Buffalo Wings Recipe: The Ultimate Guide to Spicy, Crispy Perfection
Craving that perfect bite of spicy, crispy chicken wings? Look no further. This Buffalo Wings Recipe is everything you need to bring the bold, tangy flavor of restaurant-style buffalo wings straight to your kitchen. Whether you’re prepping for game night, hosting a party, or just treating yourself, these wings are guaranteed to be a hit.
What Are Buffalo Wings Recipe?
Buffalo wings are deep-fried or baked chicken wings coated in a spicy, buttery hot sauce. Originating in Buffalo, New York, these wings are a staple in American cuisine, especially popular during sports events and gatherings. What sets buffalo wings apart is their signature sauce—a mix of cayenne pepper hot sauce and melted butter.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s everything you need to create the perfect batch of buffalo wings:
For the Chicken Wings:
- 2 lbs chicken wings, split at the joint and tips removed
- 1 tablespoon baking powder (aluminum-free)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
For the Buffalo Sauce:
- ½ cup hot sauce (Frank’s RedHot is a classic choice)
- ¼ cup unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
How to Make Buffalo Wings Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Wings
Start by patting the chicken wings dry with paper towels. This is a crucial step to get that crispy texture. Then, in a large bowl, toss the wings with baking powder, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder until evenly coated.
Step 2: Bake or Air-Fry
You can either bake or air-fry the wings. Both methods produce excellent results.
To Bake:
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Place the wings on a wire rack over a baking sheet lined with foil.
- Bake for 40–45 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
To Air-Fry:
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Place wings in a single layer.
- Air-fry for 25–30 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
Step 3: Make the Buffalo Sauce
While the wings cook, melt butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir in hot sauce, vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and cayenne. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until fully combined and slightly thickened.
Step 4: Toss & Serve
Once the wings are crispy, transfer them to a large bowl. Pour the buffalo sauce over the wings and toss until evenly coated. Serve immediately with celery sticks and a side of ranch or blue cheese dressing.
Tips for the Best Buffalo Wings
- Dry thoroughly: The drier the wings, the crispier the result.
- Baking powder is key: It reacts with the skin to create that perfect crunch.
- Toss at the end: Don’t bake the wings in sauce—coat them after cooking to keep them crispy.
- Control the heat: Adjust the cayenne or choose a milder hot sauce if needed.
Serving Suggestions
Buffalo wings are best served hot and fresh. They pair perfectly with:
- Celery and carrot sticks
- Ranch or blue cheese dressing
- Cold beer or soda
They’re ideal as an appetizer, party snack, or even as a main dish when served with fries or coleslaw.
Storing & Reheating
Leftover wings? No problem.
- Store: Keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Use the oven or air fryer to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving, which can make them soggy.
FAQ: Buffalo Wings Recipe
Can I make buffalo wings ahead of time?
Yes! Bake the wings ahead, store in the fridge, and reheat in the oven or air fryer before tossing in the sauce.
Are buffalo wings keto-friendly?
Yes, if you skip sugary sauces and avoid breading, buffalo wings can be low in carbs and keto-friendly.
What’s the difference between buffalo wings and regular wings?
Buffalo wings are specifically coated in a vinegar-based cayenne pepper hot sauce and butter mix, which gives them their iconic spicy flavor.
