Crispy Baked Buffalo Chicken Wings with Spice Rub

Name: Crispy Baked Buffalo Chicken Wings with Spice Rub
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 65 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 tsp paprika; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp onion powder; 3/4 tsp sea salt; 1/2 tsp pepper; 1/2 tbsp gluten-free baking powder; 1 kg chicken wings, about 16 wings; 1/2 cup buffalo sauce; 5 tbsp hot sauce such as Sriracha; 3 tbsp unsalted butter or ghee, melted; 2 tsp yacon syrup or 1 tsp blackstrap molasses

Prep: 15 minCook: 50 min4 servingsmediumAmerican

These buffalo wings achieve restaurant-quality crispiness through oven baking without deep frying. A savory spice blend with baking powder creates the perfect coating, while homemade buffalo sauce made with hot sauce, butter, and natural sweetener delivers authentic tangy heat. The wings emerge golden and crispy with tender meat inside, making them ideal for game day gatherings, casual dinners, or any time you crave bold buffalo flavor without the mess of frying.

Gluten-Free Nut-Free

Ingredients

4 servings

1 tsp paprika
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp onion powder(optional)
¾ tsp sea salt
½ tsp pepper
½ tbsp gluten-free baking powder
2 ¼ lb chicken wings, about 16 wings
½ cup buffalo sauce
5 tbsp hot sauce such as Sriracha
3 tbsp unsalted butter or ghee, melted
2 tsp yacon syrup or 1 tsp blackstrap molasses

Instructions

1
Preheat oven to 350°F fan assisted or 400°F conventional
2
Mix paprika, garlic powder, onion powder if using, salt, pepper, and baking powder in a bowl
3
Pat chicken wings dry with kitchen paper
4
Sprinkle spice mixture over wings and toss to coat evenly
5
Combine hot sauce, melted butter, and yacon syrup to make buffalo sauce
6
Add buffalo sauce to wings and mix until fully coated
7
Place wings on greaseproof paper lined baking tray
8
Bake for 45-50 minutes until crispy, turning once halfway through
9
For extra crispiness, broil for 2-3 minutes per side

Tips

Tip 1

Pat wings completely dry before seasoning to ensure maximum crispiness and better spice adhesion.

Tip 2

Use baking powder in the spice rub as it helps create a crispy exterior by drawing moisture from the skin.

Tip 3

Let wings rest at room temperature for 15 minutes before baking for more even cooking.

Good to Know

Storage

Refrigerate for up to 4 days in airtight container

Make Ahead

Wings can be coated with spices up to 24 hours ahead, add sauce just before baking

Serve With

Best served immediately while hot and crispy with ranch or blue cheese dressing

See pairing guide →

Common Mistakes

Watch

Pat wings completely dry to avoid soggy coating

Watch

Don't overcrowd baking tray to ensure even crisping

Watch

Turn wings once during baking to crisp both sides evenly

FAQ

Can I make these wings ahead of time?

You can season the wings up to 24 hours in advance, but add the buffalo sauce just before baking for best results. Cooked wings are best eaten fresh but can be reheated in a 200°C oven for 5-10 minutes.

What if I don't have baking powder?

Baking powder is crucial for crispy skin as it draws out moisture. Without it, the wings will still be tasty but less crispy. You can substitute with cornstarch mixed with salt in equal parts.

How long do leftover wings keep?

Store cooked wings in the refrigerator for up to 4 days in an airtight container. Reheat in the oven at 200°C for 8-10 minutes to restore some crispiness, avoid microwaving as it makes them soggy.