There’s nothing quite like the aroma of sizzling chicken wings wafting through the kitchen; it stirs up excitement for any gathering. Recently, while cranking up my favorite playlist and prepping for a game night, I found myself craving something crispy and full of flavor. That’s when I whipped up a batch of Crispy Ranch Chicken Wings with Spicy Buffalo Sauce. Coated in savory ranch seasoning, these wings are then tossed in a bold, fiery sauce that brings a delightful kick to each mouthful.
Whether you’re hosting friends for the big game, or simply seeking a delicious late-night snack, these wings are sure to become your go-to appetizer. They promise that satisfying crunch with a zesty kick, making it nearly impossible to stop at just one. Let’s dive into this easy recipe that’s sure to impress your taste buds and your guests!
Why Love These Ranch Wings & Buffalo Sauce?
Ultimate Flavor Fusion: These wings combine the savory taste of ranch with the spiciness of Buffalo sauce for a bold bite.
Crispy Crunch Factor: Coating with cornstarch and baking powder guarantees an unbeatable crunch every single time.
Crowd-Pleasing Appetizer: Perfect for parties or game nights, these wings have a universal appeal, leaving everyone wanting more.
Versatile Delight: Easily customize with different seasonings or baking methods to create your own delicious twist.
Quick & Easy Prep: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have these tasty wings ready in no time, making them a go-to for any occasion!
Ranch Wings & Buffalo Sauce Ingredients
For the Crispy Coating
• Cornstarch – Adds crunch to the wings, yielding that perfect crispy texture.
• Baking Powder – Helps achieve an extra crispy finish during frying.
• Kosher Salt – Enhances the overall flavor; use table salt if you’re in a pinch.
• Freshly Ground Black Pepper – Provides warmth and depth; pre-ground works too.
• Hot Paprika – Adds subtle heat and color, but cayenne pepper can give you an extra kick.
• Ranch Seasoning Mix (1 oz) – Imparts the delicious ranch flavor to the wings; feel free to substitute with homemade ranch seasoning.
For the Chicken Wings
• Chicken Wingettes (3 lbs) – The star protein of the recipe; whole wings can work too, just cut and discard the tips.
• Vegetable Oil (for frying) – Essential for frying, achieving that desired crispiness; canola or peanut oil can be used as alternatives.
For the Spicy Buffalo Sauce
• Hot Pepper Sauce (1/2 cup, e.g., Frank’s RedHot) – For that classic spicy Buffalo flavor; any chili sauce can substitute.
• Unsalted Butter (6 Tbsp) – Adds richness; use salted if that’s what you have, but reduce added salt accordingly.
• Distilled White Vinegar (1 Tbsp) – Balances the flavors in the sauce; apple cider vinegar serves as a good substitute.
• Worcestershire Sauce (2 tsp) – Delivers deep umami flavor; can be omitted if desired.
• Cajun Seasoning (1/2 tsp) – Enhances the flavor complexity; use creole seasoning or skip if necessary.
Prepare yourself for an epic flavor adventure when you make these Ranch Wings & Buffalo Sauce!
How to Make Ranch Wings & Buffalo Sauce
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Prepare the Wings: In a large bowl, mix cornstarch, baking powder, kosher salt, black pepper, hot paprika, and half of the ranch seasoning. Toss the chicken wingettes in this mixture until all are well-coated.
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Refrigerate for Crispiness: Place the coated wings on a rack, and refrigerate them uncovered for at least 1 hour, or overnight. This helps draw out moisture for that extra crispy texture.
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Heat the Oil: In a deep fryer or heavy pot, preheat vegetable oil to 375°F (190°C). Use a thermometer to ensure accuracy, as the right temperature is crucial for that perfect fry.
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Fry the Wings: Carefully add wings in batches to the hot oil, frying until they reach a beautiful golden brown and crispy texture, about 8-10 minutes. Keep a close eye while they fry!
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Prepare the Buffalo Sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine hot pepper sauce, butter, vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and Cajun seasoning. Stir until the butter melts and the sauce is thoroughly mixed.
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Toss in Sauce: Remove the fried wings from the oil and let them drain briefly on paper towels. Toss them in the warm Buffalo sauce until they are evenly coated.
Optional: Serve with celery sticks and your favorite ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Storage Tips for Ranch Wings & Buffalo Sauce
- Room Temperature: Do not leave cooked wings at room temperature for more than 2 hours to ensure food safety; any longer can lead to bacterial growth.
- Fridge: Store leftover ranch wings in an airtight container for up to 4 days. This helps maintain their flavor and texture.
- Freezer: For longer storage, wrap ranch wings tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil, freezing for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheating: Reheat wings in an oven or air fryer at 375°F until warmed through, which helps retain their delicious crispiness after being stored.
What to Serve with Ranch Wings & Buffalo Sauce?
Elevate your game day or family gathering with delightful sides that perfectly complement the bold flavors of these crispy wings.
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Celery Sticks: Crunchy and refreshing, celery sticks offer a cool bite that balances the spice of the wings, making them a classic pairing.
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Carrot Sticks: Sweet and crisp, carrot sticks add a vibrant color and natural sweetness, offering a great contrast to the savory and spicy flavors.
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Homemade Ranch Dressing: Creamy and herbaceous, this dressing not only serves as a dipping sauce but also enhances the ranch flavor of the wings.
