Oven-Baked Buffalo Wings

Check out the best recipe for Oven-Baked Buffalo Wings that will elevate your next gathering! These wings are a perfect blend of crispy skin and spicy flavor, making them ideal for game day parties or summer cookouts. With a simple dry rub and a luscious Buffalo sauce, these wings will impress your guests and satisfy your cravings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy Texture: The oven-baking method ensures that you get that crispy skin without frying.
• Flavor Explosion: Each wing is seasoned with a dry rub and tossed in zesty Buffalo sauce for maximum flavor.
• Easy to Make: With just a few steps, you can whip up this crowd-pleaser in less than an hour.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve these wings with various dips and veggies to cater to all taste preferences.
• Healthier Choice: Baking instead of frying makes these wings a lighter option while maintaining great taste.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your kitchen tools. Having everything ready will make the preparation smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Wire rack
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring spoons
• Whisk or fork

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: A sturdy baking sheet allows even cooking and easy cleanup.
• Wire rack: Elevates the wings for better airflow, ensuring they become crispy all around.
• Mixing bowls: Necessary for combining ingredients without spilling.
• Measuring spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for achieving the perfect flavor balance.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Wings

• 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

For the Buffalo Sauce

• 1/3 cup Frank’s hot sauce
• 3 tablespoons butter (melted)
• 1 tablespoon honey

How to Make Oven-Baked Buffalo Wings

Step 1: Prepare the Seasoning

1. Mix the seasoning ingredients in one bowl:
2. ½ tsp salt
3. ¼ tsp black pepper
4. ¼ tsp garlic powder
5. ¼ tsp onion powder
6. ¼ tsp paprika
7. 1/8 tsp cayenne
8. ½ tsp oregano
9. ½ tsp thyme.
10. Set aside the mixture.

Step 2: Coat the Wings

1. Wash and pat dry the chicken wings thoroughly.
2. Place them in a large mixing bowl.
3. Pour 1 tablespoon of olive oil over the wings and mix well.
4. Add the seasoning mixture to the bowl and toss until every wing is evenly coated.

Step 3: Bake the Wings

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Arrange the seasoned wings on a baking sheet fitted with a wire rack.
3. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until they reach an internal temperature of 170°F, flipping them halfway through cooking time.

Step 4: Make the Buffalo Sauce

1. In a separate bowl, whisk together:
2. 1/3 cup Frank’s hot sauce,
3. 3 tablespoons melted butter,
4. 1 tablespoon honey.

Step 5: Coat with Sauce and Serve

1. Once baked, transfer the cooked wings to a large mixing bowl.
2. Pour the Buffalo sauce over them and toss gently until each wing is fully coated.
3. Serve immediately with Ranch dressing and fresh vegetables like celery, carrots, or bell peppers.

Now you have delicious Oven-Baked Buffalo Wings ready to impress your guests! Enjoy every bite at your next event!

How to Serve Oven-Baked Buffalo Wings

Oven-baked Buffalo wings are perfect for any gathering, from game day to summer cookouts. Here are some delicious ways to serve them that will please your guests.

Classic Pairings

• Ranch Dressing: A creamy and tangy dip that complements the spicy wings perfectly.
• Celery Sticks: Crunchy and refreshing, they help balance the heat of the Buffalo sauce.
• Carrot Sticks: Sweet and crisp, these add a colorful touch to your serving platter.

Fun Serving Ideas

• Buffalo Wing Platter: Arrange wings with various sauces on the side for guests to choose from.
• Slider Buns: Create mini sandwiches by placing wings inside slider buns with extra sauce and toppings.
• Salad Bowls: Toss wings on a bed of greens for a fun twist on a salad.

Party Favorites

• Veggie Tray: Include an assortment of vegetables for dipping alongside your spicy wings.
• Cheese Platter: Offer a selection of cheeses to complement the flavors of the wings.

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How to Perfect Oven-Baked Buffalo Wings

Achieving crispy, flavorful oven-baked Buffalo wings is easy with a few handy techniques. Here are some tips to ensure your wings turn out perfectly every time.

• Dry the Wings Thoroughly: Patting the wings dry helps them crisp up in the oven.
• Use a Wire Rack: Elevating the wings allows hot air to circulate around them, promoting even cooking and crispiness.
• Season Generously: Don’t skimp on the seasoning; it adds depth to the flavor of your wings.
• Flip Halfway Through Cooking: Turning the wings during baking ensures both sides get crispy and golden brown.
• Broil for Extra Crispiness: For an extra crunch, broil the wings for a few minutes after baking.
• Let Them Rest Before Serving: Allowing the wings to rest briefly after tossing in sauce lets flavors meld beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Oven-Baked Buffalo Wings

Pairing your oven-baked Buffalo wings with tasty side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options that complement their bold flavors.

1. Coleslaw: A crunchy slaw provides a cool contrast to spicy wings. You can make it creamy or vinegar-based based on preference.
2. French Fries: Crispy fries are always a favorite and perfect for dipping in leftover sauce or ranch dressing.
3. Potato Wedges: Seasoned potato wedges add heartiness and pair well with wing sauces.
4. Onion Rings: Crispy onion rings offer a savory crunch that matches well with chicken flavors.
5. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread balances out spiciness while adding a comforting touch to your meal.
6. Macaroni Salad: Creamy macaroni salad works as a satisfying side dish that complements spicy food perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Oven-Baked Buffalo Wings, a few common mistakes can affect the final result. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the Dry Rub: Not using a dry rub can lead to bland wings. Always season your wings thoroughly for maximum flavor.
• Not Preheating the Oven: Failing to preheat your oven can result in uneven cooking. Make sure your oven is at 400°F before placing your wings inside.
• Crowding the Baking Sheet: Overcrowding prevents proper air circulation, making wings soggy. Arrange them in a single layer with space in between for crispiness.
• Ignoring Internal Temperature: Cooking without checking the temperature may lead to undercooked or overcooked wings. Ensure they reach an internal temperature of 170°F.
• Tossing Wings in Sauce Too Early: Adding sauce while wings are still hot but not fully cooked can cause them to become soggy. Wait until they are perfectly cooked and crispy.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Oven-Baked Buffalo Wings in an airtight container.
• They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Oven-Baked Buffalo Wings

• Place cooled wings in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• They will stay fresh for up to 3 months when frozen.

Reheating Oven-Baked Buffalo Wings

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F, place wings on a baking sheet, and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place wings on a microwave-safe plate and cover them. Heat for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add wings, turning occasionally until warmed through and slightly crispy.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Oven-Baked Buffalo Wings crispy?

To achieve crispy Oven-Baked Buffalo Wings, ensure they are well-dried before seasoning and use a wire rack while baking.

Can I use frozen chicken wings?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken wings. Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking for even results.

What sauces work well with Buffalo wings?

While hot sauce is traditional, you can experiment with BBQ sauce or garlic parmesan for different flavor profiles.

How spicy are these Oven-Baked Buffalo Wings?

The spice level depends on how much cayenne you add. You can adjust it according to your taste preference.

Can I prepare these wings ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the wings and store them in the fridge before baking them just before serving.

Final Thoughts

Oven-Baked Buffalo Wings are not only delicious but also versatile enough for various occasions. Whether it’s game day or a summer barbecue, this recipe is sure to impress. Feel free to customize the heat level or toss them with different sauces to suit your taste!