Crispy Baked Buffalo Wings with Blue Cheese Dip
Achieve sports-bar quality crispy buffalo wings in your oven with our secret technique. Paired with cooling homemade blue cheese dip for the perfect bite.
Ingredients
- Chicken Wings: These are the stars of the show! I prefer using "party wings" which are pre-separated into drumettes and wingettes for convenience. Look for plump wings with smooth intact skin. You can use whole wings but will need to cut them apart.
- Baking Powder: This is the secret ingredient to achieving that crispy skin. It helps to draw out moisture and create a wonderfully crackly texture. Don't skip it! Make sure it's aluminum-free for the best flavor.
- Buffalo Sauce: The heart and soul of these buffalo wings. I prefer Frank's RedHot Original Cayenne Pepper Sauce but feel free to use your favorite brand. Experiment with different heat levels to find your perfect spice.
- Butter: Adds richness and depth of flavor to the buffalo sauce. Use unsalted butter so you can control the overall saltiness.
- Vinegar: A splash of white vinegar brightens the buffalo sauce and adds a subtle tang. You can substitute with apple cider vinegar if needed.
- Garlic Powder Onion Powder, Paprika, and Cayenne Pepper: These spices build the flavor base of the buffalo wings, adding complexity and depth.
- Blue Cheese: The cornerstone of our creamy cooling dip. Use a good quality blue cheese for the best flavor. Crumbled or slightly softened is fine.
- Sour Cream & Mayonnaise: These provide the base for the blue cheese dip adding creaminess and tang. You can substitute plain Greek yogurt for some of the sour cream for a lighter option.
- Optional: Celery sticks and carrot sticks for serving.
Instructions
- Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place a wire rack on top of a baking sheet. (Photo: Wire rack on baking sheet).
- Dry the Wings: Pat the chicken wings thoroughly dry with paper towels. This is crucial for achieving crispy skin.
- Season the Wings: In a large mixing bowl, toss the wings with baking powder, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper until evenly coated. (Photo: Wings coated in seasoning).
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Arrange the wings in a single layer on the prepared wire rack-lined baking sheet, ensuring they are not overcrowded.
- Bake: Bake for 30 minutes, then flip the wings and bake for another 20-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is golden brown and crispy. Visual Cue: The skin should be deeply golden brown.
- Prepare the Buffalo Sauce: While the wings are baking, melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the buffalo sauce and vinegar. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Make the Blue Cheese Dip: In a medium bowl, combine the blue cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise. Mix well until smooth and creamy. Adjust the seasoning to taste.
- Toss in Sauce: Once the wings are cooked, transfer them to a clean mixing bowl. Pour the buffalo sauce over the wings and toss until evenly coated.
- Serve: Serve immediately with blue cheese dip, celery sticks, and carrot sticks for dipping. Don't forget to add plates for the delicious buffalo wings.
Notes
Nutrition information will vary based on ingredient choices and serving size.
For extra crispy wings, broil for the last few minutes, watching closely. Adjust cayenne pepper to your spice preference.