7 Steps to the Best Franks Hot Sauce Chicken Wings Recipe (Crispy & Juicy)

Buffalo wings have become a global obsession, but the original flavor traces back to a single sauce: Frank’s RedHot. If you’re looking for the ultimate Franks Hot Sauce chicken wings recipe, this guide covers everything. We’ll walk through ingredients, cooking methods, flavor variations, tips for crispiness, storage, nutrition, and FAQs. By the end, you’ll know how to make wings that rival your favorite sports bar—crispy, juicy, and dripping with tangy heat.

The Origin of Buffalo Wings and Frank’s RedHot

Buffalo wings were first served in 1964 at the Anchor Bar in Buffalo, New York. The first Franks Hot Sauce chicken wings recipe was a mix of Frank’s RedHot sauce and melted butter, delivering the perfect balance of spice and flavor. That simple combo turned chicken wings into a culinary legend.

Why Frank’s remains unbeatable:

• Balanced heat that isn’t overwhelming.
• Versatile—pairs with dips, fries, and sliders.
• Authentic—used in the very first Buffalo wings recipe.

Ingredients for the Franks Hot Sauce Chicken Wings Recipe

Essential Ingredients

• 2 lbs (1 kg) chicken wings, split into flats and drumettes.
• ½ cup Frank’s RedHot Original Sauce.
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter.
• 1 tsp garlic powder.
• ½ tsp onion powder.
• Salt and pepper to taste.

For Extra Crispiness

• 2 tbsp baking powder.
• 1 tbsp cornstarch.
• Olive oil spray (for oven or air fryer).

Optional Flavor Boosters

• Honey or brown sugar (for sweet heat).
• Cayenne pepper (for extra spice).
• Smoked paprika (for smoky depth).

Step-by-Step Franks Hot Sauce Chicken Wings Recipe

Step 1 – Prepare the Chicken

Pat wings completely dry with paper towels. Moisture is the enemy of crispy chicken.

Step 2 – Season the Wings

Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. For maximum crunch in this Franks Hot Sauce chicken wings recipe, coat lightly with baking powder and cornstarch.

Step 3 – Choose Your Cooking Method

You can deep-fry, oven-bake, or air fry. Each delivers different results.

Step 4 – Cook the Wings

• Fry: 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes.
• Oven: 425°F (220°C) for 45–50 minutes.
• Air Fryer: 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes.

Step 5 – Make the Buffalo Sauce

Melt butter over low heat, then whisk in Frank’s RedHot sauce until smooth. This is the heart of the Franks Hot Sauce chicken wings recipe.

Step 6 – Toss the Wings

While hot, toss wings in the Buffalo sauce until coated.

Step 7 – Serve

Serve with celery sticks, carrot sticks, and blue cheese dip for the authentic Buffalo experience.

Flavor Variations of the Franks Hot Sauce Chicken Wings Recipe

Mild Buffalo Wings

Add more butter for a softer, mellow heat.

Sweet and Spicy Wings

Blend in honey or maple syrup for sticky sweetness.

Garlic Parmesan Buffalo Wings

Toss sauced wings with parmesan and garlic powder.

Spicy BBQ Buffalo Wings

Mix Frank’s RedHot with barbecue sauce for smoky heat.

Tips for Perfect Crispy Wings

• Dry wings thoroughly—wet wings steam instead of crisp.
• Don’t overcrowd the tray; wings need airflow.
• Use baking powder, not baking soda.
• Double fry for restaurant-quality crunch.
• Always toss in sauce last to avoid soggy wings.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Using frozen wings without thawing properly.
• Adding sauce too early before serving.
• Using baking soda instead of baking powder.
• Skipping rest time—wings crisp more if rested 5 minutes before saucing.

Serving Suggestions

• Classic: Celery and blue cheese dip.
• Party platter: Combine Buffalo, BBQ, and honey mustard wings.
• Healthy: Pair wings with roasted veggies or salad.
• Game night: Serve with nachos, fries, or sliders.

Storage and Reheating

Refrigeration

Keep wings in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Freezing

Freeze unsauced wings up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Oven: 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes.
• Air fryer: 400°F (200°C) for 5–7 minutes.
• Avoid microwaving—it softens the skin.

Nutrition Facts (Approx. per 4 wings)

• Calories: 250
• Protein: 18g
• Fat: 16g
• Carbs: 3g
• Sodium: 680mg

FAQs About the Franks Hot Sauce Chicken Wings Recipe

Can I make wings without frying?

Yes, this Franks Hot Sauce chicken wings recipe works perfectly in the oven or air fryer.

Which Frank’s sauce is best for wings?

Frank’s Original is classic, but Xtra Hot or Sweet Chili offer exciting twists.

How do I get extra crispy wings in the oven?

Use baking powder, bake on a wire rack, and flip halfway.

Can I make them gluten-free?

Yes, just replace cornstarch with arrowroot or potato starch.

Can I prepare wings ahead of time?

Yes, cook them, refrigerate, then reheat before tossing in sauce.

What dips go best with Buffalo wings?

Blue cheese is traditional, ranch is popular, garlic aioli works too.

What makes the Franks Hot Sauce chicken wings recipe unique?

It’s the original Buffalo wing flavor—simple, balanced, and authentic.

Are Buffalo wings keto-friendly?

Yes, just avoid adding sugar or honey to the sauce.

Final Thoughts

The Franks Hot Sauce chicken wings recipe is legendary because it’s simple yet versatile. Whether fried, baked, or air-fried, the secret is dry wings, the right cooking method, and that iconic Frank’s Buffalo sauce. With this guide, you’ll easily recreate the crispy, juicy wings that made Buffalo famous.

Next time it’s game night or a party, skip takeout—make this authentic Franks Hot Sauce chicken wings recipe at home and impress everyone.