If you’ve ever craved that perfect balance of spicy, tangy, and crunch in your chicken wings without the mess of deep frying, then this Truly Crispy Oven Baked Buffalo Wings Recipe is an absolute game-changer for you. Imagine biting into wings with a satisfyingly crisp skin that holds a generous coating of that iconic buffalo sauce, all baked to perfection in your oven. This recipe transforms ordinary wings into a deliciously addictive snack or meal that’s sure to be the star of any gathering, whether it’s game day, a casual dinner, or just a treat-yourself kind of night.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Keeping it simple is key here, but don’t underestimate the power of each ingredient. Every item plays a vital role in achieving that luscious flavor, perfect crunch, and irresistible buffalo tang that makes this recipe stand out.
- 4 lb / 2kg chicken wings, wingettes & drumettes: Choose fresh wings for the best texture and juiciness.
- 5 teaspoons baking powder: This is your secret weapon for crispiness—be sure it’s baking powder, not baking soda!
- 3/4 teaspoons kosher salt: Kosher salt adds the perfect seasoning without overpowering the wings.
- 4 tbsp (60g) unsalted butter, melted: Butter smoothes out the heat and enriches the sauce.
- 1/2 cup Frank’s Original Red Hot Sauce: The classic buffalo flavor, absolutely essential for that iconic tang.
- 1 tbsp brown sugar: Balances the heat with a subtle hint of sweetness.
- 1/4 tsp kosher salt: For seasoning the sauce just right.
- 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese (use gorgonzola if you like): Adds creamy, pungent contrast to the spicy wings.
- 1/2 cup sour cream: Creaminess with a bit of tang to mellow the buffalo sauce.
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise (preferably whole-egg): Gives your blue cheese dip a luscious texture.
- 1 clove small garlic, minced: Infuses a subtle kick into the dip.
- 1 – 3 tbsp milk: Adjusts the dip’s consistency to your liking.
- 2 tbsp lemon juice: Brightens flavors in the dip with a fresh zing.
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt: Perfects the dip’s seasoning.
- Black pepper: Adds a mild heat and depth to the dip.
- Celery sticks: The crunchy companion that balances the heat and richness.
- Lots of beer: Because wings and beer are a timeless, joyful pairing.
How to Make Truly Crispy Oven Baked Buffalo Wings Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Wings for Crispiness
Start by patting your chicken wings dry with paper towels—this step is absolutely crucial to achieving that crisp skin everyone dreams about. In a large bowl, toss the wings with baking powder and kosher salt. The baking powder helps to draw moisture to the surface and promotes a golden, crispy texture once baked. Do not substitute baking soda here, or the flavor and texture will be off. Let the wings rest for 20-30 minutes on a rack to allow the coating to set.
Step 2: Bake Your Wings to Perfection
Arrange the wings skin side up on a wire rack placed over a foil-lined baking sheet. This keeps the wings elevated, allowing hot air to circulate evenly, which is the magic behind their unbeatable crispiness. Bake the wings in a preheated oven at 250°C (about 475°F) for about 40-45 minutes, flipping them halfway through. This gentle roasting ensures the skin crisps beautifully while the meat stays juicy. Once baked, switch your oven to broil and give the wings a final 5-7 minute blast to enhance that crunchy exterior.
Step 3: Make the Classic Buffalo Sauce
While the wings are baking, melt your unsalted butter gently and mix it with Frank’s Original Red Hot Sauce, brown sugar, and a pinch of salt until you have a smooth, vibrant sauce. The butter softens the heat, while the sugar adds complexity. Once the wings come out piping hot, immediately toss them in this sauce, ensuring every wing is coated with that irresistible, tangy layer. This final step is what brings your Truly Crispy Oven Baked Buffalo Wings Recipe to life!
How to Serve Truly Crispy Oven Baked Buffalo Wings Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes can bring your wings to the next level. Freshly chopped parsley or chives add a pop of color and a hint of freshness that beautifully complements the spicy wings. A sprinkle of extra crumbled blue cheese right on top also intensifies flavor and adds texture contrast.
Side Dishes
When serving, don’t forget the timeless pairing of crunchy celery sticks and a creamy blue cheese or ranch dip. The cold crispness of celery is perfect for cooling down your palate after each spicy bite. For something heartier, consider crispy potato wedges or a fresh coleslaw, which compliments the buffalo sauce’s heat with a refreshing crunch.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress your guests, serve the wings on a rustic wooden board or a colorful platter lined with parchment paper. Add small bowls of dipping sauce and arrange celery sticks creatively around the wings. For a fun twist, try serving with mini sliders buns so everyone can build their own buffalo wing sandwiches!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover wings keep well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Before storing, allow the wings to cool completely to avoid sogginess. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheating is simple and ensures you get that crunch back.
