Crispy Buffalo Chicken Love Wings

Name: Crispy Buffalo Chicken Love Wings
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 lbs chicken wings; 1 cup buttermilk; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; 1/2 tsp paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 cup unsalted butter; 1/2 cup hot sauce (like Frank's RedHot); 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

When I crave a finger-licking appetizer that brings excitement to any gathering, I turn to my Crispy Buffalo Chicken Love Wings. The combination of juicy chicken, a spicy yet buttery sauce, and a crispy coating creates a dish impossible to resist. I love serving these wings fresh out of the oven, where each bite delivers a beautiful crunch paired with that classic buffalo flavor. Whether it's game day or a casual get-together, these wings always steal the show, and the best part? They are surprisingly easy to make at home in just a few simple steps!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-17T16:32:28.686Z

When I first attempted to make buffalo wings at home, I was astounded at how simple it was to achieve that restaurant-style flavor. The key is in the soaking technique I learned—by soaking the chicken in buttermilk, it becomes incredibly tender and flavorful. I also experimented with different oven temperatures to get the ideal balance of crispiness without drying out the meat, and I found the sweet spot at 425°F.

Another essential detail is the sauce: I combine melted butter with hot sauce for the perfect level of heat. I like to toss the wings immediately after they’re cooked so that every bite is coated in spicy goodness, and I never skip the garnish of fresh parsley for a pop of color. It's a game changer that takes these wings to a whole new level!

        Why You'll Love These Wings
        Crispy exterior with a tender, juicy interior
Perfectly balanced heat that everyone will enjoy
Easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion

      

The Secret to Perfectly Crispy Wings

Achieving the perfect balance between crispy skin and juicy meat is key to these wings. The buttermilk marinade not only infuses flavor but also tenderizes the chicken. The acidity in buttermilk helps break down the proteins, ensuring that the wings stay moist even as they crisp up in the oven. Marinating for at least 30 minutes is essential; if you can let them sit for a few hours or overnight, that will yield even better results.

Coating the wings evenly in the flour mixture contributes significantly to their crispy exterior. I recommend using a wire rack on top of the baking sheet; this allows air to circulate around the wings, cooking them evenly and preventing sogginess. If you find the coating is falling off, make sure to press the wings into the flour mix firmly to ensure it adheres well.

Customizing Your Sauce

The beauty of this buffalo sauce recipe lies in its versatility. While Frank's RedHot is a classic choice for that authentic buffalo flavor, feel free to experiment with other hot sauces to find your perfect heat profile. Adding a tablespoon of honey can introduce a subtle sweetness that balances the spicy, tangy elements, making it appealing to a wider audience. Adjust the cayenne pepper for extra heat, but remember, a little goes a long way!

If you’re looking for a vegan twist, substitute the unsalted butter with plant-based butter and use a vegan hot sauce. This alteration still preserves the rich flavor while catering to different dietary choices. Just keep an eye on the consistency of the sauce; it should remain glossy and smooth. If it thickens too much, a splash of water can help return it to the desired texture.

Ingredients for Crispy Buffalo Chicken Love Wings

For the Wings

2 lbs chicken wings
1 cup buttermilk
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp paprika
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Buffalo Sauce

1/2 cup unsalted butter
1/2 cup hot sauce (like Frank's RedHot)
1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)

Serve these wings hot with celery sticks and your favorite dipping sauce!

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

In a large bowl, combine the chicken wings and buttermilk. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes in the fridge.

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with aluminum foil. Place a wire rack over the baking sheet.

Coat the Wings

Mix the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper in a separate bowl. Remove the wings from the buttermilk and dredge them in the flour mixture until well coated.

Bake the Wings

Arrange the coated wings in a single layer on the wire rack. Bake for 30 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.

Prepare the Sauce

In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Stir in the hot sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper until well combined.

Toss in Sauce

Remove wings from the oven and toss them in the buffalo sauce until completely coated.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve immediately with celery sticks and your favorite dipping sauce.

These wings are best enjoyed right out of the oven!

Pro Tips

For extra crispiness, let the wings sit on the rack for a few minutes before tossing them in sauce. You can also experiment with different hot sauces for varying levels of heat.

Storing and Reheating

Once you've enjoyed your wings, any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. When you're ready to enjoy them again, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the wings in a single layer on a baking sheet and reheat for about 15-20 minutes or until they are heated through and the skin is crispy again. Avoid microwaving, as this can lead to a soggy texture.

If you want to make these ahead of time, consider preparing the wings through the coating step and storing them, uncooked, in a freezer bag for up to three months. When you're ready to cook, there's no need to thaw; just add a few extra minutes to the baking time while they still come out perfectly crispy!

Serving Suggestions

For a fun and satisfying presentation, serve your Crispy Buffalo Chicken Love Wings with fresh celery and carrot sticks on the side. The crunch of the vegetables adds a refreshing contrast to the spicy wings. To elevate your platter, include various dipping sauces like blue cheese or ranch, which can help mitigate the heat for those who prefer milder flavors.

If you’re feeling adventurous, consider pairing the wings with unique sides, such as loaded potato skins or cheesy garlic bread. This not only enhances the snacking experience but also makes for a hearty meal all in one go. Make sure to have plenty of napkins on hand; these wings are a deliciously messy treat!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken wings?

Yes, but be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before marinating.

→ How can I make these wings ahead of time?

You can marinate the wings a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator until you're ready to cook them.

→ What can I serve with these wings?

Celery sticks, carrot sticks, and a cool ranch or blue cheese dressing pair perfectly with spicy wings.

→ Can I bake them without a wire rack?

Yes, but using a wire rack allows the hot air to circulate, giving you a crispier result.