Name: Lighter Buffalo Wings Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 9
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 lbs chicken wings; ½ cup Franks hot sauce; ¼ cup white vinegar; 2 tbsp oregano; 4 tsp paprika; 1 tbsp garlic powder; 1 tbsp chili powder; salt and fresh pepper; 2 Celery Stalks; 2 carrots; blue cheese dressing

Buffalo wings are a beloved classic, but they don't always have to be a guilty pleasure. This lighter buffalo wings recipe provides all the flavor with a fraction of the calories, making it perfect for any occasion. Get ready to indulge without the guilt.

Photos of Lighter Buffalo Wings Recipe

When preparing this recipe, you may need to visit the supermarket for a few key ingredients if they’re not already in your pantry. Specifically, Frank's hot sauce and blue cheese dressing might not be common staples in every household. Make sure you grab these while shopping to ensure you achieve the authentic buffalo flavor and the classic dipping experience.

Ingredients For Lighter Buffalo Wings Recipe

Chicken wings: The main protein component, essential for buffalo wings.

Frank's hot sauce: A classic choice for buffalo wings, providing the signature spicy kick.

White vinegar: Adds tanginess to the marinade, balancing the flavors.

Oregano: Offers a hint of earthiness and depth to the seasoning.

Paprika: Adds color and a subtle smoky flavor to the wings.

Garlic powder: Provides a concentrated garlic flavor, enhancing the overall taste.

Chili powder: Contributes extra heat and complexity to the seasoning mix.

Salt and fresh pepper: Basic seasoning staples to enhance all flavors.

Celery: A traditional and refreshing side for cooling down the heat from the wings.

Carrots: Another crunchy and cooling side, pairing perfectly with the wings.

Blue cheese dressing: The classic dipping sauce for buffalo wings, offering a creamy and tangy contrast.

One reader, Anthiathia Orellana says:

These lighter buffalo wings are fantastic! The marinade gives them incredible flavor, and broiling makes them perfectly crispy without the extra fat. Paired with fresh celery, carrots, and blue cheese dressing, they’re a hit at every gathering. A healthier twist on a classic favorite!

Anthiathia Orellana

Key Techniques for Making Lighter Buffalo Wings

How to broil: Explanation on setting the broiler to low and positioning the rack about 8 inches from the flame. How to marinate: Explanation on combining the chicken with the marinade ingredients and letting it sit for 30 minutes. How to heat sauce: Explanation on warming the remaining hot sauce while the chicken cooks.

How To Make Lighter Buffalo Wings

Craving for buffalo wings? Have a healthy version that’s low-fat and low-calorie. Enjoy light wings with hot sauce, celery, carrots, and blue cheese dip.

Preparation: 5 minutes

Cooking: 20 minutes

Marinate Time: 30 minutes

Total: 55 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

3lbschicken wings,about 18 pcs
½cupFranks hot sauce,plus 2 tbsp
¼cupwhite vinegar
2tbsporegano
4tsppaprika
1tbspgarlic powder
1tbspchili powder
salt and fresh pepper
2celery stalks,sliced into strips
2carrots,peeled and sliced into strips
blue cheese dressing,low-fat

Instructions

In a large bowl, combine chicken, 2 tablespoons of hot sauce, vinegar, oregano, paprika, garlic powder, chili powder salt, and pepper.
Mix well and let marinate for 30 minutes.
Place wings on a broiler rack and broil on low, about 8 inches from the flame for about 10 to 12 minutes on each side.
While chicken cooks, heat the remaining hot sauce until warm.
Toss the hot sauce with the chicken and arrange on a platter.
Serve with celery and carrot strips and blue cheese dressing or dipping. Enjoy!

Recipe Notes

Be careful not to burn the chicken wings when broiling as all ovens are different. Make sure it is cooked before removing.

Nutrition

Calories: 310.54kcal
Fat: 20.31g
Saturated Fat: 6.22g
Trans Fat: 0.11g
Monounsaturated Fat: 9.48g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 4.55g
Carbohydrates: 4.40g
Fiber: 1.75g
Sugar: 1.15g
Protein: 27.30g
Cholesterol: 167.83mg
Sodium: 501.97mg
Calcium: 45.44mg
Potassium: 437.14mg
Iron: 1.55mg
Vitamin A: 168.84µg
Vitamin C: 10.49mg

Helpful Technique for Perfecting Lighter Buffalo Wings

To ensure your chicken wings are extra crispy without deep frying, pat them dry with paper towels before marinating. This removes excess moisture, allowing the wings to crisp up better under the broiler.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Buffalo Wings

Marinate in advance: Prepare the chicken wings and marinate them the night before. This allows the flavors to penetrate deeper and saves you time on the day of cooking.

