Buffalo Wing Recipe (with Video)

Buffalo Wing Recipe: Buffalo wings are one of America’s favorite party snacks. These juicy, deep-fried chicken wings are coated in a tangy, spicy sauce made primarily from hot sauce and butter. Served traditionally with celery sticks and blue cheese dressing, they’re a staple at sports events, casual gatherings, and late-night cravings. What makes them stand out? It’s that crispy skin combined with a buttery, fiery coating that makes your taste buds dance.

Origin of Buffalo Wings

Buffalo wings hail from Buffalo, New York—hence the name. The legend goes that in 1964, Teressa Bellissimo at the Anchor Bar cooked up leftover chicken wings in hot sauce for her son and his friends. It was a hit and became a menu staple. Since then, buffalo wings have soared in popularity, spawning countless variations and loyal fans around the world. Their simplicity and bold flavor make them endlessly craveable.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Chicken Wings

To make buffalo wings, the chicken must be just right. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 2 pounds of chicken wings (drumettes and flats)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika (for a smoky touch)
• 1 tablespoon baking powder (for extra crispiness if baking)

For the Buffalo Sauce

This is the heart of your wings:

• 1/2 cup Frank’s RedHot Sauce (or your preferred hot sauce)
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon white vinegar
• 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for heat)
• 1 clove garlic, minced (optional)

Optional Garnishes and Sides

Complete your wings with these:

• Fresh celery sticks
• Carrot sticks
• Blue cheese dressing or ranch dip
• Chopped parsley or chives (for garnish)

These ingredients are easy to find and simple to prepare. Once you’ve got everything ready, you’re on your way to buffalo wing heaven.

Prepping the Chicken Wings

Cleaning and Cutting the Wings

Start by rinsing your chicken wings under cold water and patting them dry with paper towels. This removes excess moisture which helps them get crispy during cooking. If your wings come whole, you’ll need to separate them into drumettes and flats. Use a sharp knife to cut at the joint. Discard the wing tips or save them for making chicken stock.

Marination for Maximum Flavor

While not strictly necessary, marinating your wings can make a big difference. Toss the wings with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Let them sit for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator. For an extra punch, you can add a tablespoon of hot sauce into the marinade. This lets the flavors sink into the meat before they hit the heat.

Cooking Methods

Deep-Frying Buffalo Wings

This is the classic method. Heat about 2 inches of oil in a heavy pot or deep fryer to 375°F (190°C). Fry the wings in small batches so the temperature doesn’t drop too much. Cook for 10–12 minutes until golden and crispy. Drain them on a wire rack or paper towels.

The deep-fry method gives you that irresistible crunch and rich flavor. But it’s also messier and adds more calories, so let’s look at healthier alternatives too.

Oven-Baked Buffalo Wings

Prefer a less greasy option? Baking is a solid alternative. Preheat your oven to 425°F (218°C). Place the wings on a wire rack over a baking sheet lined with foil. For ultra-crisp skin, coat the wings in a mixture of baking powder and seasoning.

Bake for 20 minutes, flip the wings, and bake for another 20–25 minutes. You’ll get a crispy texture that’s surprisingly close to fried wings with way less oil.

Air Fryer Option for Healthier Wings

The air fryer is the modern cook’s best friend. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C), arrange the wings in a single layer, and cook for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through. The result? Super crispy wings with almost no oil. It’s fast, easy, and your kitchen won’t smell like a fryer.

Making the Perfect Buffalo Sauce

Ingredients Breakdown

The buffalo sauce is what transforms ordinary chicken wings into mouthwatering, finger-lickin’ magic. The beauty of this sauce is in its balance of tangy, buttery, and spicy flavors. Here’s a closer look at what goes into it:

• Hot Sauce: Frank’s RedHot is the classic choice for authentic buffalo flavor, but you can experiment with others like Cholula or Texas Pete.
• Butter: Adds richness and mellows out the heat, creating a silky texture.
• White Vinegar: Enhances the tang and helps balance the richness.
• Worcestershire Sauce: A touch of umami that adds complexity.
• Cayenne Pepper: Controls the heat level; dial it up or down depending on your spice tolerance.
• Garlic (Optional): Adds a savory punch if you love a garlicky kick.

