Baked Hot Wings

Baked Hot Wings are the ultimate game day treat, perfect for gatherings, parties, or simply indulging on a cozy night in. With the right balance of heat and flavor, these wings bring the crunch and zest that everyone craves. The best part? You can whip them up in your own kitchen with minimal fuss. These baked wings are crispy, flavorful, and sure to impress your family and friends!

Why It’s My Go-To

Baked Hot Wings have become my go-to recipe for several reasons. First, they are incredibly easy to make with just a handful of ingredients you probably already have on hand. Second, baking instead of frying means I can enjoy the crispy texture without the extra oil and mess. Lastly, the combination of hot sauce and molasses gives these wings a unique flavor profile that has everyone coming back for more. It’s the perfect blend of spicy, sweet, and savory that you simply can’t resist!

The Ingredient Lineup

To make these delicious Baked Hot Wings, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 4 lbs chicken wings – Choose fresh or frozen wings; just ensure they are thoroughly thawed if using frozen.
• 2 tablespoons baking powder – This is key to achieving that ultra-crispy texture.
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper – For a little kick in the seasoning.
• 1 cup hot sauce – I recommend using Frank’s for a classic flavor.
• 2 tablespoons molasses – This adds a touch of sweetness to balance the heat.
• 4 tablespoons unsalted or salted butter – Butter adds richness to the sauce.

Essential Tools for Success

Make sure you have these tools ready before starting your Baked Hot Wings:

• Baking sheet – A large, rimmed baking sheet is ideal for catching drips.
• Wire rack – Elevates the wings for even cooking and crispiness.
• Mixing bowl – For combining your wings with the seasoning and sauce.
• Measuring spoons – Accurate measurements are vital for the perfect flavor.
• Kitchen tongs – These will help you flip and transfer the wings easily.

Make Baked Hot Wings: A Simple Method

Follow this simple method to create your Baked Hot Wings:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature is crucial for achieving crispy wings.

Step 2: Prepare the Wings

In a large mixing bowl, combine the chicken wings, baking powder, and ground black pepper. Toss until the wings are evenly coated. The baking powder is the secret ingredient here, ensuring that your wings turn out crispy.

Step 3: Arrange on Baking Sheet

Place a wire rack on top of a rimmed baking sheet. This setup allows air to circulate around the wings, enhancing their crispiness. Lay the coated wings in a single layer on the rack, making sure they are not touching.

Step 4: Bake the Wings

Bake the wings in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, flipping them halfway through. You want them golden brown and crispy!

Step 5: Make the Sauce

While the wings are baking, melt the butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Once melted, add the hot sauce and molasses, stirring until well combined. Allow the sauce to simmer for a few minutes for the flavors to meld.

Step 6: Toss and Serve

Once the wings are done baking, remove them from the oven. Place them in a large bowl and drizzle the hot sauce mixture over the wings. Toss gently to coat all the wings evenly. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce and veggies on the side!

Tailor It to Your Diet

Baked Hot Wings can easily be adjusted to fit various dietary preferences:

• Gluten-Free: Ensure that your hot sauce and baking powder are gluten-free.
• Low-Carb: You can reduce or eliminate the molasses for a lower-carb version.
• Spicy Variation: Add extra cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes for more heat.
• Mild Option: Use a milder hot sauce or mix in some BBQ sauce for a sweeter flavor.

Little Things that Matter

To elevate your Baked Hot Wings, consider these tips:

• Pat the wings dry with paper towels before coating them to ensure maximum crispiness.
• Experiment with different hot sauces for a unique flavor each time.
• Let the wings rest for a few minutes after baking before tossing them in the sauce; this helps the sauce stick better.
• Serve with a side of cooling ranch or blue cheese dressing to balance the heat.

Storing Tips & Timelines

If you have leftovers (which is unlikely!), here’s how to store them:

• Refrigerate: Place wings in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Reheat: For best results, reheat wings in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
• Freezing: You can freeze cooked wings for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

Questions People Ask

Can I use frozen wings for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen wings. Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before coating with baking powder and seasoning.

What can I serve with Baked Hot Wings?

Baked Hot Wings pair well with celery sticks, carrot sticks, and a side of ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping.

Can I make the wings ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake the wings ahead of time. Just store them in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.

How can I make the wings extra crispy?

To achieve extra crispy wings, ensure they are well-dried before applying the baking powder, and consider broiling them for a few minutes at the end of the cooking time for an added crunch.

Looking for more delicious recipes to try? Check these out:

Save & Share

If you enjoyed these Baked Hot Wings, don’t forget to save the recipe and share it with your friends! These wings are perfect for any occasion, and once your friends taste them, they’ll be asking for the recipe themselves.

Baked Hot Wings are a delicious and straightforward dish that brings joy to any table. With the right ingredients and method, you can create a dish that’s not only satisfying but also crowd-pleasing. Whether for game day or a cozy night in, these wings will surely become a favorite in your home. Enjoy!