History of Hot Wings: Buffalo to Your Air Fryer

By Cap Puckhaber, Reno, Nevada

Buffalo wings are one of the most beloved snacks in the U.S., often associated with game days, barbecues, and late-night cravings. But what is the true story behind this iconic dish? Does it really have anything to do with Buffalo, New York? And, more importantly, how can you make the perfect buffalo wings in an air fryer? Let’s dive in.

The Origins of Buffalo Wings

Buffalo wings trace their origins back to 1964 in Buffalo, New York, where the dish was created by accident. The story goes like this: Teressa Bellissimo, co-owner of the Anchor Bar in Buffalo, had some leftover chicken wings that she didn’t know what to do with. Traditionally, wings were often used for stock or discarded, but Teressa decided to deep fry them and toss them in a special spicy sauce made from cayenne pepper, butter, and other secret ingredients. She served them to her son and his friends as a late-night snack—and the rest, as they say, is history.

The wings were an instant hit, and the combination of crispy chicken with a spicy, buttery coating became a favorite among customers. The original “Buffalo wing” became synonymous with the city, and soon enough, the dish spread across the country. Over the years, variations have emerged, with different sauces (like BBQ or garlic parmesan) and cooking techniques, but the traditional buffalo wing—crispy, spicy, and saucy—remains a fan favorite.

Does It Have Anything to Do with Buffalo, New York?

Yes! While many people might assume the name “buffalo” refers to the animal, it actually refers to the city of Buffalo, New York. The dish’s origin is tied directly to the Anchor Bar in Buffalo, where it was invented. The city itself is proud of its claim to fame, and buffalo wings are a staple in bars, restaurants, and even annual festivals (like the National Buffalo Wing Festival) held in the city. So, the next time you enjoy a plate of wings, remember you’re savoring a bite of history from Buffalo, New York.

Tips for Making Perfect Buffalo Wings in an Air Fryer

Now that we know the history, let’s talk about how you can recreate this delicious dish in your own kitchen—without deep frying. The air fryer has become a game-changer for cooking wings, offering a healthier and quicker alternative to traditional frying. Here’s how you can make the perfect buffalo wings in your air fryer:

1. Choose the Right Wings

Start with fresh, high-quality chicken wings. You can use whole wings or wingettes (the middle section). Make sure they’re pat dry with paper towels—this helps them crisp up better.

2. Season Before Cooking

For extra flavor, season the wings with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. You can also add a little baking powder to the seasoning mix. This helps create a crispy, golden texture without the extra oil.

3. Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3-5 minutes before adding your wings. This ensures they cook evenly and become crispier.

4. Cook in Batches

Arrange your wings in a single layer inside the air fryer basket, making sure there’s enough space between them for the hot air to circulate. Cook for 25-30 minutes, flipping the wings halfway through to ensure they cook evenly and achieve that crispy texture.

5. Prepare the Buffalo Sauce

While your wings are cooking, mix up your buffalo sauce. Melt butter and add a generous amount of hot sauce (Frank’s RedHot is the classic choice), along with a pinch of garlic powder, and a dash of vinegar. Adjust the heat to your preference by adding more or less hot sauce.

6. Toss and Serve

Once your wings are done, toss them in the buffalo sauce right after they come out of the air fryer, ensuring each wing is coated. Serve with celery sticks and blue cheese or ranch dressing for dipping.

7. Optional: Extra Crispy

If you prefer extra crispy wings, return the sauced wings to the air fryer for an additional 3-5 minutes to allow the sauce to caramelize and the skin to crisp up.

Conclusion

Buffalo wings have a rich and flavorful history that ties back to Buffalo, New York. From humble beginnings in a bar to a global phenomenon, these wings have stood the test of time. Now, with the air fryer, you can make this crispy, spicy snack at home without the mess of deep frying. Follow these tips, and you’ll have the perfect buffalo wings every time—crispy, flavorful, and just the right amount of heat. Enjoy!

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