---
What Are Twice Baked Buffalo Wings?
Definition and Origins
Twice baked buffalo wings are a delicious adaptation of traditional buffalo wings. The process involves baking the wings twice: the first bake cooks the chicken and renders excess fat, while the second bake crisps up the skin and enhances flavor absorption. The wings are then tossed in buffalo sauce, which is a spicy, tangy mixture typically made from hot sauce and butter. This method results in wings that are both tender and crispy, with an extra layer of flavor.
While buffalo wings originated in Buffalo, New York, the twice baked variation is a modern take that adds extra texture and flavor complexity. It’s a popular choice among chefs and home cooks alike who want to elevate their usual wing game.
---
Why Choose Twice Baked Buffalo Wings?
Advantages Over Traditional Buffalo Wings
- Enhanced Crispiness: The double baking process creates a crunchier exterior, similar to fried wings but without the deep-frying.
- Deeper Flavor Penetration: Baking twice allows the flavors from the sauce and seasonings to infuse more thoroughly.
- Healthier Alternative: Oven baking reduces the need for excessive oil, making this a slightly healthier option compared to deep-fried wings.
- Versatility: You can customize the flavor profile by adjusting the sauce ingredients or adding toppings.
Perfect for Various Occasions
Twice baked buffalo wings are versatile enough for casual gatherings, game days, parties, or even as a tasty appetizer for a dinner party.
---
How to Make Twice Baked Buffalo Wings
Ingredients Needed
To prepare delicious twice baked buffalo wings, gather the following ingredients:
- 2 lbs chicken wings (drumettes and flats)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ½ cup buffalo hot sauce (like Frank’s RedHot)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Optional toppings: chopped celery, blue cheese dressing, ranch dressing, chopped green onions
Preparation Steps
Follow these detailed steps to achieve perfect twice baked buffalo wings:
- Preheat your oven: Set to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare the wings: Pat the chicken wings dry with paper towels. In a small bowl, mix salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Toss the wings with olive oil and seasoning mixture until evenly coated.
- Bake the first round: Arrange wings in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a wire rack. Bake for 35-40 minutes, flipping halfway through, until cooked through and skin begins to crisp.
- Cool and season again (optional): For extra flavor, you can toss the wings with a little additional seasoning or baking powder before the second bake to enhance crispiness.
- Second bake: Return wings to the oven for an additional 10-15 minutes to deepen crispiness.
- Prepare buffalo sauce: While wings are baking, melt butter in a saucepan over low heat. Add buffalo hot sauce and stir until combined. Adjust heat level by adding more hot sauce if desired.
- Toss wings in buffalo sauce: Once wings are baked and crispy, transfer them to a large bowl. Pour buffalo sauce over the wings and toss until evenly coated.
- Serve: Garnish with chopped celery, green onions, and serve with blue cheese or ranch dressing for dipping.
---
Tips for the Perfect Twice Baked Buffalo Wings
Choosing the Right Wings
- Opt for fresh or properly thawed frozen chicken wings.
- Separate drumettes and flats for uniform cooking.
- Pat wings dry to ensure crispy skin after baking.
Achieving Crispy Skin
- Use baking powder combined with seasonings to promote browning and crispiness.
- Bake on a wire rack to allow hot air circulation around wings.
- Avoid overcrowding the baking sheet.
Flavor Variations
- Spicy Garlic: Add minced garlic and cayenne pepper to the buffalo sauce.
- Sweet and Spicy: Mix honey or maple syrup into the buffalo sauce.
- Smoky: Incorporate smoked paprika or chipotle hot sauce.
- Herb-Infused: Add fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro after tossing with sauce.
---
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Ideal Accompaniments
- Celery sticks and carrot sticks
- Blue cheese dressing
- Ranch dressing
- Extra buffalo sauce for dipping
- Fresh lemon wedges for a citrusy kick
Perfect Beverage Pairings
- Cold light beers such as lagers or pilsners
- Crisp ciders
- Sparkling water with lemon
- Classic cocktails like a Margarita or Bloody Mary
Presentation Tips
- Arrange wings on a platter lined with lettuce or parchment paper.
- Garnish with chopped green onions or parsley for color.
- Serve sauces in small bowls for dipping.
---
Variations of Twice Baked Buffalo Wings
Vegetarian Option
- Use cauliflower florets or plant-based chicken alternatives.
- Follow the same baking and sauce-tossing process.
Spicy and Creamy
- Add a dollop of blue cheese or ranch dressing after tossing.
- Mix in cream cheese into the buffalo sauce for richness.
Global Flavors
- Incorporate Asian-inspired ingredients like soy sauce and sesame oil.
- Use spicy harissa or sriracha for different heat profiles.
---
Conclusion
Twice baked buffalo wings are a culinary upgrade to the classic favorite, offering an unbeatable combination of crispy texture and fiery flavor. Their double baking process ensures a satisfying crunch that rivals fried wings, while the buffalo sauce adds a tangy, spicy kick. Whether you're hosting a party, watching the game, or simply craving something savory, these wings are sure to impress. With endless flavor variations and serving options, mastering the art of twice baked buffalo wings can elevate your appetizer repertoire and delight your guests every time.
Prepare to enjoy this crowd-pleasing dish that balances heat, crunch, and flavor in every bite. Once you try making twice baked buffalo wings at home, you'll never go back to ordinary wings again!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are twice baked buffalo wings?
Twice baked buffalo wings are chicken wings that are baked twice to achieve extra crispiness and flavor, typically with a buffalo sauce coating in the second baking.
How do you make twice baked buffalo wings?
First, bake the wings until cooked through, then toss them in buffalo sauce, bake again for crispiness, and optionally broil for extra crunch before serving.
What ingredients are needed for twice baked buffalo wings?
Main ingredients include chicken wings, buffalo sauce (hot sauce, butter), baking powder, seasonings, and optional ingredients like blue cheese or ranch dressing for dipping.
Can I prepare twice baked buffalo wings ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake the wings partially or fully in advance, store them in the refrigerator, and reheat in the oven for a crispy finish before serving.
What makes twice baked buffalo wings healthier?
Using baking instead of frying reduces oil, and controlling the amount of sauce and seasoning can make them a healthier snack option.
Are twice baked buffalo wings spicy?
They can be spicy depending on the buffalo sauce used; you can adjust the heat level by choosing milder or hotter sauces according to your preference.
What are some tips for achieving crispy twice baked buffalo wings?
Use baking powder on the wings before the first bake, ensure the oven is hot enough, and bake or broil at high heat during the second bake for maximum crispiness.
Can I make vegetarian or vegan twice baked buffalo wings?
Yes, you can substitute chicken with cauliflower or plant-based wings and use vegan buffalo sauce and vegan cheese for a plant-based version.
