Buffalo Wings – Spicy Crispy Classic

Buffalo Wings deliver the perfect balance of crispy skin, juicy chicken, and bold, tangy sauce. Whether for game day, a party, or a casual dinner, these homemade wings outperform takeout and let you control the heat and flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy exterior with tender, juicy meat
• Bold, spicy flavor balanced with butter and vinegar
• Easy to make in the oven or air fryer
• Perfect for parties, game day, or family dinners
• Customize the spice level to taste

Ingredients

• 2 pounds chicken wings, split and tips removed
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

Buffalo Sauce

• 1/2 cup hot sauce
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon white vinegar
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)

Optional for Serving

• Celery sticks
• Carrot sticks
• Ranch or blue cheese dressing

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with foil.
2. Pat wings dry with paper towels. Toss with olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
3. Arrange wings in a single layer on the baking sheet.
4. Bake for 40–45 minutes, flipping halfway through, until skin is crispy and chicken is cooked through.
5. While wings bake, combine hot sauce, melted butter, vinegar, and cayenne in a bowl to make the Buffalo sauce.
6. Remove wings from the oven and toss immediately in the Buffalo sauce until evenly coated.
7. Serve hot with celery, carrot sticks, and ranch or blue cheese dressing.

Tips & Variations

• Use an air fryer for extra-crispy wings in less time
• Adjust cayenne pepper to control spiciness
• Broil wings 2–3 minutes at the end for extra crisp
• Add honey to the sauce for a sweet-spicy variation
• Use chicken drumettes or flats interchangeably

Storage & Freezer Instructions

• Store cooked wings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
• Reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes for best crispiness
• Store Buffalo sauce separately if making ahead
• Do not freeze wings after sauce coating for best texture
• Serve freshly tossed for optimal flavor

Serving & Pairing Ideas

• Serve with celery and carrot sticks for a classic pairing
• Offer ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping
• Pair with lemonade, or iced tea
• Serve alongside French fries or onion rings
• Garnish with chopped parsley for color

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make wings crispy without deep frying?

Yes. Baking at high heat or using an air fryer creates crispy skin without deep frying.

How spicy are Buffalo Wings?

Spice depends on the hot sauce and cayenne added. Adjust to taste for mild or fiery wings.

Can I prepare Buffalo Wings ahead of time?

Yes. Bake wings ahead, store uncoated in the fridge, and toss in sauce just before serving.

Can I freeze Buffalo Wings?

You can freeze cooked plain wings, but toss them in sauce after reheating to maintain crispiness.

Ready to Make It?

Buffalo Wings are a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make at home. Crispy, spicy, and juicy, they’re perfect for game day, parties, or family dinners. Save this recipe so you always have a go-to for a classic bar-style favorite.

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