Oven-Baked Buffalo Wings

Check out the best recipe for Oven-Baked Buffalo Wings that are easy to make and packed with flavor! Perfect for game day or summer cookouts, these wings are baked to perfection and tossed in a spicy Buffalo sauce, making them a crowd-pleaser. With a delicious dry rub and a quick preparation time, they are sure to become your go-to appetizer!

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Chicken Wings
• For the Buffalo Sauce
• How to Make Oven-Baked Buffalo Wings
• Step 1: Prepare the Seasoning
• Step 2: Prepare the Wings
• Step 3: Bake the Wings
• Step 4: Make the Buffalo Sauce
• Step 5: Toss Wings in Sauce
• Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
• How to Serve Oven-Baked Buffalo Wings
• Pair with Dipping Sauces
• Add Fresh Vegetables
• Include Some Crunch
• How to Perfect Oven-Baked Buffalo Wings
• Best Side Dishes for Oven-Baked Buffalo Wings
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Oven-Baked Buffalo Wings
• Reheating Oven-Baked Buffalo Wings
• Frequently Asked Questions
• How long do I bake Oven-Baked Buffalo Wings?
• Can I make these wings ahead of time?
• What can I serve with Oven-Baked Buffalo Wings?
• Can I customize the spice level?
• Are these wings healthy?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: No frying is required! Baking wings in the oven allows for a hassle-free cooking experience.
• Flavorful Dry Rub: A mix of spices enhances the chicken’s natural taste, ensuring every bite is full of flavor.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s the Super Bowl or a backyard BBQ, these wings are always a hit.
• Healthier Option: Baking instead of frying reduces the fat content while maintaining crispiness.
• Customizable Heat: Adjust the spice level in the Buffalo sauce to suit your preference for heat.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools for seamless cooking. Having everything ready will make your experience more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Provides a sturdy base for your wings while allowing excess fat to drip away.
• Wire rack: Elevates wings during baking, promoting even cooking and crispy skin all around.
• Mixing bowl: Ideal for tossing wings with oil and seasonings, ensuring even coverage.

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

In one bowl, mix together the seasoning ingredients:
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 this mixture aside for later use.

Step 2: Prepare the Wings

Wash and pat dry the chicken wings thoroughly.
1. Place them in a large mixing bowl.
2. Pour in 1 tablespoon of olive oil and toss until well coated.
3. Add the seasoning mix from Step 1 and ensure each wing is evenly covered.

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 their internal temperature reaches 170°F (77°C).
4. Flip the wings halfway through baking for even crispiness.

Step 4: Make the Buffalo Sauce

While the wings bake, prepare your Buffalo sauce:
1. In a small bowl, combine 1/3 cup of Frank’s hot sauce,
2. Add in 3 tablespoons of melted butter,
3. Finally, stir in 1 tablespoon of honey until well mixed.

Step 5: Toss Wings in Sauce

Once baked, transfer your wings into a large mixing bowl.
1. Pour the prepared Buffalo sauce over them.
2. Toss until each wing is evenly coated in that delicious sauce.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve your Oven-Baked Buffalo Wings with Ranch dressing and an assortment of fresh vegetables like celery sticks, carrots, and bell peppers for dipping.

Now you’re ready to enjoy these scrumptious Oven-Baked Buffalo Wings at any gathering!

How to Serve Oven-Baked Buffalo Wings

Serving Oven-Baked Buffalo Wings is all about enhancing the experience with delicious sides and dips. These flavorful wings pair well with various accompaniments that can satisfy every palate at your gathering.

Pair with Dipping Sauces

• Ranch Dressing: A classic choice that complements the spicy Buffalo sauce perfectly.
• Blue Cheese Dressing: A tangy option that balances the heat and adds creaminess.
• Honey Mustard Sauce: For those who enjoy a sweet twist, this sauce adds a delightful contrast.

