Name: Baked Buffalo Wings
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 80 min
Total time: 95 min
Ingredients: 4 pounds chicken wings (flats and wingtips removed); 2 tablespoons baking powder; 4 tablespoons buttermilk (melted); 2 tablespoons hot sauce; Blue cheese dressing (for serving); Celery sticks (for serving)

There’s something undeniably irresistible about buffalo wings. The perfect balance of spicy heat, tangy flavor, and crispy skin makes them a favorite for game days, casual dinners, or any time you crave a crowd-pleasing snack. But what if you could enjoy that classic buffalo wing flavor without the mess of deep frying? Enter: Baked Buffalo Wings. This recipe brings you all the bold flavors and satisfying crunch with a simple, healthier twist.

Whether you’re a seasoned wing lover or just dipping your toes into the world of homemade appetizers, these wings are straightforward to make and incredibly rewarding. Plus, with a little help from buttermilk and baking powder, these wings get that coveted crispy texture right in your oven. Ready to dive in? Let’s get started!

Why This Recipe Belongs in Your Rotation

First off, baked buffalo wings are a game changer for anyone who loves wings but wants to avoid the hassle and oil of frying. Baking them not only reduces the fat content but also keeps your kitchen cleaner and your conscience clear. The magic here is in the baking powder — it’s the secret ingredient that helps dry out the skin, making it wonderfully crisp without any frying required.

Another reason this recipe shines is its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients like chicken wings, buttermilk, and hot sauce, you can whip up a batch that’s bursting with flavor. And the versatility? Endless. Serve them with celery sticks and a creamy, cooling blue cheese dressing for that authentic buffalo wing experience, or mix and match with your favorite sides and dips.

If you’re looking for more flavorful poultry recipes to rotate through your dinner lineup, you might also enjoy my Garlic Herb Butter Roast Chicken or the sweet-savory delight of Crispy Honey Garlic Chicken.

What You’ll Gather

4 pounds chicken wings (flats and wingtips removed – see note 1)
2 tablespoons baking powder (see note 2)
4 tablespoons buttermilk, melted
2 tablespoons hot sauce (see note 3)
Blue cheese dressing for serving (see note 4)
Celery sticks for serving

Gear Up: What to Grab

Baking sheet: A rimmed sheet pan works best to catch drips and allow air circulation.
Wire rack: Placing wings on a rack helps crisp the skin evenly on all sides.
Mixing bowls: For tossing wings with baking powder and sauce.
Tongs: To easily flip and handle wings without burning your fingers.
Meat thermometer: Optional but handy to ensure your chicken reaches the perfect safe temperature.

Make Baked Buffalo Wings: A Simple Method

Step 1: Prep Your Wings

Start by patting your chicken wings dry with paper towels. This is key for crispiness. Remove the flats and wingtips if you prefer, keeping the meaty drumettes and flat sections. In a large bowl, toss the wings with the baking powder until evenly coated. This will help the skin get that irresistible crunch.

Step 2: Bake to Perfection

Set a wire rack on top of your baking sheet and arrange the wings in a single layer, making sure they aren’t touching. Bake in a preheated oven at 250°F (120°C) for 30 minutes. This low-and-slow start renders the fat under the skin.

Then, increase the oven temperature to 425°F (220°C) and bake for an additional 40-50 minutes, flipping the wings halfway through. You’ll know they’re done when the skin is golden and crispy.

Step 3: Toss in Buffalo Sauce

While the wings bake, warm the buttermilk and mix it with your favorite hot sauce to create a tangy, spicy buffalo sauce. When the wings come out of the oven, toss them gently in this sauce until they’re evenly coated and glistening.

Step 4: Serve with the Classics

Plate your wings with crunchy celery sticks and a side of creamy blue cheese dressing for dipping. This combo balances the heat and adds that classic cooling contrast.

Dietary Customizations

Dairy-free option: Use a plant-based yogurt or milk substitute in place of buttermilk, and opt for a dairy-free ranch or blue cheese dressing.
Milder wings: Reduce the hot sauce or swap it for a milder wing sauce to suit sensitive palates.
Extra spicy: Add cayenne pepper or a dash of smoked paprika to the baking powder coating for an extra kick.
Gluten-free: Ensure your baking powder is gluten-free; most are, but it’s good to double-check.

Common Errors (and Fixes)

Wings aren’t crispy: Make sure to pat wings dry thoroughly and use baking powder, not baking soda. Also, avoid overcrowding on the rack so air can circulate.
Soggy sauce: Toss wings in sauce just before serving to keep them crisp.
Undercooked wings: Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Too salty or spicy: Adjust hot sauce and seasoning quantities to taste, and consider serving with plenty of cooling blue cheese dressing or veggies.

Best Ways to Store

Leftover wings are just as delicious the next day when stored properly. Place cooled wings in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, spread them on a baking sheet and warm in a 375°F (190°C) oven for 10-15 minutes, turning halfway through to regain crispiness. Avoid the microwave if you want to keep the skin crunchy!

Your Questions, Answered

Can I prep these wings ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can toss the wings with baking powder and refrigerate them for a few hours or overnight. Just bring them to room temperature before baking for the best results.

What’s the purpose of baking powder in the recipe?

Baking powder helps draw moisture out of the chicken skin, allowing it to crisp up beautifully in the oven without frying. It’s the secret to that restaurant-quality crunch!

Can I use a different type of hot sauce?

Yes! Feel free to use your favorite hot sauce, whether it’s milder or extra spicy. Just adjust the quantity to suit your heat preference.

How do I make this recipe with drumsticks or other chicken cuts?

While this recipe is optimized for wings, you can bake drumsticks using a similar method—just increase the baking time to ensure they’re cooked through. For a different take on chicken, try my Garlic Butter Steak Bites With Potatoes, which pairs beautifully with your favorite dipping sauces.

Garlic Herb Butter Roast Chicken – A juicy, flavorful roast that’s perfect for family dinners.
Crispy Honey Garlic Chicken – Sweet, sticky, and crispy, this chicken recipe is a showstopper.
Garlic Butter Steak Bites With Potatoes – Tender steak bites tossed in garlic butter, ideal for a quick and satisfying meal.

See You at the Table

Whether you’re serving these baked buffalo wings at a party or enjoying a cozy night in, they’re sure to bring smiles and satisfy cravings. The crispy skin, tangy sauce, and classic accompaniments make this recipe a winner every time. Don’t forget to pair your wings with plenty of celery and creamy blue cheese to balance the heat and elevate the experience.

If you’re looking for more crowd-pleasing recipes, keep exploring and experimenting in the kitchen — there’s always a new favorite waiting to be found. Happy cooking!