Oven baked Buffalo wings

If there’s one thing that I think American cuisine knocks out of the park each time it’s bar food. Here, in Australia, I believe we’ve nailed pub food. From the chicken parma (or parmi, depending on geographic location), through to the steak sandwich, we love a long and delicious pub lunch. But I think our late night munchie foods could do with a bit of work. That’s why I’ve always had a soft spot for oven baked Buffalo wings. They are a healthier alternative to fried wings and perfect for game days or parties, especially when you crave the deliciousness of buffalo chicken wings.

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Oven baked Buffalo wings

We recently looked at garlic confit chicken wings. Crispy baked chicken wings are an easy and healthy alternative to fried wings, perfect for casual gatherings. This felt like a more grand, more gourmet (dare I say!) play on the classic. But sometimes, if it ain’t broke don’t fix it! And what I think is not broken is Frank’s Hot Sauce and the delicious wings that it can create. It just has to be Frank’s Hot Sauce. This is the most authentic pathway to achieving the American diner flavour into your dish.

Who will enjoy these oven baked Buffalo wings?

Are you a fan of spicy and savory flavors? Look no further than oven-baked buffalo wings! This popular appetizer dish is a healthier alternative to deep-fried wings and can be made with ease in the comfort of your own home. Imagine biting into crispy, oven-baked buffalo wings coated in tangy buffalo sauce, with a side of cooling blue cheese or ranch dip. In this article, we’ll take you through the steps to make these irresistible wings that are sure to satisfy your cravings.

What is a Buffalo wing?

What is an oven baked Buffalo wing? For my readers over the pond, I’d almost guarantee that you know it. But for the local readers, it might be a bit more foreign.

Originating in Buffalo, New York, a buffalo wing is a crunchy chicken wing (think Hot Ones style wings) with a spicy but kind of vinegary flavour to it. They traditionally are paired with a blue cheese dipping sauce that is cooling and refreshing to counteract the insane flavour (and spice) from the wings. But I have served them with ranch sauce which is also a delicious option! Baked chicken wings can achieve the same crispy texture as fried wings while being healthier, making them a perfect appetizer for events like game days.

The delicious snack was first thought of in 1964 by Teressa Bellisima. And, it was always, from the very start, a late night bar snack. The story goes: that when there was an unannounced late-night arrival of Dominic, Teressa’s son, with several of his friends from college, Teressa needed a fast and easy snack to present to her guests. It was then that she came up with the idea of frying chicken wings and tossing them in cayenne hot sauce. And so we have Teressa’s quick thinking and spicy palate to thank for these almighty, all-time bar food.

Ingredients and Equipment

To make oven-baked buffalo wings, you’ll need the following ingredients and equipment:

• chicken wings: The star of the show! Make sure to get fresh, high-quality wings.
• baking powder: This is the secret to achieving ultra crispy buffalo wings.
• garlic powder: Adds a delicious, savoury flavour to the wings.
• paprika: For a touch of smokiness and colour.
• salt: Essential for seasoning.
• black pepper: Adds a bit of heat and depth.
• hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot): The key ingredient for that classic buffalo flavor. If you want an authentic buffalo sauce taste, you must use Frank’s Red Hot Sauce.
• butter: Helps to create a rich and smooth buffalo sauce and cut through the heat and richness of Frank’s hot sauce.
• blue cheese crumbles (optional): Perfect for sprinkling on top of the wings.
• chopped celery (optional): Adds a refreshing crunch.
• Baking sheet lined with aluminum foil: For easy cleanup.
• Oven-safe rack: Ensures even cooking and crispiness.
• Tongs or spatula for turning wings: Makes handling the hot wings a breeze.

Preparing the Chicken Wings

Before baking, it’s essential to prepare the chicken wings properly. Here’s how:

1. Rinse the chicken wings under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps to remove any excess moisture, ensuring crispy wings.
2. Remove any excess skin or cartilage from the wings. This step is optional but can make for a more pleasant eating experience.
3. Cut the wings into drumsticks and flats, if desired. This makes them easier to handle and eat.
4. Season the wings with salt, pepper, and any other desired spices. This is where you can get creative and add your own twist!

Baking the Chicken Wings

To achieve crispy, oven-baked buffalo wings, follow these steps:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). A hot oven is crucial for crispy wings.
2. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and place an oven-safe rack on top. This setup allows air to circulate around the wings, ensuring even cooking.
3. Arrange the chicken wings on the rack in a single layer, leaving about 1 inch of space between each wing. This prevents overcrowding and helps them cook evenly.
4. Bake the wings for 30-35 minutes, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This ensures they are fully cooked and safe to eat.
5. After 20-25 minutes of baking, increase the oven temperature to broil (high heat). This step is key for achieving that perfect level of crispiness.

Buffalo Sauce and Seasoning

The buffalo sauce is a crucial component of oven-baked buffalo wings. Here’s a simple recipe to make your own buffalo sauce:

1. In a small saucepan, melt 1/4 cup of butter over medium heat. This forms the base of your sauce.
2. Add 1/4 cup of hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot) and stir until well combined. This gives the sauce its signature tangy and spicy flavor.
3. Add 1 tablespoon of garlic powder and 1 tablespoon of paprika. Stir until well combined. These spices add depth and complexity to the sauce.
4. Remove the sauce from heat and let it cool to room temperature. This helps the flavors meld together.
5. Once the wings are done baking, toss them in the buffalo sauce until they’re fully coated. Make sure each wing is generously covered.
6. Serve the wings hot with blue cheese crumbles, chopped celery, and your favorite dipping sauce. Enjoy the perfect balance of spicy, tangy, and creamy flavors!

Note: You can adjust the level of heat in the buffalo sauce by adding more or less hot sauce. Enjoy your ultra crispy buffalo wings!