Add Fresh Vegetables

• Celery Sticks: Crunchy and refreshing, they help cleanse the palate between bites of spicy wings.
• Carrot Sticks: Sweet and crunchy, carrots provide a great texture contrast to the wings.
• Sliced Peppers: Colorful bell peppers add a sweet crunch and vibrant color to your platter.

Include Some Crunch

• Potato Chips: Great for snacking alongside your wings; they add saltiness and crunch.
• Tortilla Chips: Serve with salsa or guacamole for a fun twist on game day snacks.

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How to Perfect Oven-Baked Buffalo Wings

To make your Oven-Baked Buffalo Wings truly stand out, consider these helpful tips. They will guide you in achieving crispy skin and maximum flavor.

• Preheat Your Oven Properly: Ensure your oven reaches the right temperature before baking for even cooking and crispiness.
• Use a Wire Rack: Elevating the wings on a wire rack allows air circulation, resulting in crispier skin as they bake.
• Pat Dry Before Seasoning: Moisture on the wings can lead to steaming instead of crisping. Pat them dry thoroughly with paper towels.
• Flip Halfway Through Cooking: Turning the wings halfway ensures they cook evenly and develop that perfect golden-brown color on both sides.

Best Side Dishes for Oven-Baked Buffalo Wings

Enhancing your meal with side dishes can elevate the enjoyment of Oven-Baked Buffalo Wings. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Coleslaw: A crunchy salad that adds freshness and balances out the heat from the wings.
2. Macaroni and Cheese: Creamy and cheesy, this comfort food is always a crowd-pleaser next to spicy wings.
3. Cornbread: Sweet cornbread complements the savory flavors of the wings beautifully.
4. Potato Wedges: Crispy wedges seasoned with herbs can be a hearty side that pairs well with chicken.
5. Baked Beans: The sweetness of baked beans offers a nice contrast to spicy buffalo flavors.
6. Loaded Nachos: Tortilla chips topped with cheese, jalapeños, and sour cream make for an indulgent treat alongside wings.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Oven-Baked Buffalo Wings, there are a few common pitfalls that can affect the flavor and texture. Here are some mistakes to avoid.

• Skipping the drying step: Failing to dry the wings properly can result in soggy skin. Always pat the wings dry before seasoning.
• Not using a wire rack: Baking directly on a sheet can lead to uneven cooking. Use a wire rack to allow air circulation for crispy wings.
• Overcrowding the pan: Placing too many wings on one baking sheet prevents them from crisping up. Bake in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking.
• Ignoring internal temperature: Not checking the temperature can lead to undercooked or overcooked wings. Ensure they reach an internal temp of 170°F for safety and flavor.
• Rushing the sauce: Mixing Buffalo sauce too early can result in a less flavorful coating. Toss the wings in sauce immediately after baking for maximum flavor.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Let them cool completely before sealing to avoid moisture buildup.

Freezing Oven-Baked Buffalo Wings

• Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet for 1-2 hours before transferring to a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating Oven-Baked Buffalo Wings

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, flipping halfway through, but expect less crispiness.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, turning frequently for even heating.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do I bake Oven-Baked Buffalo Wings?

Bake your Oven-Baked Buffalo Wings at 400°F for 45-50 minutes or until they reach an internal temperature of 170°F.

Can I make these wings ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare them ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator or even freeze them for later use.

What can I serve with Oven-Baked Buffalo Wings?

Serve with Ranch dressing and fresh vegetables like celery, carrots, and peppers for a delicious pairing.

Can I customize the spice level?

Absolutely! Adjust the cayenne pepper amount or use different hot sauces to tailor your wings’ heat level.

Are these wings healthy?

While they have more calories than some snacks, you control the ingredients and portion sizes, making them a healthier option than fried wings.

Final Thoughts

Oven-Baked Buffalo Wings are not only flavorful but also versatile enough to suit any gathering. Whether it’s game day or a summer cookout, these wings will surely impress your guests. Feel free to customize with different sauces or spices based on your taste preferences!