If you're a fan of spicy, tangy, and crispy chicken wings, this Buffalo Chicken Wings recipe is a must-try. It’s perfect for game day, parties, or just a fun family dinner. With simple ingredients and a straightforward process, you'll have a crowd-pleaser on your hands in no time.
The star of the show is, of course, the chicken wings. Fresh wings give the best texture and flavor, but frozen can work if you ensure they’re thoroughly thawed. The flour forms the base of our coating, helping to achieve a crispy texture in the oven. Garlic powder and onion powder add depth and savory notes. A dash of cayenne pepper brings a bit of heat, but feel free to adjust this to your liking. Salt and black pepper are essential for seasoning. For that classic Buffalo sauce, you’ll need hot sauce — I recommend Frank's RedHot for its perfect balance of flavor and heat. Unsalted butter provides richness, while white vinegar adds a tangy kick. Finally, a splash of Worcestershire sauce rounds out the flavors.
Buffalo Chicken Wings are traditionally served with crisp celery sticks and a creamy blue cheese or ranch dressing for dipping. They pair wonderfully with a cold beer or a refreshing lemonade. For a party, consider serving them alongside other finger foods like sliders or nachos.
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with foil for easy cleanup, then place a wire rack on top to allow the wings to cook evenly and get crispy on all sides.
In a large bowl, combine the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. This will be your coating mix. Pat the chicken wings dry with paper towels to ensure the coating sticks well. Toss them in the flour mixture until they're fully coated.
Place the coated wings on the wire rack in a single layer. Bake them in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, flipping them halfway through to ensure even cooking. You’re looking for a nice golden brown color and a crispy texture.
While the wings bake, prepare your sauce. In a saucepan over low heat, combine the hot sauce, butter, vinegar, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir gently until the butter melts and the ingredients are well mixed. Keep the sauce warm until the wings are done.
Once the wings are cooked, transfer them to a large bowl. Pour the warm sauce over the wings and toss them until they're evenly coated. Serve immediately to enjoy them at their crispiest.