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Blue Cheese Crumbles: For an added touch of richness, sprinkle some blue cheese crumbles on your wings, offering a tangy note that pairs perfectly with Buffalo sauce.
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Potato Wedges: Crispy, fluffy potato wedges coated in herbs make for a comforting side that complements the crunch of the wings.
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Beer: A cold craft beer or lager brings out the savory flavors of the wings and creates a perfect match for a fun, festive atmosphere.
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Chocolate Chip Cookies: Round out your savory feast with warm, gooey chocolate chip cookies for a sweet finish that everyone will love.
Ranch Wings & Buffalo Sauce Variations
Feel free to get creative with these ideas to elevate your wing experience!
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Baked Version: For a healthier twist, bake wings at 425°F for 40-45 minutes instead of frying; they’ll turn out crispy and delicious.
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Different Seasonings: Switch things up with lemon pepper or garlic herb seasoning for a fresh flavor profile that’s equally mouthwatering.
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Spicy Garlic: Add minced garlic or garlic powder to your Buffalo sauce for an extra layer of flavor that garlic lovers will adore.
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Sweet Heat: Mix in a tablespoon of honey or brown sugar to your Buffalo sauce to create a sweet and spicy balance that will have everyone begging for more.
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Smoky Flavor: Incorporate smoked paprika into the spice blend for a smoky essence that pairs beautifully with the ranch and Buffalo sauce combo.
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Vegan Option: Swap the chicken wingettes for cauliflower florets for a plant-based alternative; simply follow the same coating and baking instructions for crispy results.
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Tequila Lime Marinade: Marinate the wings in tequila and fresh lime juice for an exciting twang before coating, infusing an unexpected burst of flavor that brightens the dish.
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Herb-Infused Oil: Use herb-infused olive oil for frying to introduce fragrant and refreshing notes to your wings, making them a unique crowd-pleaser!
Make Ahead Options
These Crispy Ranch Wings & Buffalo Sauce are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the wings’ coating (cornstarch, baking powder, and seasonings) and toss the wingettes in advance, keeping them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just be sure to refrigerate them uncovered to draw out moisture and ensure maximum crispiness during frying. For the sauce, you can mix the hot pepper sauce, butter, vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and Cajun seasoning ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce on the stove while frying the wings until they’re golden brown and toss them together for quick, crowd-pleasing results!
Expert Tips for Ranch Wings & Buffalo Sauce
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Crispy Perfection: Ensure wings are fully dried before frying. Pat them dry again after refrigeration if necessary to avoid excess moisture.
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Safety First: When adding wings to the hot oil, do so slowly to prevent splattering and ensure safe frying.
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Adjust Spice Levels: Customize your Buffalo sauce by tweaking the amount of hot pepper sauce to suit your taste—whether you prefer a mild or fiery experience!
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Batch Cooking: Fry wings in small batches to avoid overcrowding the pot, which helps maintain the oil temperature for that ideal crispy texture.
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Reheating Tips: To enjoy leftover Ranch Wings, reheat them in an oven or air fryer at 375°F until heated thoroughly for restored crispiness.
Ranch Wings & Buffalo Sauce Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best chicken wings for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting chicken wings, look for wingettes that are plump, with a nice even color and no dark spots. The skin should look fresh and not dried out. If you can, buy organic or free-range wings for better flavor and health benefits.
What’s the best way to store leftover ranch wings?
To keep your leftover ranch wings delicious, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to 4 days. If you’re ready to savor them again, simply reheat in an oven or air fryer at 375°F until they’re heated through and crispy again.
Can I freeze ranch wings?
Yes, indeed! To freeze your ranch wings, first let them cool completely. Then, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and follow up with a layer of aluminum foil. This method will keep your wings fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
What should I do if my wings aren’t crispy enough?
If your wings come out less crispy than desired, there are a few things to check. First, ensure they were completely dry before frying—moisture is the enemy of crispiness! If you’re air frying or using the oven, make sure they’re spread out on the tray to allow air to circulate. Also, consider frying in small batches to maintain oil temperature.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Great question! These ranch wings can be adjusted for various dietary needs. If someone has a soy allergy, check your hot pepper sauce as many brands can include soy. For gluten-free options, use a gluten-free ranch seasoning. Additionally, remember that the wings are for human consumption, so keep them away from pets, particularly due to certain seasonings that can be harmful.
Can I use a different sauce for the wings?
Very much! Feel free to get creative! If Buffalo sauce isn’t your thing, try tossing the wings in barbecue sauce, honey garlic sauce, or even a teriyaki glaze for a different flavor profile. The beauty of ranch wings is that they’re versatile and can complement many sauces beautifully.
Crispy Ranch Wings & Buffalo Sauce for Epic Game Day Snacks
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large bowl, mix cornstarch, baking powder, kosher salt, black pepper, hot paprika, and half of the ranch seasoning. Toss the chicken wingettes in this mixture until all are well-coated.
- Place the coated wings on a rack, and refrigerate them uncovered for at least 1 hour, or overnight.
- In a deep fryer or heavy pot, preheat vegetable oil to 375°F (190°C).
- Carefully add wings in batches to the hot oil, frying until they reach a beautiful golden brown and crispy texture, about 8-10 minutes.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, combine hot pepper sauce, butter, vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and Cajun seasoning. Stir until the butter melts and the sauce is thoroughly mixed.
- Remove the fried wings from the oil and let them drain briefly on paper towels. Toss them in the warm Buffalo sauce until they are evenly coated.