Oven-Baked Buffalo Wings

Check out this Oven-Baked Buffalo Wings recipe that is perfect for any occasion, be it game day or a summer cookout. These wings are not only crispy and flavorful but also healthier than their fried counterparts. The combination of a dry rub and zesty Buffalo sauce ensures every bite is packed with taste. Plus, they are easy to prepare and will be a hit with family and friends!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have these delicious wings ready in no time.
• Crispy Texture: Baking the wings on a wire rack ensures they come out crispy without the need for frying.
• Flavor Explosion: The blend of spices in the dry rub combined with the rich Buffalo sauce creates an unforgettable flavor.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy them as an appetizer or pair with sides for a full meal—perfect for any gathering.
• Healthier Alternative: Oven-baking reduces the amount of oil used, making these wings a lighter option compared to traditional frying.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this tasty recipe, gather your tools to make preparation smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Wire rack
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring spoons
• Basting brush

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Provides an even surface for cooking the wings, ensuring they bake uniformly.
• Wire rack: Allows air circulation around the wings, resulting in crispier skin without deep-frying.
• Mixing bowls: Necessary for combining ingredients and tossing the wings with seasoning evenly.

Ingredients

Ingredients:
– 2 pounds chicken wings
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– ½ teaspoon salt
– ¼ teaspoon black pepper
– ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
– ¼ teaspoon onion powder
– ¼ teaspoon paprika
– 1/8 teaspoon cayenne
– ½ teaspoon oregano
– ½ teaspoon thyme
– 1/3 cup Frank’s hot sauce
– 3 tablespoons butter (melted)
– 1 tablespoon honey

How to Make Oven-Baked Buffalo Wings

Step 1: Mix the Seasoning

Combine all dry seasoning ingredients in a bowl. You will need:
1. ½ teaspoon salt
2. ¼ teaspoon black pepper
3. ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
4. ¼ teaspoon onion powder
5. ¼ teaspoon paprika
6. 1/8 teaspoon cayenne
7. ½ teaspoon oregano
8. ½ teaspoon thyme

Set aside after mixing well.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Wings

Wash and pat dry the chicken wings thoroughly. Place them in a large mixing bowl and:
1. Pour in 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
2. Add the mixed seasoning from step one.
3. Toss until every wing is evenly coated.

Step 3: Arrange on Baking Sheet

Place the seasoned chicken wings on a baking sheet fitted with a wire rack to promote even cooking.

Step 4: Bake

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the wings for 45–50 minutes or until they reach an internal temperature of 170°F (77°C), flipping them halfway through cooking.

Step 5: Prepare Buffalo Sauce

In a small bowl, combine:
1. ⅓ cup Frank’s hot sauce
2. 3 tablespoons melted butter
3. 1 tablespoon honey

Mix well until fully blended.

Step 6: Toss Wings in Sauce

Once baked, transfer the wings into a large mixing bowl again. Pour the prepared Buffalo sauce over them and toss until each wing is coated with the spicy goodness.

Step 7: Serve

Serve your Oven-Baked Buffalo Wings hot alongside Ranch dressing and fresh vegetables like celery, carrots, or bell peppers for dipping!

Enjoy your flavorful creation!

How to Serve Oven-Baked Buffalo Wings

Oven-Baked Buffalo Wings are not just a dish; they are an experience! Whether you’re hosting a game day party or a casual gathering, serving these wings with the right accompaniments can elevate your meal.

With Dipping Sauces

• Ranch Dressing – A creamy classic that pairs perfectly with spicy wings.
• Blue Cheese Dressing – For those who love a tangy kick alongside their Buffalo flavor.
• Honey Mustard – Offers a sweet contrast to the heat of the wings.

Fresh Vegetables

• Celery Sticks – Crunchy and refreshing, they help cool down the spice.
• Carrot Sticks – Sweet and crunchy, they add a nice balance to the flavors.
• Bell Peppers – Sliced for an extra crunch and vibrant color on your plate.

On a Platter

• Party Platter – Arrange wings on a large platter with dips and veggies for an eye-catching presentation.
• Buffalo Wing Bar – Set up a DIY station where guests can choose their sauces and toppings.

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How to Perfect Oven-Baked Buffalo Wings

To achieve the best results with your Oven-Baked Buffalo Wings, follow these helpful tips for crispy skin and maximum flavor.

• Use a Wire Rack – Elevate the wings on a wire rack while baking. This allows air to circulate around them, resulting in crispier skin.
• Pat Dry Before Coating – Make sure to thoroughly dry the chicken wings before applying oil and seasoning. This helps achieve that crunchy texture.
• Flip Halfway Through Cooking – Turn the wings over halfway through baking to ensure even cooking and browning on both sides.
• Experiment with Spices – Feel free to adjust the spice levels by adding more cayenne or including additional spices like smoked paprika for extra flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Oven-Baked Buffalo Wings

Complementing your Oven-Baked Buffalo Wings with delicious side dishes can make your meal even more enjoyable. Here are some great options to consider:

1. French Fries – Crispy fries are always a favorite; serve them plain or toss them in garlic for extra flavor.
2. Potato Wedges – Seasoned wedges baked until golden brown provide a hearty accompaniment.
3. Coleslaw – A tangy slaw adds crunch and balances out the richness of the wings.
4. Macaroni and Cheese – Creamy mac and cheese offers comfort food vibes that pair well with spicy dishes.
5. Corn on the Cob – Grilled or boiled corn adds sweetness and is perfect for summer gatherings.
6. Garlic Breadsticks – Soft breadsticks brushed with garlic butter are ideal for soaking up any leftover sauce.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking Oven-Baked Buffalo Wings can be easy, but there are some common mistakes that might ruin your dish. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Skipping the Dry Rub: Not using a dry rub means missing out on flavor. Always season your wings thoroughly before baking.
• Crowding the Baking Sheet: Overcrowding wings can lead to uneven cooking. Make sure to leave space between each wing for proper air circulation.
• Not Preheating the Oven: Failing to preheat can result in wings that are not crispy. Always preheat your oven to 400°F before baking.
• Ignoring Cooking Time: Cooking wings for too long or too short can affect texture. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach 170°F.
• Using Cold Sauce: Pouring cold sauce over hot wings can make them soggy. Warm the sauce slightly before tossing it with the wings.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Oven-Baked Buffalo Wings in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Oven-Baked Buffalo Wings

• Place cooled wings in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Oven-Baked Buffalo Wings

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid sogginess.
• Stovetop: Sauté in a pan over low heat for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally for even heating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen chicken wings for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken wings, but it’s best to thaw them first for even cooking.

How spicy are Oven-Baked Buffalo Wings?

The spice level depends on the amount of cayenne and hot sauce used. You can adjust these ingredients according to your preference.

What should I serve with Oven-Baked Buffalo Wings?

These wings are perfect with Ranch dressing and fresh veggies like celery and carrots.

Can I customize the sauce for my Oven-Baked Buffalo Wings?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different sauces or add more spices to create your desired flavor profile.

How do I make my wings extra crispy?

For extra crispiness, ensure they are completely dry before seasoning and consider broiling them for a few minutes at the end of baking.

Final Thoughts

Oven-Baked Buffalo Wings are a delicious and versatile dish that’s perfect for any gathering. Their combination of spices and tangy sauce makes them irresistible. Don’t hesitate to customize your recipe by adding unique spices or sauces to suit your tastes!