Game Day Buffalo Wings

Buffalo Wings Recipe for Football Season

There’s no better game-day snack than a plate of crispy, tangy buffalo wings. Whether you’re hosting friends or just lounging on the couch, this recipe brings together the perfect combination of flavor and heat. Paired with a homemade buffalo sauce, these wings will have everyone coming back for more. So fire up the oven (or air fryer), grab your favorite dipping sauces, and get ready to elevate your football watch party with this ultimate buffalo wings recipe!

Buffalo Wings

Prep Time: 15 min

Cook Time: 45 min

Ingredients

For the Wings:

  • 2 lbs chicken wings, split into drumettes and flats
  • 1 tbsp baking powder (helps crisp up the wings)
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper

For the Buffalo Sauce:

  • ½ cup unsalted butter
  • ⅔ cup hot sauce (Frank’s RedHot is a classic choice)
  • 1 tbsp white vinegar
  • 1 tbsp honey (optional for a touch of sweetness)
  • ¼ tsp garlic powder
  • Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)

Preparation

1. Prep the Wings

  • Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and place a wire rack on top. This allows the wings to crisp up on all sides.
  • Pat the chicken wings dry using paper towels. This step is key to getting crispy skin.
  • In a large bowl, toss the wings with baking powder, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated. The baking powder helps give the wings that perfect crunch without frying.

2. Bake the Wings

  • Spread the wings out on the wire rack in a single layer, ensuring they don’t overlap.
  • Bake for 40-45 minutes, flipping halfway through. The wings are ready when they’re golden brown and crispy.
  • Air Fryer Option: If you prefer, you can air fry the wings at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even crisping.

3. Make the Buffalo Sauce

  • While the wings are baking, make the buffalo sauce. Melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat.
  • Once melted, whisk in the hot sauce, vinegar, honey (if using), garlic powder, and cayenne pepper (for extra heat).
  • Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes, then remove from heat.

4. Toss and Serve

  • Once the wings are done, transfer them to a large bowl. Pour the buffalo sauce over the wings and toss until fully coated.
  • Serve immediately with celery sticks, carrot sticks, and your choice of blue cheese or ranch dressing for dipping.

Tips for Success

  • Dry the wings thoroughly: The drier the wings, the crispier the skin. Use paper towels to blot off as much moisture as possible before seasoning.
  • Don’t skip the baking powder: It helps break down the proteins in the skin, ensuring that crispy, golden texture without frying.
  • Adjust heat levels: If you love your wings extra spicy, feel free to add more cayenne pepper or use a hotter sauce in the buffalo mixture.

Bonus: Variations on Buffalo Wings

  • Honey BBQ Wings: Swap out the buffalo sauce for your favorite BBQ sauce mixed with a little honey for a sweet and tangy twist.
  • Garlic Parmesan Wings: Toss crispy wings in melted butter mixed with minced garlic and a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.
  • Lemon Pepper Wings: Before baking, coat the wings with a mixture of lemon zest, black pepper, garlic powder, and a touch of salt for a zesty, flavorful bite.

Why Whiting?

Eggs Benedict with Smoked Turkey