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Juicy, golden-brown buffalo wings served on a black plate with a creamy dipping sauce and fresh parsley garnish.

How to Make Buffalo Wings Like a Pro in Under 30 Minutes

Learn how to make crispy and flavorful buffalo wings at home in just 30 minutes. This step-by-step guide covers everything from preparing chicken wings to making the perfect buffalo sauce. Discover cooking methods like frying, baking, or air frying, and get tips for adjusting spice levels, storing leftovers, and pairing with dips and sides. Perfect for parties, game days, or quick meals!
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: lunch
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

The Best Chicken Wingsto Use
  • 2 pounds of chicken wings fresh or frozen, thawed if frozen
Must-Have Ingredientsfor Buffalo Sauce
  • 1/2 cup hot sauce e.g., Frank's RedHot Sauce
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter melted
  • 1 tablespoon white vinegar
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Ingredientsfor Extra Flavor
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 tablespoon honey for a bit of sweetness

Method
 

Preparing the ChickenWings
  1. Wash the chicken wings under cold water and dry them with paper towels, applying gentle pats.
  2. If not pre-cut, use a sharp knife to separate the wings into drumettes and flats.
  3. Season the wings with pepper, salt, and optional spices like garlic powder or paprika.
Cooking Methods
  1. Frying: Heat oil in a deep pan or fryer to 375°F (190°C). Fry wings in small batches for 8-10 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
  2. Baking: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Put the wings on a wire rack over a baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
  3. Air-frying: Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the wings in a single layer. Cook for 20 minutes. You have to shake the basket while the wings are cooking.
Making the Perfect Buffalo Sauce
  1. In a small saucepan, melt 1/4 cup of butter over low heat.
  2. Add 1/2 cup of hot sauce and a tablespoon of white vinegar. Stir well.
  3. Adjust the flavor with a pinch of garlic powder or honey if desired. Keep the sauce warm.
Coating and Serving the Wings
  1. Put the wings in a large mixing bowl after they are cooked.
  2. Pour the warm buffalo sauce over the wings. Toss until evenly coated.
  3. Serve immediately with celery sticks and your choice of ranch or blue cheese dressing.