Baked Buffalo Wings: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Dish
Are you a fan of the classic buffalo wings but want to try something different? Look no further! In this article, we will explore the world of baked buffalo wings – a mouthwatering twist on the traditional deep-fried version. Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with this healthier alternative that doesn’t compromise on flavor.
The Benefits of Baked Buffalo Wings
When it comes to wings, the deep-fried version often takes the spotlight. However, baked buffalo wings offer a range of benefits that are worth considering. Not only are they lower in fat and calories, but they also retain that irresistible crispy texture that we all love. By baking the wings instead of frying them, you can indulge in this delicious treat guilt-free.
Healthier without Sacrificing Flavor
One of the greatest advantages of baked buffalo wings is the reduced amount of oil used in the cooking process. By baking the wings in the oven, you can achieve that crispy exterior without the need for excessive oil. This means you can enjoy a plateful of wings without feeling weighed down or guilty about the extra calories.
Easy to Make
Baked buffalo wings are incredibly easy to make, making them a perfect choice for both novice and experienced cooks. With just a few simple ingredients and a hot oven, you can have a delicious batch of wings ready to devour in no time. Plus, you won’t have to deal with the mess and hassle of deep-frying.
How to Make Baked Buffalo Wings
Now that you’re convinced to give baked buffalo wings a try, let’s dive into the simple steps to make this delectable dish:
Step 1: Prepare the Wings
Start by ensuring your wings are dry. Pat them with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture. This will help achieve that desired crispiness. Next, season the wings with salt and pepper or any other preferred seasoning, such as garlic powder or paprika.
Step 2: Bake in the Oven
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place the wings on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil to prevent sticking. Bake for about 45 minutes, flipping the wings halfway through to ensure even cooking and browning.
Step 3: Toss in Buffalo Sauce
While the wings are baking, prepare the buffalo sauce. In a saucepan, combine hot sauce, melted butter, a splash of vinegar, and a pinch of salt. Heat the sauce over low heat until the butter is fully melted and the ingredients are well combined.
Step 4: Coat the Wings
Once the wings are cooked and golden brown, transfer them to a large bowl. Pour the buffalo sauce over the wings and toss them gently to coat each piece evenly. The sauce will cling to the crispy exterior, adding that signature tangy and spicy flavor.
FAQs about Baked Buffalo Wings
Q1: Can I use boneless chicken for baked buffalo wings?
A1: Absolutely! Boneless chicken, such as chicken breast or tenders, can be used to make baked buffalo wings. Simply adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure the chicken is fully cooked.
Q2: How can I make the buffalo sauce milder?
A2: If you prefer a milder flavor, you can reduce the amount of hot sauce or add a dollop of honey or maple syrup to balance out the spice.
Q3: Can I make baked buffalo wings ahead of time?
A3: Yes, you can make the wings ahead of time and reheat them when you’re ready to enjoy. Simply store the cooked wings in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven until heated through.
Q4: What can I serve with baked buffalo wings?
A4: Baked buffalo wings pair well with a variety of sides, such as celery sticks, carrot sticks, ranch or blue cheese dressing, and crispy fries. Get creative and serve them alongside your favorite dips and accompaniments.
Q5: Can I make baked buffalo wings without using butter?
A5: Yes, you can substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative, such as vegan butter or olive oil, for a dairy-free version of baked buffalo wings.
Q6: How do I make the wings extra crispy?
A6: For extra crispy wings, you can increase the oven temperature slightly or broil them for a few minutes after baking. Just keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.
Q7: Can I use a different sauce instead of buffalo sauce?
A7: Definitely! If you’re not a fan of buffalo sauce, you can experiment with different sauces, such as barbecue, honey mustard, or teriyaki, to give your wings a unique twist.
Q8: Are baked buffalo wings suitable for a crowd?
A8: Absolutely! Baked buffalo wings are a crowd-pleasing appetizer or main dish that can be easily scaled up to feed a large gathering. Simply increase the quantities of wings and sauce accordingly.
In Conclusion
Baked buffalo wings offer a healthier and equally delicious alternative to their deep-fried counterparts. With their crispy exterior, tangy and spicy buffalo sauce, and easy preparation, these wings are sure to become a favorite in your household. So why wait? Gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and get ready to enjoy a plateful of irresistible baked buffalo wings!
Baked Buffalo Wings
Ingredients
- Non-stick cooking spray
- 3/4 cup of all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 20 chicken wings
- 1/2 cup of melted butter
- 1/2 cup of hot pepper sauce (e.g. , Frank
s RedHot®)
Instructions
- Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and lightly grease it with cooking spray.
- In a resealable plastic bag, combine flour, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and salt. Shake the bag to mix the ingredients together.
- Add the chicken wings to the bag, seal it, and toss until the wings are well coated with the flour mixture.
- Transfer the coated wings to the prepared baking sheet and refrigerate them for at least 1 hour.
- Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).
- In a small bowl, whisk together melted butter and hot sauce.
- Dip each wing into the butter mixture and place them back on the baking sheet.
- Bake the wings in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
- Flip the wings and continue cooking until they are crispy on the outside and no longer pink in the center, which should take about 25 more minutes.