This combo is simple yet unforgettable. The key is the ratio—equal parts hot sauce and butter is a great place to start.

Step-by-Step Sauce Preparation

1. Melt the Butter: In a small saucepan, melt 1/2 cup of unsalted butter over low heat. Keep it low—you don’t want to brown or burn it.
2. Add the Hot Sauce: Slowly stir in 1/2 cup of hot sauce. Keep mixing to combine.
3. Add Flavor Enhancers: Stir in 1 tablespoon of white vinegar, 1/2 teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce, and 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper. If you’re using garlic, toss that in too.
4. Simmer Gently: Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes while stirring. Don’t let it boil.
5. Turn Off Heat: Once everything is well-blended, remove from heat. Give it a taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Voilà! Your sauce is now ready to meet the wings.

Coating the Wings in Buffalo Sauce

Now for the fun part—tossing the wings in that fiery, buttery goodness. Once your wings are cooked, place them in a large mixing bowl. Pour the warm buffalo sauce over them. Use tongs or toss the bowl (carefully!) to coat every piece evenly.

Make sure the wings are hot when you add the sauce—this helps the sauce stick and soak in better. Don’t overdo it, though. You want each wing to be glazed, not swimming in sauce. Let them rest for a minute to absorb all the flavor before serving.

This step is where wings turn from crispy chicken bites into flavor-packed buffalo legends.

Tips for Extra Crispy Buffalo Wings

Crispiness is non-negotiable when it comes to buffalo wings. Whether you’re frying, baking, or air frying, these tips will help:

• Pat Dry the Wings: Moisture is your enemy. Dry wings crisp up better.
• Use Baking Powder (Not Baking Soda): This secret weapon raises the pH level and helps break down the skin, making it crispy in the oven or air fryer.
• Cook at High Heat: Whether baking or air frying, go for at least 400°F (204°C) for that golden, crunchy texture.
• Don’t Crowd the Pan or Basket: Wings need space to cook evenly. Overcrowding causes steaming, which leads to sogginess.
• Flip Halfway Through: This ensures all sides get crispy, not just the top.

Want them extra crispy? After coating in sauce, pop them back in the oven or air fryer for 5 minutes. You’ll get that sticky-crunchy finish that’s absolutely irresistible.

Best Sides to Serve with Buffalo Wings

Wings are great solo, but they’re even better with the right supporting cast. Here are the MVP sides to pair with your buffalo wings:

1. Celery and Carrot Sticks: The classic cool-down crunch.
2. French Fries or Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy, salty goodness.
3. Macaroni and Cheese: Creamy comfort food to balance the heat.
4. Coleslaw: Adds a refreshing tangy crunch.
5. Onion Rings: Deep-fried rings of delight.
6. Cornbread or Garlic Bread: Because carbs make everything better.

You can also throw in a simple green salad if you want a lighter touch. Sides give your wings more variety and help cater to everyone at the table.

Dipping Sauces that Pair Perfectly

Buffalo wings are fantastic on their own, but a good dipping sauce can take them from tasty to unforgettable. Here are some top contenders:

1. Blue Cheese Dressing – The most traditional pairing. Its creamy texture and tangy flavor provide a perfect contrast to spicy wings. Some love the chunks of blue cheese; others prefer a smooth version.
2. Ranch Dressing – A favorite for those who find blue cheese too bold. It’s creamy, herby, and refreshing.
3. Honey Mustard – If you like sweet and tangy, this is your go-to. It mellows out the heat and adds a pop of flavor.
4. Garlic Aioli – Smooth, garlicky, and indulgent. Great for elevating your wing game.
5. BBQ Sauce – For a smoky, sweet detour from spice, BBQ sauce adds a whole new dimension.

