Crispy Baked Chicken Wings with Spicy Buffalo Sauce

These Crispy Baked Chicken Wings with Spicy Buffalo Sauce are the ultimate combination of crispy, flavorful, and spicy. Oven-baked to perfection, these wings have a crispy exterior without the mess of frying. Tossed in a zesty buffalo sauce, they’re perfect for game days, parties, or anytime you crave a delicious, spicy snack.

Ingredients

For the Wings:

• 10-12 chicken wings, tips removed and split into flats and drumettes

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 1/2 tsp garlic powder

• 1/2 tsp onion powder

• 1/2 tsp paprika

• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Spicy Buffalo Sauce:

• 1/2 cup hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)

• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

• 1 tbsp white vinegar

• 1/2 tsp garlic powder

• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)

• Salt to taste

Preparation Steps

1. Prepare the Chicken Wings

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Pat the chicken wings dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps them become crispy when baked. Place the wings in a large bowl and toss with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.

2. Bake the Wings

Place the wings on a baking rack set on top of a baking sheet (this allows air circulation around the wings for even cooking). Arrange the wings in a single layer, ensuring they aren’t overlapping. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the wings are golden and crispy.

3. Prepare the Buffalo Sauce

While the wings are baking, prepare the buffalo sauce. In a small saucepan, combine the hot sauce, melted butter, white vinegar, garlic powder, cayenne pepper (if using), and a pinch of salt. Heat the mixture over low heat until the butter has melted and the sauce is well combined. Stir occasionally.

4. Toss the Wings in Sauce

Once the wings are baked and crispy, remove them from the oven and place them in a large bowl. Pour the hot buffalo sauce over the wings and toss gently to coat each wing in the sauce.

5. Serve

Serve the crispy buffalo wings immediately, garnished with chopped parsley or celery sticks if desired. These wings are perfect with a side of ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping.

Expert Tips

• Crispy Wings: Patting the wings dry before cooking helps them get crispier. You can also bake them on a wire rack to ensure the heat circulates around the wings, making them extra crispy.

• Adjusting the Spice: If you prefer less heat, reduce the amount of cayenne pepper or choose a milder hot sauce. For extra heat, add more hot sauce or cayenne pepper to the buffalo sauce.

• Make It Gluten-Free: Ensure your hot sauce and seasonings are gluten-free to keep this recipe gluten-free.

Why This Dish Works

Crispy Baked Chicken Wings with Spicy Buffalo Sauce offer the perfect combination of crunch and flavor. The oven-baking method gives you the crispiness of fried wings without the oil and mess. The spicy buffalo sauce adds a kick, making these wings a satisfying snack or appetizer.

Conclusion

These Crispy Baked Chicken Wings with Spicy Buffalo Sauce are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a game day party or craving a spicy, crunchy snack. With their crispy texture and flavorful buffalo sauce, these wings are sure to be a crowd-pleaser!