If you’re looking for a classic game day snack or a crowd-pleasing appetizer, these Hot Wings check every box. Picture golden, crispy chicken wings tossed in a buttery, fiery sauce with just the right touch of tang and sweetness — impossible to resist! Whether you’re making them for a party or just dinner at home, this recipe is both approachable and seriously delicious, giving you the flavor and zing of your favorite sports bar, right from your own oven. Get ready to dig in and make these Hot Wings your new go-to recipe!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Hot Wings lies in their simplicity — every ingredient counts, bringing its own punch to the party. With just a handful of staples and a quick homemade sauce, you’ll create wings that are crispy, juicy, and bursting with flavor.
- Chicken wings (2 pounds): The star of the show — look for fresh wings with skin for the crispiest bite.
- Vegetable oil (2 tablespoons): Helps the seasonings cling and the skin get outrageously crisp in the oven.
- Salt (1 teaspoon): Essential for making every bit of the wing taste savory and satisfying.
- Black pepper (1/2 teaspoon): Adds a subtle, sharp backbone to the seasoning blend.
- Garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon): Brings a hint of mellow, garlicky depth.
- Smoked paprika (1/2 teaspoon): Infuses smokiness and gorgeous color for that “just-off-the-grill” vibe.
- Hot sauce (1/2 cup): Classic Frank’s RedHot or your brand of choice sets the fiery, tangy tone for the wings.
- Unsalted butter, melted (4 tablespoons): Makes the sauce luscious and helps it coat each wing perfectly.
- Honey (1 tablespoon, optional): A touch of sweetness brings balance and a glossy finish — totally worth it!
- Celery sticks & ranch or blue cheese dressing: Traditional sides that add crunch, freshness, and creamy cool-down between bites.
How to Make Hot Wings
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Pan
Get things heating up by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with foil for easy cleanup and place a wire rack on top. This setup ensures the wings get airflow all around, making them extra crispy without deep frying.
Step 2: Dry and Season the Wings
Pat the chicken wings as dry as possible with paper towels — this is the secret to serious crispiness. Transfer the wings to a bowl, then toss with vegetable oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Each piece should be glistening and generously coated with seasoning.
Step 3: Bake the Wings
Arrange the wings on the wire rack in a single layer, leaving space between each one. Pop them in the oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, flipping halfway through so both sides get beautifully browned and crunchy. Trust your senses — you want them deeply golden and crisp to the touch!
Step 4: Make the Signature Hot Wings Sauce
While the wings bake, whisk together the hot sauce, melted butter, and honey (if using) in a large bowl. The honey rounds out the heat, but feel free to leave it out if you want your Hot Wings classic and spicy.
Step 5: Toss and Serve
As soon as the wings are out of the oven, transfer them straight into the bowl with the sauce. Toss to coat every nook and cranny, then serve immediately with celery sticks and your favorite ranch or blue cheese dressing for the ultimate Hot Wings experience.
How to Serve Hot Wings
Garnishes
Scatter a little extra chopped parsley or green onion over your Hot Wings for a dash of color and freshness. Don’t forget the classic sidekicks: plenty of crisp celery sticks and a big bowl of creamy dip for cooling things down after every spicy bite.
Side Dishes
Round out your meal with classic sides like crispy fries or onion rings, or go light with carrot sticks and a mixed green salad. The heat of Hot Wings always pairs well with something cool and crunchy.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn your Hot Wings into a fun platter for parties by serving them on a giant tray, surrounded by dipping sauces, pickled veggies, and spicy pickles. Or get playful and make Hot Wings sliders by tucking the sauced wings (bones removed!) into soft buns with slaw.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Have extras? Let your Hot Wings cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay tasty for up to three days, ready for a quick snack or next-day lunch.
Freezing
You can freeze Hot Wings for even longer storage. Layer the cooked and cooled wings in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep their flavor and texture for up to 2 months.
Reheating
To bring leftover Hot Wings back to life, reheat them in a 375°F (190°C) oven for about 10-12 minutes until hot and crispy. Avoid the microwave if you can, since it can make the skin a bit rubbery. A quick trip under the broiler at the end works wonders for restoring their crunch!
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken wings?
Absolutely, just be sure to thaw them completely and pat very dry before seasoning. This keeps the Hot Wings crispy even if you’re starting from frozen!
What’s the best hot sauce for Hot Wings?
Frank’s RedHot is the classic choice, but you can experiment with your favorites for different heat levels and flavor profiles. Go mild or wild — it’s your call!
Can I make these Hot Wings in an air fryer?
Yes, they’re fantastic in the air fryer! Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, shaking halfway through, until they’re sizzling and crisp.
How do I make my wings extra crispy?
Drying the wings well and baking on a rack are crucial for crispiness. If you love them ultra-crunchy, try tossing them in a little baking powder with the seasonings before baking.
Are Hot Wings gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as written, making it perfect for party guests with gluten sensitivities.
Final Thoughts
Once you try these Hot Wings, you’ll quickly see why they’re cherished by wing lovers everywhere. They’re remarkably easy, outrageously flavorful, and totally addictive. Whether it’s game day, a party, or just a craving that won’t quit, Hot Wings are sure to make any gathering more delicious. Give them a try — your taste buds will thank you!
Print
Hot Wings Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
These oven-baked hot wings are a game day favorite, featuring crispy chicken wings tossed in a spicy buffalo sauce. Perfect for snacking or as an appetizer with friends and family.
Ingredients
Chicken Wings:
- 2 pounds chicken wings
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
Sauce:
- 1/2 cup hot sauce (like Frank’s RedHot)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
Serving:
- Celery sticks
- Ranch or blue cheese dressing
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top.
- Prepare Chicken Wings: Pat the chicken wings dry. Toss with oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Arrange on the wire rack.
- Bake Wings: Bake for 40-45 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
- Make Sauce: Whisk hot sauce, melted butter, and honey in a bowl.
- Toss Wings: Once wings are cooked, toss them in the sauce.
- Serve: Serve hot with celery sticks and dressing.
Notes
- For extra crispy wings, pat dry before baking and use a wire rack.
- Air fryer option: Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 5-6 wings
- Calories: 370
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 940mg
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 140mg