The trick is having at least two sauces available—one creamy and one sweet or tangy. That way, everyone finds their favorite combo. Try serving them in mini ramekins or shot glasses for a stylish presentation.

Buffalo Wings for Game Day

Game day without buffalo wings? That’s practically illegal in some households. These spicy little powerhouses are made for sharing, snacking, and celebrating (or stress-eating during the final quarter).

Here’s how to make buffalo wings game-day ready:

• Make a Big Batch: Cook more than you think you’ll need. These disappear fast.
• Offer a Sauce Bar: Let guests pick their favorite sauce—buffalo, BBQ, garlic parmesan, honey sriracha, etc.
• Provide Napkins and Wet Wipes: Things will get messy. Be prepared.
• Serve with Finger Foods: Think sliders, nachos, and loaded potato skins.
• Keep ‘Em Warm: Use a slow cooker on the warm setting to keep wings hot and saucy during the game.

Wings are the MVP of any sports-watching event, and prepping ahead ensures your hosting skills are as on point as your culinary ones.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

Got leftovers? Lucky you. Buffalo wings reheat surprisingly well if stored properly. Here’s how to keep them tasting great:

Storing Buffalo Wings:

• Refrigerate: Place cooled wings in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
• Freeze: For longer storage, place in a freezer-safe bag. Separate layers with parchment paper and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating Buffalo Wings:

• Oven (Best Option): Preheat to 375°F (190°C), place wings on a wire rack, and bake for 10–15 minutes. This keeps them crispy.
• Air Fryer: Heat at 375°F for 5–8 minutes.
• Microwave (Last Resort): Place on a plate with a damp paper towel. Microwave in 30-second bursts, but note they may turn soggy.

Avoid reheating in sauce—reheat wings first, then re-toss them in warmed buffalo sauce to keep the flavor and texture intact.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even seasoned cooks can mess up wings. Here are the most common mistakes—and how to avoid them:

1. Not Drying the Wings First: Moisture kills crispiness. Always pat them dry.
2. Skipping the Baking Powder: If you’re baking, this ingredient makes all the difference in achieving that crackly skin.
3. Overcrowding the Pan: Whether frying or baking, leave space. Crowding leads to steaming, not crisping.
4. Overheating the Sauce: High heat can break the sauce and make it greasy. Simmer gently.
5. Drenching Wings Too Soon: Toss in sauce just before serving to avoid sogginess.
6. Not Adjusting Spice Levels: Too hot or not hot enough? Taste and tweak before you pour the sauce.
7. Ignoring Rest Time: Letting wings sit for a couple of minutes after coating helps the sauce absorb.

Avoid these, and you’ll get perfect wings every single time.

FAQs about Buffalo Wing Recipe

Can I make buffalo wings without frying?

Yes! Baking or using an air fryer can yield deliciously crispy wings without all the oil. Just be sure to pat the wings dry and use baking powder for extra crunch.

How do I make buffalo wings less spicy?

Reduce the amount of cayenne or use a milder hot sauce. You can also add extra butter or a splash of honey to mellow the heat.

What’s the difference between hot wings and buffalo wings?

Buffalo wings are a type of hot wing, specifically made with a butter and hot sauce combo. Other hot wings may use different spicy sauces without the butter base.

Can I use frozen wings?

Yes, but thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking. Moisture from frozen wings can prevent crisping and cause oil splatter when frying.

How long can I store cooked buffalo wings?

Refrigerated wings last up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze them for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or air fryer for best results.

Conclusion

Buffalo wings are more than just food—they’re an experience. From their fiery sauce to that satisfying crunch, every bite delivers pure comfort and bold flavor. Whether you’re deep-frying for authenticity or baking for a healthier touch, the steps are simple and the payoff is huge.

They’re the ultimate crowd-pleaser for game nights, parties, or casual weeknight dinners. With this step-by-step guide, you now have everything you need to whip up wings that rival any restaurant’s. Grab those napkins, pour a cold drink, and enjoy the spicy, buttery ride.