Use pre-cut veggies: Buy pre-cut celery and carrots to save time on chopping. This makes your prep work quicker and easier.

Broil multiple batches: If you have a large batch of wings, broil them in multiple batches to ensure even cooking and save time.

Heat sauce in microwave: Warm the remaining hot sauce in the microwave instead of on the stove to save a few minutes.

Substitute Ingredients For Lighter Buffalo Wings Recipe

chicken wings - Substitute with cauliflower florets: Cauliflower provides a similar texture and can be roasted to achieve a crispy exterior, making it a great vegetarian alternative.
franks hot sauce - Substitute with sriracha: Sriracha offers a similar heat level and tanginess, though it has a slightly different flavor profile.
white vinegar - Substitute with apple cider vinegar: Apple cider vinegar has a milder taste and adds a slight sweetness, which can balance the heat of the hot sauce.
oregano - Substitute with thyme: Thyme has a similar earthy flavor and can provide a comparable aromatic quality to the dish.
paprika - Substitute with smoked paprika: Smoked paprika adds a deeper, smoky flavor that can enhance the overall taste of the wings.
garlic powder - Substitute with fresh garlic: Fresh garlic offers a more robust and aromatic flavor, though it should be finely minced to distribute evenly.
chili powder - Substitute with cayenne pepper: Cayenne pepper provides a similar heat level but is more concentrated, so use it sparingly.
salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add a salty and umami flavor, though it will also add a bit of liquid to the recipe.
fresh pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper has a slightly different flavor but can still provide the necessary heat and spice.
celery stalks - Substitute with cucumber sticks: Cucumber sticks offer a similar crunch and refreshing quality, making them a good alternative for dipping.
carrots - Substitute with bell pepper strips: Bell pepper strips provide a sweet and crunchy texture, which pairs well with the dipping sauce.
blue cheese dressing - Substitute with Greek yogurt dressing: Greek yogurt dressing is lighter and provides a tangy flavor with fewer calories and fat.

How to Plate and Present Lighter Buffalo Wings

Arrange the wings elegantly: Place the chicken wings in a circular pattern on a large, white platter to create a visually appealing presentation. Ensure each wing is evenly spaced and slightly overlapping for a cohesive look.
Drizzle with sauce: Lightly drizzle the warmed hot sauce over the wings in a zigzag pattern. This not only adds flavor but also enhances the visual appeal with a touch of vibrant color.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle finely chopped fresh parsley or cilantro over the wings to add a pop of green and a hint of freshness.
Serve with vegetable sticks: Neatly arrange the celery and carrot sticks in a fan shape on one side of the platter. This adds a contrasting crunch and color to the dish.
Elegant dipping sauce presentation: Serve the blue cheese dressing in a small, elegant ramekin placed at the center of the platter. This keeps the sauce contained and allows for easy dipping.
Add a touch of sophistication: Place a few edible flowers or microgreens around the edges of the platter to elevate the presentation and add a touch of sophistication.
Use a clean, minimalist backdrop: Present the platter on a clean, minimalist table setting with a white tablecloth or a wooden board to keep the focus on the beautifully arranged wings.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Buffalo Wings

Large bowl: Used to combine and marinate the chicken wings with the spices and hot sauce.
Broiler rack: Allows the wings to cook evenly under the broiler, ensuring they get crispy without sitting in their own juices.
Broiler: The heat source used to cook the wings, providing a high temperature to achieve a crispy exterior.
Tongs: Handy for flipping the wings halfway through cooking to ensure even browning on both sides.
Small saucepan: Used to heat the remaining hot sauce until warm.
Platter: For arranging the cooked wings, celery, and carrot strips for serving.
Knife: Essential for cutting the celery and carrots into strips.
Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping the vegetables.
Measuring cups: Used to measure out the hot sauce and vinegar accurately.
Measuring spoons: Necessary for measuring the oregano, paprika, garlic powder, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
Mixing spoon: Useful for mixing the chicken wings with the marinade ingredients.

Storing and Freezing Lighter Buffalo Wings

Let the buffalo wings cool completely before storing or freezing.
For short-term storage, place the cooled wings in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
To freeze the wings:
- Arrange the cooled wings in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Place the baking sheet in the freezer for 1-2 hours, or until the wings are frozen solid.
- Transfer the frozen wings to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
- Label the container or bag with the date and contents.
- Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.
To reheat frozen buffalo wings:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Place the frozen wings on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the wings are heated through and the skin is crispy.
- Alternatively, you can reheat the wings in an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
If you have leftover blue cheese dressing, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Cut celery and carrots can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, wrapped in damp paper towels to maintain crispness.

