Buffalo Wings

Buffalo wings, a quintessential American bar snack, undergo a unique transformation when coated with baking powder and oven-baked. The traditional combination of chicken wings and a tangy buffalo sauce takes a detour from the deep fryer, creating a lighter and crispier version. The technique of coating the wings with baking powder, known as the Alton Brown method, alters the pH of the wing's surface, promoting crispiness during baking. This alternative cooking method not only reduces the oil content but also results in a deliciously crispy texture that pairs perfectly with the iconic spicy buffalo sauce. This approach showcases the adaptability of classic recipes in American cuisine, where innovative techniques elevate familiar flavors.

While the history of buffalo wings traces back to the Anchor Bar in Buffalo, New York, the oven-baked variation with baking powder represents a modern twist on the beloved classic. The technique aligns with contemporary culinary trends focused on healthier alternatives without compromising on taste. Baking powder-coated wings exemplify the evolving nature of food culture, where traditional recipes embrace innovation to meet changing preferences. Whether served at home or in restaurants, these oven-baked buffalo wings illustrate the dynamic relationship between culinary tradition and modern culinary techniques in American cuisine.

Prep Time: 10 min

Cook Time: 1 hour 20 min

Total Time: 1 hour 30 min

Yield: 4 servings

A plate of buffalo wings.

Ingredients

Wings

  • 4 lbs. chicken wings
  • 5 tsp. baking powder
  • ¾ tsp. kosher salt

Buffalo Sauce

  • ½ cup butter (1 stick)
  • ½ cup Frank's hot sauce
  • 1 Tbsp. brown sugar

Sides

  • Carrot sticks
  • Celery sticks
  • Blue cheese dressing

Instructions

Prep

  1. 1.
    Preheat oven to 250°F with one rack set high and one rack set low in the oven.
  2. 2.
    Line the baking sheet with aluminum foil and add baking rack.
  3. 3.
    Dry wings with paper towels and add to a large bowl.
  4. 4.
    Cover wings with salt and baking powder and toss to coat completely.
  5. 5.
    Position the coated wings skin side up on the baking sheet.

Bake

  1. 6.
    Place the sheet of wings on the top rack of the oven and bake for 30 minutes at 250°F to help remove excess moisture from the wings.
  2. 7.
    Move the sheet of wings to the top shelf of the oven and increase the oven temperature to 425°F.
  3. 8.
    Bake at 425°F for 40 minutes or until wings are browned and crispy.

Sauce

  1. 9.
    Melt butter in a small sauce pan.
  2. 10.
    Whisk in hot sauce and brown sugar.
  3. 11.
    Remove the wings to a large bowl, cover with sauce, and toss.
  4. 12.
    Reduce the oven temperature to 350°F and return the coated wings to the baking sheet.
  5. 13.
    Return the wings to the oven for 5-10 minutes until sauce thickens.
  6. 14.
    Serve along with carrots, celery, and blue cheese dressing.