Crispy Oven-Baked Buffalo Wings: The Ultimate Game Day Treat

There is nothing quite like a platter of tangy, spicy buffalo wings to bring excitement to a weekend gathering or a casual weeknight dinner. While many believe that deep-frying is the only way to achieve that signature crunch, this oven-baked method delivers a perfectly golden, crispy skin that will have everyone reaching for seconds.

Recipe Details

• Yields: 4 servings
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 60 minutes

Ingredients

• 2 lbs chicken wings, split and tips removed
• 1 tablespoon baking powder (aluminum-free)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 cup hot sauce (Frank’s RedHot or similar)
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon white vinegar
• 1/4 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

Instructions

1. Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with aluminum foil and placing a wire cooling rack securely on top.
2. Use paper towels to pat the chicken wings thoroughly until they are completely dry, which is a vital step for achieving a crispy texture.
3. In a large mixing bowl, toss the wings with the baking powder, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika, ensuring each piece is evenly coated in the seasoning.
4. Arrange the seasoned wings in a single layer across the wire rack, making sure the skin side is facing upward.
5. Bake the wings for 40–45 minutes. To ensure even cooking, flip the wings over halfway through the baking time until they are a beautiful golden brown.
6. While the chicken is in the oven, place a small saucepan over low heat and melt the unsalted butter.
7. Whisk the hot sauce, white vinegar, and Worcestershire sauce into the melted butter until the mixture is smooth and combined. Keep this sauce warm until needed.
8. Once the wings are finished baking, carefully move them into a large, clean bowl.
9. Pour the warm buffalo sauce over the crispy wings and toss them gently until every wing is fully submerged in the flavorful sauce.
10. Serve the wings immediately while hot, ideally with crunchy celery sticks and a side of blue cheese or ranch dressing for dipping.

Tips for Success

If you have a little extra time and want a superior crunch, let the raw wings sit uncovered in the refrigerator for 2 to 4 hours to air-dry before you start the recipe. Additionally, the spiciness of the dish is easy to customize; feel free to increase the hot sauce for more heat or dial it back if you prefer a milder snack.

Nutrition Information

Gather your friends and family around the table and enjoy these classic, flavorful wings that are sure to be a hit at any occasion.