How To Reheat Leftover Buffalo Wings

The best way to reheat leftover buffalo wings is in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the wings on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.
Another option is to reheat the wings in an air fryer. Set the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and place the wings in the basket in a single layer. Cook for 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the wings are hot and crispy.
If you're short on time, you can also reheat the wings in the microwave. Place the wings on a microwave-safe plate and heat on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. However, keep in mind that the skin may become soggy in the microwave.
For a quick and easy reheat, you can also toss the wings in a skillet over medium heat. Add a tablespoon of olive oil or butter to the pan and cook the wings for 3-5 minutes per side, or until heated through and crispy.
If you want to add some extra flavor to your leftover wings, try tossing them in a fresh batch of buffalo sauce before reheating. You can also sprinkle some additional cayenne pepper or hot sauce on top for an extra kick.
Regardless of the method you choose, be sure to reheat the wings until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure they are safe to eat. Serve with fresh celery sticks, carrot sticks, and blue cheese dressing for a delicious and satisfying meal.

Interesting Trivia About Buffalo Wings

A random fact about this recipe is that broiling the chicken wings instead of frying them significantly reduces the amount of oil used, making them a lighter and healthier option while still maintaining a crispy texture.

Is Making Lighter Buffalo Wings at Home Cost-Effective?

This lighter buffalo wings recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. With chicken wings being relatively affordable and common pantry spices like paprika, garlic powder, and chili powder, the overall expense remains low. Fresh celery and carrots add minimal cost, while blue cheese dressing can be purchased or made at home. Overall Verdict: 8/10. Approximate cost for a household of 4 people: $15-$20 USD.

Are Lighter Buffalo Wings Healthy or Unhealthy?

The lighter buffalo wings recipe is a healthier alternative to traditional deep-fried wings. By broiling the chicken instead of frying, the recipe significantly reduces the amount of oil and fat content. The use of spices like oregano, paprika, garlic powder, and chili powder adds flavor without relying on excessive salt or sugar. The inclusion of celery and carrot strips provides a serving of vegetables, which is often lacking in typical wing dishes.

However, there are a few areas where the recipe could be improved to make it even healthier:

Use skinless chicken wings to further reduce the fat content
Opt for a low-fat or fat-free blue cheese dressing to minimize the calorie and fat intake
Increase the proportion of vegetables by serving the wings with a side salad or additional crudités
Experiment with using a sugar-free or low-sodium hot sauce to cut down on added sugars and sodium
Consider baking the wings instead of broiling to reduce the formation of potentially harmful compounds that can occur during high-heat cooking

By incorporating these modifications, the lighter buffalo wings recipe can be transformed into an even more nutritious and guilt-free option for enjoying a classic game-day snack.

Editor's Opinion on This Lighter Buffalo Wings Recipe

This lighter buffalo wings recipe offers a flavorful twist on a classic favorite. Marinating the wings in a blend of hot sauce, vinegar, and spices infuses them with robust flavor. Broiling instead of frying reduces fat content while still achieving a crispy texture. The use of fresh celery and carrot strips adds a refreshing crunch, and the blue cheese dressing provides a creamy contrast. Overall, it's a well-balanced dish that maintains the essence of traditional buffalo wings while being mindful of health.

Enhance Your Lighter Buffalo Wings Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Grilled Asparagus with Lemon Zest: Grilled Asparagus with Lemon Zest: Elevate your appetizer with a side of perfectly charred asparagus, kissed with a hint of lemon zest. The smoky flavor pairs beautifully with the tangy buffalo wings, creating a harmonious balance of tastes. A sprinkle of sea salt and a dash of olive oil complete this delightful dish.

Sweet Potato Fries with Spicy Aioli: Sweet Potato Fries with Spicy Aioli: Add a touch of sweetness and spice to your buffalo wings experience with crispy sweet potato fries. The natural sweetness of the fries is complemented by a zesty spicy aioli, making each bite an explosion of flavors. This side dish is not only delicious but also adds a vibrant color to your platter.

Quinoa Salad with Avocado and Black Beans: Quinoa Salad with Avocado and Black Beans: For a refreshing and nutritious side, consider a quinoa salad loaded with creamy avocado, hearty black beans, and a medley of fresh vegetables. The light and fluffy quinoa provides a perfect contrast to the bold flavors of the buffalo wings, while the avocado adds a rich, buttery texture.

Garlic Parmesan Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Garlic Parmesan Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Transform brussels sprouts into a gourmet delight by roasting them with garlic and parmesan. The crispy edges and cheesy goodness make this side dish irresistible. The robust flavors of the brussels sprouts complement the spicy kick of the buffalo wings, creating a well-rounded meal.

