Name: Buffalo Chicken Wings – Crispy, Saucy and Irresistible
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: moved; 1 tsp salt; ½ tsp black pepper; ½ tsp garlic powder; 4 tbsp unsalted butter; ½ cup hot sauce (e.g., Frank’s RedHot); 1 tbsp honey (optional, for a touch of sweetness); ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for garnish); Celery sticks, for serving; Ranch or blue cheese dressing, for dipping

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how easy it is to get restaurant-quality wings right at home with this recipe. The secret is in the simple seasoning and proper cooking method—either baked or air-fried for maximum crispiness. The buffalo sauce, made with just butter, hot sauce, and a touch of honey, delivers that bold, tangy flavor I can’t get enough of. Plus, it’s easy to adjust the heat level to match what I’m in the mood for.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 lbs chicken wings, split and tips removed
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp garlic powder
4 tbsp unsalted butter
½ cup hot sauce (like Frank’s RedHot)
1 tbsp honey (optional, for slight sweetness)
½ cup grated Parmesan (optional, for garnish)
Celery sticks, for serving
Ranch or blue cheese dressing, for dipping

Directions

First, I pat the chicken wings completely dry with paper towels—this is key to getting that crispy skin. Then I season them with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
Oven method: I preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C), line a baking sheet, and arrange the wings in a single layer. I bake them for 40 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Air fryer method: I set the air fryer to 380°F (190°C) and cook the wings for 25–28 minutes, shaking the basket halfway to ensure even cooking.
While the wings cook, I melt the butter in a saucepan over low heat, stir in the hot sauce and honey, and mix until the sauce is smooth and glossy.
Once the wings are done, I transfer them to a large bowl and pour the buffalo sauce over the top, tossing to coat every piece.
I serve the wings hot, sprinkled with Parmesan if I want a little cheesy touch, and always with celery sticks and a generous side of ranch or blue cheese dressing.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 and comes together in about 55 minutes:

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes

Variations

Sometimes I toss the wings in a bit of baking powder before cooking for an extra crispy finish. I’ve also swapped out hot sauce for sriracha or a chipotle blend for a different kind of heat. When I want to add a smoky touch, I use smoked paprika or cayenne in the dry seasoning. For a twist, I’ve even coated the wings with garlic-Parmesan butter instead of the classic buffalo sauce.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftover wings in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I place them in a 375°F oven for 10–15 minutes to bring back the crispiness. The microwave works in a pinch, but I prefer the oven or air fryer for the best texture. I keep the sauce separate when storing, if possible, and toss again after reheating.

FAQs

How do I make these wings extra crispy?

I make sure the wings are very dry before cooking, and sometimes toss them in a little baking powder. Cooking them on a wire rack in the oven also helps with airflow and crispiness.

Can I use frozen wings?

Yes, but I always thaw them completely and pat them dry before seasoning and cooking. Otherwise, they won’t crisp up properly.

Is the honey necessary in the sauce?

No, but I like the slight sweetness it adds. It balances out the heat and gives the sauce a nice glossy texture.

Can I make these wings ahead of time?

Yes, I often bake or air-fry them ahead of time, store them in the fridge, and reheat in the oven before tossing with sauce. It saves time and still tastes great.

What’s the best dip for Buffalo wings?

I personally love both ranch and blue cheese. Ranch is smoother and milder, while blue cheese adds a tangy bite that pairs perfectly with the spicy wings.

Conclusion

Buffalo Chicken Wings are one of those recipes I come back to again and again. They’re easy to make, always delicious, and perfect for just about any occasion. With crispy skin, bold buffalo flavor, and a cool dip on the side, they’re downright irresistible. Once I make them at home, takeout wings just don’t compare.