Hot Honey Buffalo Wings with Cucumber Ranch

When I think of comfort food, Hot Honey Buffalo Wings with Cucumber Ranch always comes to mind.

These wings are not just a dish; they’re a celebration of flavor and fun.

Whether you’re hosting a game night or just craving something delicious, this recipe is your go-to.

The sweet heat of the honey combined with the cool, creamy ranch dressing creates a perfect balance.

Plus, they’re easy to whip up, making them a fantastic choice for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!

Why You’ll Love This Hot Honey Buffalo Wings with Cucumber Ranch

These Hot Honey Buffalo Wings are a game-changer for any occasion.

They’re quick to prepare, taking just about an hour from start to finish.

The combination of sweet honey and spicy sauce creates a flavor explosion that’s hard to resist.

Plus, the refreshing Cucumber Ranch dressing cools things down, making every bite a delight.

Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just indulging yourself, these wings are sure to impress!

Ingredients for Hot Honey Buffalo Wings with Cucumber Ranch

Creating the perfect Hot Honey Buffalo Wings with Cucumber Ranch starts with gathering the right ingredients.

Here’s what you’ll need:

• Chicken Wings: The star of the show! I prefer using a mix of flats and drumettes for variety.
• Salt and Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning, these two bring out the natural flavors of the chicken.
• Garlic Powder and Onion Powder: These spices add depth and a savory kick to the wings.
• Hot Sauce: A must-have for that classic buffalo flavor. Frank’s RedHot is my go-to, but feel free to experiment!
• Honey: This is where the magic happens! It balances the heat with its sweetness.
• Butter: Adds richness to the hot honey sauce, making it even more delicious.
• Mayonnaise, Sour Cream, and Buttermilk: These creamy ingredients form the base of the Cucumber Ranch dressing, giving it that smooth texture.
• Dried Dill: A hint of herbaceous flavor that complements the ranch dressing beautifully.
• Cucumber: Finely diced, it adds a refreshing crunch to the dressing.

For those looking to mix things up, consider adding a splash of apple cider vinegar to the hot honey sauce for an extra tang.

All ingredient quantities are listed at the bottom of the article for easy printing.

Happy cooking!

How to Make Hot Honey Buffalo Wings with Cucumber Ranch

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F.

This temperature is key for achieving crispy wings.

While the oven heats up, line a baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup.

Place a wire rack on top of the baking sheet.

This allows air to circulate around the wings, ensuring they cook evenly and get that perfect crunch.

Trust me, this step is worth it!

Step 2: Season the Wings

In a large bowl, toss the chicken wings with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.

Make sure every wing is coated evenly; this is where the flavor begins.

I like to use my hands for this—it’s messy but effective!

Once seasoned, arrange the wings in a single layer on the wire rack.

This helps them cook uniformly, so you get that delicious crispy texture all around.

Step 3: Bake the Wings

Now it’s time to bake those wings!

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and let them bake for 40-45 minutes.

Halfway through, flip the wings to ensure they brown evenly.

You want them to be golden and crispy, so keep an eye on them.

If you’re feeling adventurous, broil them for an extra 2-3 minutes at the end for added crispiness!

Step 4: Make the Hot Honey Sauce

While the wings are baking, let’s whip up the hot honey sauce.

In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the hot sauce, honey, and butter.

Stir the mixture until the butter melts and everything is well blended.

This sauce is where the magic happens, balancing sweet and spicy perfectly.

Once combined, remove it from the heat and set it aside to let the flavors meld.

Step 5: Prepare the Cucumber Ranch Dressing

Now, let’s make that refreshing Cucumber Ranch dressing.

In a separate bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, sour cream, buttermilk, garlic powder, dill, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.

Add the finely diced cucumber and stir until everything is smooth and creamy.

This dressing is the perfect cool contrast to the spicy wings.

Refrigerate it until you’re ready to serve, allowing the flavors to develop.

Step 6: Toss and Serve

Once the wings are done baking, it’s time for the grand finale!

Remove them from the oven and toss them in the hot honey sauce until they’re well coated.

The wings should glisten with that sweet, spicy goodness.

Serve them hot with the Cucumber Ranch dressing on the side for dipping.

Your friends and family will be lining up for seconds—trust me on this one!

Tips for Success

• For extra crispy wings, broil them for 2-3 minutes after baking.
• Let the wings rest for a few minutes before tossing them in the sauce; this helps the sauce stick better.
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure the wings reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
• Feel free to adjust the honey and hot sauce ratio to suit your taste.
• Make the Cucumber Ranch dressing a day ahead for even better flavor!

Equipment Needed

• Baking Sheet: A standard sheet works, but a rimmed one prevents spills.
• Wire Rack: Essential for crispy wings; a cooling rack can substitute.
• Mixing Bowls: Use any size; just ensure they’re large enough for tossing.
• Small Saucepan: Perfect for making the hot honey sauce; a skillet can work too.

Variations

• Spicy Garlic Wings: Add minced garlic to the hot honey sauce for an extra kick of flavor.
• Honey Mustard Wings: Swap out some honey for Dijon mustard in the sauce for a tangy twist.
• Gluten-Free Option: Ensure your hot sauce and other ingredients are certified gluten-free for a safe meal.
• Vegetarian Alternative: Use cauliflower florets instead of chicken wings for a delicious plant-based option.
• Smoky BBQ Wings: Mix in some smoked paprika to the seasoning for a smoky flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions

• Classic Celery and Carrots: Serve with crunchy celery sticks and baby carrots for a refreshing crunch.
• Beer Pairing: A cold lager or pale ale complements the spicy wings perfectly.
• Presentation: Arrange wings on a platter with the Cucumber Ranch in the center for a stunning display.
• Side Dishes: Consider serving with potato wedges or a simple green salad for balance.

FAQs about Hot Honey Buffalo Wings with Cucumber Ranch

Can I make Hot Honey Buffalo Wings in an air fryer?

Absolutely! Air frying is a great way to achieve crispy wings without the oven. Cook them at 375°F for about 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crispiness.

What can I substitute for buttermilk in the Cucumber Ranch dressing?

If you don’t have buttermilk, you can easily make a substitute. Just mix 1/2 cup of milk with 1/2 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for a few minutes before using.

How spicy are these wings?

The heat level depends on the hot sauce you choose. Frank’s RedHot gives a nice kick without being overwhelming. Adjust the amount of hot sauce to suit your taste!

Can I prepare the wings ahead of time?

Yes! You can season the wings and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. Just let them come to room temperature before cooking for the best results.

What’s the best way to store leftovers?

Store any leftover wings in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven to maintain their crispiness!

Final Thoughts

Creating Hot Honey Buffalo Wings with Cucumber Ranch is more than just cooking; it’s about bringing people together.

The sweet and spicy flavors dance on your palate, while the cool ranch dressing offers a refreshing contrast.

Whether it’s game day or a casual dinner, these wings are sure to impress.

I love how they spark conversations and laughter around the table.

So, roll up your sleeves, gather your loved ones, and dive into this delicious adventure.

Trust me, every bite will be a moment worth savoring!

Print