Baked Buffalo Wings

Baked Buffalo Wings Recipe - Authentic American Flavor

Region / culture: North America, USA | Preparation time: 1 hour | Cooking time: 45 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Baked Buffalo Wings are a popular American dish known for their spicy, tangy flavor and crispy texture. This recipe offers a healthier alternative to the traditional deep-fried version without compromising on taste. Perfect for game days, parties, or a flavorful dinner option, these wings are sure to be a hit with everyone.

History

The Buffalo wing was first created in Buffalo, New York, in the 1960s. While there are several stories about its origin, the most widely accepted version credits Teressa Bellissimo, co-owner of the Anchor Bar, with its invention. Originally, the wings were deep-fried and tossed in a cayenne pepper hot sauce and butter mixture. Over the years, the recipe has evolved, with baked versions becoming popular for their ease and health benefits.

Ingredients

0.75 cup of all-purpose flour
0.5 tbsp of cayenne pepper
0.5 tbsp of garlic powder
0.5 tbsp of salt
20 chicken wings
0.5 cup of melted butter (plain only)
0.5 cup of hot pepper sauce
3 tbsp of black pepper (optional)
3 tbsp of chili powder (optional)

How to prepare

Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and lightly grease it with cooking spray. Place the flour, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, salt, black pepper (optional), and chili powder (optional) into a resealable plastic bag. Shake the bag to mix the ingredients well.
Add the chicken wings to the bag, seal it, and toss the wings until they are well coated with the flour mixture.
Place the coated wings onto the prepared baking sheet and refrigerate them for at least 1 hour.
Preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C). In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter and hot sauce.
Dip each wing into the butter mixture and place it back on the baking sheet.
Bake the wings in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes, or until the chicken is no longer pink in the center and crispy on the outside. Make sure to turn the wings over halfway through cooking to ensure even cooking.
Serve the wings hot, either plain or with rice, any dip, or other appetizers, main dishes, or side dishes.

Variations

For a spicier kick, increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add a few dashes of extra hot sauce to the butter mixture. For a sweeter version, mix in a tablespoon of honey with the hot sauce and butter.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

For the crispiest wings, ensure they are thoroughly dried before coating them with the flour mixture. Refrigerating the coated wings before baking helps the coating stick better and results in a crisper exterior. Turning the wings halfway through baking ensures even cooking and crispiness on all sides.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Baked Buffalo Wings with celery sticks and a side of blue cheese or ranch dressing for dipping. They also pair well with a simple side salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.

Cooking Techniques

Baking is the recommended cooking technique for this recipe, as it reduces the fat content without sacrificing flavor or texture. For an extra crispy finish, broil the wings for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. If you're avoiding dairy, use a plant-based butter alternative in place of regular butter.

Make Ahead Tips

The wings can be coated with the flour mixture and refrigerated up to a day in advance. This not only saves time but can also result in a crispier coating after baking.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the wings on a platter garnished with chopped green onions or parsley. Serve the dipping sauce in a small bowl in the center of the platter for an appealing presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Baked Buffalo Wings with a crisp, light beer or a glass of Riesling to balance the spiciness of the wings. Non-alcoholic options include iced tea or lemonade.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover wings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 10-15 minutes, to maintain crispiness.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A serving of Baked Buffalo Wings contains approximately 290 calories. This makes it a relatively low-calorie option compared to deep-fried wings, which can have significantly more calories due to the oil absorption.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Baked Buffalo Wings contains approximately 5 grams of carbohydrates. The primary source of carbohydrates in this recipe comes from the all-purpose flour used for coating the wings.

Fats

The total fat content in a serving of Baked Buffalo Wings is about 15 grams. This includes both saturated and unsaturated fats, primarily from the butter and the chicken wings themselves. Using unsalted butter can help control the sodium content without affecting the fat content significantly.

Proteins

Chicken wings are an excellent source of protein. A serving of Baked Buffalo Wings provides roughly 22 grams of protein, making it a satisfying and muscle-building food choice.

Vitamins and minerals

Baked Buffalo Wings are a source of several vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin B6, Vitamin B12, niacin, and selenium. These nutrients are essential for energy production, maintaining healthy skin, and supporting the immune system.

Alergens

The primary allergens in this recipe are gluten (from the all-purpose flour) and dairy (from the butter). Individuals with sensitivities to these ingredients should consider suitable substitutions.

Summary

Baked Buffalo Wings offer a balance of protein, fats, and carbohydrates, with a moderate calorie count. They provide essential vitamins and minerals, making them a nutritious option for a meal or snack. However, individuals with specific dietary needs should be mindful of the allergens present.

Summary

Baked Buffalo Wings are a delicious, healthier alternative to the traditional deep-fried version. With a perfect balance of flavors and a crispy texture, they're sure to be a crowd-pleaser. This recipe is not only easy to make but also versatile, allowing for various substitutions and variations to suit different dietary needs and taste preferences.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the joy I felt when I first stumbled upon this recipe for Baked Buffalo Wings. It was many years ago, when my husband and I were on a road trip through upstate New York. We had stopped at a quaint little diner for lunch, and I saw Buffalo Wings on the menu. I had heard of them before, but I had never tried them.

When the waitress brought out a steaming plate of crispy, spicy wings, I was hooked from the first bite. The combination of tangy hot sauce and creamy blue cheese dressing was simply irresistible. I knew right then and there that I had to learn how to make these delicious wings myself.

After we finished our meal, I asked the waitress if she could share the recipe with me. She laughed and said it was a closely guarded secret, passed down through generations of her family. But she did offer to give me a few tips on how to make them at home.

I eagerly took out a pen and paper and scribbled down everything she told me. She explained that the key to great Buffalo Wings was in the sauce – a mixture of hot sauce, butter, and a few secret ingredients that she wouldn't reveal. She also told me that the wings needed to be baked, not fried, to achieve the perfect crispy texture.

Armed with this new knowledge, I couldn't wait to get home and start experimenting in my own kitchen. Over the next few weeks, I tried out different combinations of hot sauce and spices until I finally hit upon the perfect recipe. The wings were spicy, crispy, and packed with flavor – just like the ones I had tried at the diner.

I served them to my family that night for dinner, and they were an instant hit. My husband declared them the best wings he had ever tasted, and my children begged me to make them again the next night. From then on, Baked Buffalo Wings became a staple in our household, a dish that we enjoyed on special occasions and lazy Sunday afternoons alike.

As the years went by, I continued to perfect my recipe for Baked Buffalo Wings. I added a touch of honey for sweetness, a sprinkle of garlic powder for depth of flavor, and a dash of Worcestershire sauce for richness. Each time I made them, I would tweak the recipe just a little bit more, until it was absolutely perfect.

I shared my recipe with friends and neighbors, who all raved about how delicious the wings were. Some even asked me to cater their parties or potlucks, just so they could have a taste of my famous Buffalo Wings. I was thrilled to see how much joy my cooking brought to others, and I felt proud to have mastered such a beloved dish.

To this day, I still make Baked Buffalo Wings for my family and friends. It's a recipe that has stood the test of time, a dish that never fails to bring smiles to the faces of those who try it. And every time I take a bite of those spicy, crispy wings, I am transported back to that little diner in upstate New York, where I first fell in love with this delicious recipe.