Indulge in the ultimate buffalo wings recipe that brings together the perfect balance of heat and flavor. These crispy, spicy wings are a favorite for gatherings, game days, or a cozy night in. With a simple preparation and cooking process, you can impress your friends and family with this classic dish. Let’s dive into the ingredients and get cooking!
Ingredients
– 2 pounds chicken wings
– 1/2 cup hot sauce (like Frank’s RedHot)
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 1 tablespoon white vinegar
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Celery sticks (for serving)
– Blue cheese dressing (for dipping)
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes approximately 4 servings. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, with a cooking time of 40 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (5 wings) contains approximately 400 calories, 28g fat, 30g protein, and 2g carbohydrates. This nutritional information is based on one serving for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse and pat dry the chicken wings with paper towels.
3. In a large bowl, toss the wings with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
4. Arrange the wings in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 30 minutes, flipping halfway through for even cooking.
6. While wings are baking, melt the butter in a saucepan over low heat.
7. Stir in the hot sauce, white vinegar, and cayenne pepper. Mix well.
8. Remove the wings from the oven and transfer them to a large bowl.
9. Pour the sauce over the wings and toss to coat evenly.
10. Return the coated wings to the oven for an additional 10 minutes for extra crispiness.
Alternative Ingredients
If you prefer a milder flavor, you can substitute the hot sauce with a milder wing sauce or use a blend of half hot sauce and half barbecue sauce. Additionally, you can use olive oil instead of butter for a healthier option.
Serving and Pairings
Buffalo wings pair perfectly with crunchy celery sticks and creamy blue cheese dressing. You can also serve them alongside carrot sticks or with a refreshing salad to balance the heat.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftover buffalo wings in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. You can also freeze the wings for up to 2 months; thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
- Not drying the wings before baking, leading to soggy skin.
- Baking at too low a temperature, which prevents crispiness.
- Overcrowding the baking sheet, causing uneven cooking.
- Skipping the tossing step with sauce, resulting in uneven flavor.
- Using the wrong type of hot sauce, affecting the flavor balance.
- Not letting the wings rest before serving, which can retain moisture.
- Serving without accompaniments like celery or dressing.
Helpful Tips
- Use fresh wings for the best texture and flavor.
- Adjust the spice level by varying the amount of cayenne pepper.
- For extra crunch, consider frying the wings instead of baking.
- Let the wings sit for a few minutes after baking before tossing in sauce.
- Experiment with different sauces for unique flavors.
FAQs
Can I make buffalo wings in an air fryer?
Yes, buffalo wings can be made in an air fryer. Cook them at 360°F (180°C) for about 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crispiness. Toss them in sauce after cooking.
What can I serve with buffalo wings?
Buffalo wings are best served with celery sticks, carrot sticks, and blue cheese dressing. You can also pair them with beer for a classic combination.
How can I make buffalo wings healthier?
To make buffalo wings healthier, consider baking or air-frying instead of frying. Use skinless chicken wings or reduce the amount of butter in the sauce for fewer calories.
Can I use frozen chicken wings?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken wings. Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
What’s the best hot sauce for buffalo wings?
Frank’s RedHot is widely regarded as the best hot sauce for buffalo wings due to its perfect flavor profile. However, you can experiment with other brands to find your favorite.
Conclusion
Buffalo wings are a classic dish that never fails to impress. With their perfect blend of heat and flavor, they are sure to be a hit at your next gathering. Follow this recipe for delicious, crispy wings that will have everyone coming back for more!
Buffalo Wings Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 pounds chicken wings
- 1/2 cup hot sauce
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Celery sticks for serving
- Blue cheese dressing for dipping
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Rinse and pat dry the chicken wings with paper towels.
- In a large bowl, toss the wings with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Arrange the wings in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 30 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- While wings are baking, melt the butter in a saucepan over low heat.
- Stir in the hot sauce, white vinegar, and cayenne pepper.
- Remove wings from the oven and transfer them to a large bowl.
- Pour the sauce over the wings and toss to coat.
- Return the coated wings to the oven for an additional 10 minutes.