Mango Salsa: Mango Salsa: Brighten up your buffalo wings spread with a vibrant mango salsa. The sweet and tangy mango chunks, combined with red onion, cilantro, and a hint of lime, offer a refreshing contrast to the heat of the wings. This tropical twist adds a burst of color and flavor to your appetizer table.

Similar Recipes to Try If You Like Lighter Buffalo Wings

Spicy Garlic Parmesan Wings: Craving a twist on traditional chicken wings? These Spicy Garlic Parmesan Wings are the perfect blend of heat and savory goodness. Marinated in a zesty mix of garlic, parmesan, and hot sauce, then baked to crispy perfection. Serve with a side of celery and carrot sticks for a delightful crunch.

Honey Sriracha Chicken Wings: For those who love a sweet and spicy combo, Honey Sriracha Chicken Wings are a must-try. These wings are coated in a sticky glaze made from honey and sriracha, offering a tantalizing balance of flavors. Perfect for game day or any casual gathering, these wings are sure to be a hit.

Crispy Baked Lemon Pepper Wings: Elevate your wing game with these Crispy Baked Lemon Pepper Wings. Infused with the zesty tang of lemon and the aromatic kick of black pepper, these wings are baked to a golden crisp. Serve with a side of ranch dressing and vegetable sticks for a refreshing contrast.

Teriyaki Glazed Chicken Wings: Transport your taste buds to Asia with Teriyaki Glazed Chicken Wings. These wings are marinated in a rich teriyaki sauce and baked until caramelized and tender. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions for an extra touch of flavor and presentation.

BBQ Bourbon Chicken Wings: Indulge in the smoky, sweet, and slightly boozy flavors of BBQ Bourbon Chicken Wings. These wings are slathered in a homemade BBQ sauce infused with a hint of bourbon, then grilled to perfection. Pair with cornbread and coleslaw for a complete Southern-inspired feast.

Ideal Main Courses and Desserts to Serve with Buffalo Wings

Main Courses:

Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken: Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken: Elevate your dinner with this succulent chicken dish. Marinated in a blend of lemon juice, olive oil, and fresh herbs, the chicken breasts are grilled to perfection, offering a burst of citrusy flavor with every bite. Serve with a side of roasted vegetables and quinoa for a balanced and nutritious meal.

Stuffed Bell Peppers: Stuffed Bell Peppers: Delight your taste buds with these vibrant bell peppers filled with a savory mixture of ground beef, rice, and tomato sauce. Baked until tender, the peppers are topped with melted cheese for an irresistible finish. Pair with a simple green salad and garlic bread to complete this hearty and satisfying meal.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Indulge in the decadence of a Chocolate Lava Cake. Imagine cutting into a warm, molten center that oozes rich, gooey chocolate. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a contrast of temperatures and textures. Garnish with a sprinkle of powdered sugar and fresh berries for an elegant touch. This dessert is perfect for chocolate lovers and guaranteed to impress your guests.

Lemon Meringue Pie: Brighten your table with a Lemon Meringue Pie. The tangy lemon filling balances beautifully with the sweet, fluffy meringue topping. Serve it chilled for a refreshing finish to any meal. Add a twist by incorporating a hint of lavender or basil into the crust for an unexpected flavor profile. This dessert is both visually stunning and deliciously satisfying.

Why trust this Lighter Buffalo Wings Recipe:

This lighter buffalo wings recipe offers a healthier twist on a classic favorite without sacrificing flavor. By broiling instead of frying, you reduce excess oil and calories. The marinade, featuring franks hot sauce, oregano, and paprika, ensures each wing is packed with robust taste. Paired with fresh celery and carrot sticks, and a side of blue cheese dressing, this dish provides a balanced and satisfying meal. Trust this recipe for its simplicity, health-conscious approach, and delicious results.

Have you tried this lighter buffalo wings recipe? Join the discussion and share your thoughts in the Recipe Sharing forum.

FAQ:

How can I make the wings even lighter?

You can bake the wings instead of broiling them. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the wings on a wire rack over a baking sheet for about 40-45 minutes, flipping halfway through. This method reduces the fat content compared to frying.

Can I use a different hot sauce?

Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite hot sauce or whatever you have on hand. Just keep in mind that different hot sauces have varying levels of heat and flavor, so it might slightly change the taste of the wings.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover wings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can pop them back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until they're warmed through.

Can I marinate the wings longer than 30 minutes?

Yes, marinating the wings for a longer period, like a few hours or even overnight, can enhance the flavor even more. Just make sure to keep them in the refrigerator while marinating.

What can I use instead of blue cheese dressing?

If you're not a fan of blue cheese, you can use ranch dressing or even a yogurt-based dip. Both options pair well with the spicy wings and the crunchy veggies.