If you’re looking for a finger-licking good snack or appetizer that packs a punch, look no further than these Hot & Spicy Baked Buffalo Chicken Wings. Perfectly crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, these wings are coated in a spicy, tangy sauce that will have you reaching for more. Whether you’re hosting a game day party or simply craving something delicious, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser. Let’s dive into how to make these mouthwatering wings!
Why This Recipe Works
There are countless recipes for buffalo chicken wings out there, but this one stands out because it balances flavors beautifully. The combination of hot sauce and brown sugar creates a sweet and spicy glaze that elevates the humble chicken wing to new heights. Baking instead of frying makes this dish not only healthier but also easier to prepare. With just a few simple steps, you’ll be enjoying crispy, flavorful wings in no time.
The Ingredient Lineup
To whip up these Hot & Spicy Baked Buffalo Chicken Wings, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 pounds chicken wings, cut – The star of the show!
- 1 cup chicken broth or water – For moisture during baking.
- 3/4 cup hot sauce – Use your favorite brand for that perfect kick.
- 1/4 cup brown sugar or honey – Adds sweetness to balance the heat.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter – For richness in the sauce.
- 1 tablespoon paprika – Adds depth of flavor and a beautiful color.
- 1/4 teaspoon EACH garlic powder, salt, black pepper – Essential seasonings to enhance the taste.
- Cooking spray – To prevent sticking on the baking sheet.
Equipment Breakdown
Before you get started, gather your kitchen tools. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Baking sheet – A large one to accommodate all the wings.
- Cooling rack – Helps to achieve maximum crispiness.
- Mixing bowl – For combining your sauce ingredients.
- Measuring cups and spoons – Accurate measurements are key.
- Cooking spray – For easy cleanup and to keep wings from sticking.
From Start to Finish: Hot & Spicy Baked Buffalo Chicken Wings
Now that you have everything ready, let’s get cooking!
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for baking those wings to perfection.
Step 2: Prepare the Baking Sheet
Line your baking sheet with aluminum foil and place a cooling rack on top. Spray the cooling rack with cooking spray to ensure the wings don’t stick.
Step 3: Dry the Chicken Wings
Pat the chicken wings dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for achieving a crispy texture.
Step 4: Season the Wings
In a large mixing bowl, toss the wings with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
Step 5: Arrange the Wings
Place the seasoned wings in a single layer on the cooling rack. This allows hot air to circulate around the wings for even cooking.
Step 6: Bake the Wings
Bake the wings for 40-45 minutes, flipping them halfway through until they are golden brown and crispy.
Step 7: Make the Sauce
While the wings are baking, combine the hot sauce, chicken broth or water, brown sugar or honey, and unsalted butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves and the sauce is heated through.
Step 8: Toss in the Sauce
Once the wings are done, transfer them to a large bowl and pour the sauce over them. Toss until the wings are well coated.
Step 9: Serve!
Serve the wings hot with your favorite dipping sauces and veggies. Enjoy your Hot & Spicy Baked Buffalo Chicken Wings!
Make It Fit Your Plan
If you want to customize your Hot & Spicy Baked Buffalo Chicken Wings to fit your dietary preferences, consider the following options:
- Use gluten-free hot sauce if you’re following a gluten-free diet.
- For a lower-carb option, substitute honey or brown sugar with a low-carb sweetener.
- Add more spices like cayenne pepper for an extra kick!
- Pair with celery sticks and carrot sticks for a fresh crunch.
Avoid These Traps
When making your Hot & Spicy Baked Buffalo Chicken Wings, keep these pitfalls in mind:
- Skipping the drying step: Moist wings will steam instead of crisping up.
- Overcrowding the baking sheet: Ensure wings are spread out for even cooking.
- Not flipping the wings: This can lead to uneven cooking and less crispiness.
- Using too much sauce before baking: Save the sauce for after the wings are cooked for the best texture.
How to Store & Reheat
Once you’ve enjoyed your Hot & Spicy Baked Buffalo Chicken Wings, here’s how to store and reheat any leftovers:
Store leftover wings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place wings on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy again. You can also use an air fryer for a quick reheating option!
Quick Q&A
Can I make these wings in advance?
Yes! You can bake the wings ahead of time and toss them in the sauce just before serving. This way, you can enjoy fresh and hot wings without last-minute prep.
What kind of hot sauce should I use?
Choose your favorite brand! Frank’s RedHot is a classic choice for buffalo wings, but you can experiment with others for different flavors.
Can I use frozen chicken wings?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them completely before seasoning and baking for the best results.
How can I make these wings extra crispy?
For extra crispiness, consider broiling the wings for the last few minutes of baking. Just keep a close eye on them to prevent burning!
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Wrap-Up
These Hot & Spicy Baked Buffalo Chicken Wings are sure to be a hit at your next gathering or family dinner. With the perfect balance of heat and sweetness, they’re easy to make and incredibly satisfying. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and get ready to enjoy a plateful of flavor. Happy cooking!
Hot & Spicy Baked Buffalo Chicken Wings
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for baking those wings to perfection.
- Step 2: Line your baking sheet with aluminum foil and place a cooling rack on top. Spray the cooling rack with cooking spray to ensure the wings don’t stick.
- Step 3: Pat the chicken wings dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for achieving a crispy texture.
- Step 4: In a large mixing bowl, toss the wings with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
- Step 5: Place the seasoned wings in a single layer on the cooling rack. This allows hot air to circulate around the wings for even cooking.
- Step 6: Bake the wings for 40-45 minutes, flipping them halfway through until they are golden brown and crispy.
- Step 7: While the wings are baking, combine the hot sauce, chicken broth or water, brown sugar or honey, and unsalted butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves and the sauce is heated through.
- Step 8: Once the wings are done, transfer them to a large bowl and pour the sauce over them. Toss until the wings are well coated.
- Step 9: Serve the wings hot with your favorite dipping sauces and veggies. Enjoy your Hot & Spicy Baked Buffalo Chicken Wings!
Notes
- Store leftover wings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- For extra crispiness, consider broiling the wings for the last few minutes of baking.
- Feel free to customize the sauce with your favorite hot sauce brand.
