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Crispy Baked Buffalo Wings Recipe for Game Day

Close-up of crispy, saucy buffalo wings piled high on a white plate, ready to eat.

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Make the best crispy baked buffalo wings without deep frying. This easy recipe uses a simple technique to achieve a crunchy exterior coated in classic, buttery hot sauce, perfect for game day or any party appetizer.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 lbs chicken wings, separated into flats and drumettes
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder (aluminum-free preferred)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 1/2 cup Frank’s RedHot Original Cayenne Pepper Sauce (or similar cayenne pepper sauce)
  • 1 teaspoon white vinegar
  • 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large, rimmed baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top of the foil.
  2. Pat the chicken wings completely dry using paper towels. This step is key for crispiness.
  3. In a large bowl, toss the dried wings with baking powder, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
  4. Arrange the wings in a single layer on the wire rack, ensuring there is space between each piece for air circulation.
  5. Bake for 40 to 45 minutes, flipping the wings halfway through the cooking time. The wings should be golden brown and crispy.
  6. While the wings bake, prepare the homemade buffalo sauce. In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
  7. Remove the butter from the heat and whisk in the cayenne pepper sauce, white vinegar, and Worcestershire sauce until smooth.
  8. Once the wings are done baking, transfer them to a large, clean bowl.
  9. Pour the warm buffalo sauce over the crispy wings and toss gently until every piece is fully coated.
  10. Serve the buffalo wings immediately with blue cheese or ranch dressing and celery sticks for the ultimate game day snack.

Notes

  • For extra crispy wings, ensure your baking powder is fresh and that you pat the chicken completely dry before seasoning.
  • If you prefer an air fryer method, cook the seasoned wings at 380°F (195°C) for 20-25 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, before tossing in the sauce.
  • Adjust the amount of hot sauce to control the spice level of your homemade buffalo sauce.

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