Freezing
If you want to store leftovers longer, freeze the cooked, sauced wings in a single layer on a baking sheet first. Once frozen solid, transfer them to freezer bags or airtight containers and freeze for up to 2 months. This method helps keep wings from sticking together and preserves texture.
Reheating
To reheat and retain that incredible crispiness, preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F). Place the wings on a wire rack over a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes or until piping hot. Avoid microwaving, as it tends to make wings soggy and less appetizing.
FAQs
Can I use baking soda instead of baking powder for this recipe?
No, baking soda will not produce the correct texture and flavor. Baking powder is key to achieving the crisp, golden skin on your wings in this Truly Crispy Oven Baked Buffalo Wings Recipe.
Is it possible to make these wings without the blue cheese dip?
Absolutely! While blue cheese dip is traditional and delicious, ranch dressing or a simple yogurt-based dip works wonderfully if you prefer something milder.
Can this recipe be made spicy or mild?
You can easily adjust the heat level by using less or more hot sauce, or substituting Frank’s Red Hot with a milder sauce. The balance of buttery richness will always keep the wings tasty.
Do I have to separate the wings into wingettes and drumettes?
While the recipe works well with whole wings, separating them helps cook them evenly and increases surface area for crispiness. Either way, the end result will be delicious!
What’s the best way to serve these wings for a party?
For parties, keep the wings warm in a chafing dish or warming tray and provide plenty of dipping sauces, celery sticks, and napkins. The Truly Crispy Oven Baked Buffalo Wings Recipe is always a hit in a buffet setting!
Final Thoughts
I genuinely can’t recommend this Truly Crispy Oven Baked Buffalo Wings Recipe enough. It captures everything that makes buffalo wings irresistible without the fuss or mess of frying. Whether you are a seasoned wing lover or trying to impress friends, this recipe will quickly become your go-to. Grab your celery sticks, pour a cold beer, and get ready to enjoy wings like never before!
Print
Truly Crispy Oven Baked Buffalo Wings Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 70 minutes
- Total Time: 85 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Enjoy perfectly crispy oven-baked buffalo wings with this easy recipe that delivers all the heat and flavor without the mess of frying. Using baking powder and salt, the chicken wings crisp up beautifully in the oven. Tossed in a tangy, spicy buffalo sauce and served with a creamy blue cheese dip and celery sticks, this classic appetizer is perfect for game day or any casual gathering.
Ingredients
Wings
- 4 lb / 2kg chicken wings, wingettes & drumettes
- 5 teaspoons baking powder (NOT baking soda / bi-carb soda)
- 3/4 teaspoons kosher salt / cooking salt (not table salt)
Buffalo Sauce
- 4 tbsp (60g) unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup Frank’s Original Red Hot Sauce
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1/4 tsp kosher salt / cooking salt
Blue Cheese Dip
- 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese (preferably gorgonzola), softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise (preferably whole-egg)
- 1 clove small garlic, minced
- 1 – 3 tbsp milk
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt / cooking salt
- Black pepper to taste
To Serve
- Celery sticks
- Lots of beer!
Instructions
- Prep the wings: Pat the chicken wings dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture for maximum crispiness. In a large bowl, toss the wings thoroughly with the baking powder and kosher salt, ensuring each piece is coated evenly. This mixture helps to create a super crispy skin when baked.
- Bake the wings: Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C). Arrange the wings on a wire rack placed over a baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced out and not touching. Bake for 30 minutes at this low temperature, then increase the oven heat to 425°F (220°C) and bake for an additional 40 minutes until the wings are golden brown and crispy.
- Make the buffalo sauce: While the wings are baking, melt the butter in a saucepan over low heat. Remove from heat and stir in Frank’s Original Red Hot Sauce, brown sugar, and 1/4 tsp kosher salt until well combined. Adjust taste if needed.
- Toss wings in sauce: Once the wings are done baking, transfer them to a large bowl and pour the buffalo sauce over them. Toss vigorously to coat every wing evenly with the spicy sauce. Serve immediately or keep warm.
- Prepare the blue cheese dip: In a separate bowl, combine the softened blue cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, and salt. Mix well and gradually add milk, 1 tablespoon at a time, until the dip reaches your desired consistency. Season with black pepper to taste and chill until needed.
- Serve: Plate the crispy buffalo wings with celery sticks and the blue cheese dip on the side. Enjoy with a cold beer for the perfect appetizer experience.
Notes
- Use baking powder, not baking soda, to achieve crispiness without an off flavor.
- Kosher salt has larger grains and is better suited for coating the wings evenly.
- Frank’s Red Hot is the classic buffalo wing sauce base, but you can substitute your preferred hot sauce if desired.
- For an extra kick, add cayenne pepper to the buffalo sauce.
- The blue cheese dip can be made a day ahead to allow flavors to meld.
