo sauce, placing them back in the warm oven for a few minutes helps the sauce caramelize, enhancing flavor and stickiness.
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Taste & Adjust: Feel free to tweak the heat by adding more hot sauce or sweeten it up with extra honey. Personalizing your Buffalo sauce is half the fun!
Crispy Oven-Baked Buffalo Wings Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best chicken wings?
Absolutely! When choosing chicken wings, look for fresh wings that are plump and moist, without any dark spots or unpleasant odors. If possible, opt for free-range or organic wings—they often have better flavor and texture.
How should I store leftover Buffalo wings?
Very! To keep your crispy oven-baked Buffalo wings fresh, place them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Be sure to let them cool completely before sealing to avoid steam buildup, which can make the wings soggy.
Can I freeze leftover wings?
Absolutely! To freeze your crispy wings, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid—about 1-2 hours. Then, transfer them into a freezer-safe bag, squeezing out as much air as possible. They can last for up to 3 months!
What’s the best way to reheat frozen Buffalo wings?
Of course! To reheat, simply preheat your oven to 400°F and place the frozen wings on a baking pan. Bake for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through and crispy. This method helps maintain that delightful crunch!
Can I adjust the recipe for dietary restrictions?
Definitely! If you have allergies or dietary considerations, you can use gluten-free baking powder and hot sauce. Additionally, you can replace butter with a vegan alternative for a dairy-free option. Feel free to customize the spices too; perhaps even go for a milder blend if needed!
What if my wings don’t get crispy?
No worries! If your wings turn out less crispy than you’d like, there are a few tricks. Make sure they are thoroughly dried before seasoning, as moisture can lead to sogginess. Additionally, ensure you’re using a baking rack to promote air circulation, or consider broiling them for a few extra minutes at the end to boost that crunch factor!
Crispy Oven-Baked Buffalo Wings That Will Wow Your Guests
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 425°F.
- Use a paper towel to pat the chicken wings dry thoroughly and cut between the joints to separate the flats and drumettes.
- In a large bowl, toss the chicken wings with olive oil and all the seasonings, mixing well.
- Arrange the seasoned wings on a baking rack placed over a foil-lined sheet pan. Bake for 25 minutes, flip them, and bake for another 25 minutes.
- While the wings are baking, toss them in the zesty Buffalo sauce. Place them back on the baking rack in the turned-off warm oven for an additional 5 minutes.
- In a small saucepan over low heat, bring Frank's hot sauce to a simmer, stir in butter until melted, then add honey.