If you have been searching for that perfect combo of crispy texture and fiery flavor to elevate your snack game, look no further—this Crispy Baked Chicken Wings with Hot Sauce Recipe is an absolute winner. Imagine wings that are baked to golden-brown perfection with a satisfyingly crunch that holds up under a luscious coating of buttery hot sauce. It’s the kind of dish that instantly turns any casual gathering or game day into a celebration while making your taste buds dance with joy. Friendly, flavorful, and just the right amount of heat, this recipe is destined to become your go-to wing fix.

Crispy Baked Chicken Wings with Hot Sauce Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every great recipe starts with simple yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each element in this list plays an essential role, whether it’s building the crispy outer layer, infusing subtle spices, or creating that delectable hot sauce glaze that ties everything together.

  • 2 pounds chicken wings, split at joints and tips removed: Choose fresh wings with skin intact for maximum crispiness and juiciness.
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder (aluminum-free): This is the secret weapon to dry out the skin and deliver that irresistible crisp.
  • 1 teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all other flavors.
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle heat and depth to the seasoning mix.
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: A classic flavor booster that pairs beautifully with chicken.
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika: Provides color and a mild smokiness to complement the hot sauce.
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional): For those who love an extra kick of heat, this little addition balances perfectly.
  • 1/4 cup melted butter: Creates the luscious, rich base of the hot sauce coating.
  • 1/3 cup hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot): This classic hot sauce brings that tangy, spicy finish we all crave on wings.

How to Make Crispy Baked Chicken Wings with Hot Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Prepare and Dry the Wings

First, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). The key to crispy wings lies in perfectly dry skin, so pat each wing thoroughly with paper towels. Moisture is the enemy of crispiness, so take your time here!

Step 2: Season and Coat the Wings

In a large bowl, toss the wings with baking powder, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper if you want some heat. This seasoning mix is not only flavorful but also crucial for creating that coveted crisp crust as the baking powder works its magic.

Step 3: Arrange on a Rack and Bake

Place a wire rack over a baking sheet to allow air circulation around each wing. This setup helps the wings bake evenly and get crispy on all sides. Arrange the wings skin side up in a single layer, then pop them in the oven for 40 to 45 minutes. Remember to flip them halfway through to encourage even browning and crunch.

Step 4: Prepare the Hot Sauce Mixture

While the wings are baking away, combine the melted butter and your favorite hot sauce in a bowl. This luscious mix will coat the wings once they’re out of the oven, creating that signature vibrant flavor.

Step 5: Toss and Serve

The moment you’ve been waiting for! Once the wings are golden brown and irresistibly crispy, toss them gently in the hot sauce mixture to coat every nook and cranny. Serve immediately with classic ranch or blue cheese dressing and some fresh celery sticks for a delightfully balanced bite.

How to Serve Crispy Baked Chicken Wings with Hot Sauce Recipe

Crispy Baked Chicken Wings with Hot Sauce Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

Sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley or green onions over the wings to add a splash of color and freshness. A squeeze of lime can bring a fun tangy brightness that contrasts beautifully with the heat.

Side Dishes

Pair these spicy crispy wings with crunchy celery sticks and creamy dips like ranch or blue cheese to cool the palate. For a fuller meal, crispy fries, coleslaw, or a fresh garden salad complement perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve your Crispy Baked Chicken Wings with Hot Sauce Recipe in a large bowl surrounded by small dipping bowls filled with a variety of sauces—think honey mustard, garlic aioli, or smoky BBQ. You can even skewer the wings for easy finger food at parties!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, store any leftover wings in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making for excellent next-day snacks or quick meal additions.

Freezing

If you want to go even further, freeze the wings in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to freezer bags. This method keeps wings from sticking together and preserves their quality well for up to 2 months.

Reheating

To bring back that fresh-out-of-the-oven crispness, reheat your wings in a 400°F oven on a wire rack over a baking sheet for about 10 to 15 minutes. Avoid microwaving as it can make the wings soggy.

FAQs

Can I use regular baking powder instead of aluminum-free?

It’s best to use aluminum-free baking powder because it doesn’t impart a metallic taste and helps the wings crisp better without affecting flavor.

What if I don’t have Frank’s RedHot sauce?

Feel free to use any hot sauce you like! Just adjust the amount to suit your heat tolerance and flavor preferences.

How can I make these wings less spicy?

Simply omit the cayenne pepper and use a milder hot sauce or reduce the quantity of hot sauce in the butter mixture.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! The ingredients used here are naturally gluten-free, just double-check your baking powder and hot sauce labels to be sure.

Can I bake the wings ahead of time before tossing in sauce?

You can bake and refrigerate the wings ahead of time but toss them in the hot sauce just before serving for the best flavor and texture.

Final Thoughts

Now that you’ve discovered this mouthwatering Crispy Baked Chicken Wings with Hot Sauce Recipe, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and dive in. The combination of crunchy, juicy, and spicy in every bite makes it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, whether for a cozy night in or a lively get-together. Trust me, once you try these wings, they’ll become a staple in your recipe arsenal!

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Crispy Baked Chicken Wings with Hot Sauce Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4 from 90 reviews
  • Author: admin
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Appetizer, Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

This crispy baked chicken wings recipe combines perfectly seasoned wings with a homemade hot sauce and butter coating for a deliciously spicy and savory appetizer or main course. The wings are baked to golden perfection for a healthier alternative to fried wings, with a crispy skin and tender inside, ideal for game day or casual gatherings.


Ingredients

Scale

Chicken Wings

  • 2 pounds chicken wings, split at joints and tips removed
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder (aluminum-free)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

Sauce

  • 1/4 cup melted butter
  • 1/3 cup hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)


Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Wings: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Pat the chicken wings completely dry with paper towels to ensure maximum crispiness during baking.
  2. Season Wings: In a large bowl, toss the dried wings with baking powder, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper if using. Make sure each wing is evenly coated for consistent flavor and texture.
  3. Arrange Wings for Baking: Place a wire rack on top of a baking sheet and arrange the wings in a single layer, skin side up. This setup promotes even heat circulation and crispiness.
  4. Bake Wings: Bake the wings in the preheated oven for 40 to 45 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time so both sides become golden brown and crispy.
  5. Prepare Sauce: While the wings bake, mix the melted butter and hot sauce in a bowl to create a spicy and tangy coating.
  6. Toss Wings in Sauce: Once baked, immediately toss the hot wings in the prepared sauce until fully coated, ensuring every bite is flavorful.
  7. Serve: Serve the wings piping hot with optional ranch or blue cheese dressing and celery sticks for a classic pairing.

Notes

  • You can air fry the wings at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes if you prefer a faster cooking method.
  • Adjust the spiciness by increasing or decreasing the cayenne pepper or hot sauce amount as desired.
  • For different flavor variations, toss wings in BBQ, honey garlic, or teriyaki sauces instead of hot sauce.

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