Ingredients:
For the Wings:
- 2 lbs chicken wings (separated into drumettes and flats if not already separated)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- Vegetable oil for frying
For the Buffalo Sauce:
- 1/2 cup hot sauce (Frank’s RedHot is classic)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tbsp white vinegar (optional, for tang)
- 1/4 tsp Worcestershire sauce (optional)
Equipment:
- Large mixing bowl
- Deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot
- Baking sheet
- Wire cooling rack
- Paper towels
- Saucepan
Instructions:
Prep the Wings:
- Pat chicken wings dry thoroughly with paper towels.
- In the mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, paprika, cayenne pepper, and garlic powder.
- Add wings to the flour mixture and toss to coat evenly.
Fry the Wings:
- Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot to 375°F (190°C). Use a cooking thermometer to check the temperature.
- Working in batches, carefully fry wings until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Drain fried wings on paper towels or a wire rack set over a baking sheet.
Make the Sauce:
- While the wings are frying, melt butter in a saucepan over low heat.
- Add hot sauce, vinegar (if using), and Worcestershire sauce (if using). Whisk to combine.
- Simmer for just a minute or two to warm through, then remove from heat.
Coat the Wings:
- Place fried wings in a clean, large bowl.
- Pour the warm buffalo sauce over the wings and toss thoroughly to coat.
Serve:
- Serve immediately with celery sticks and your favorite dipping sauce (blue cheese or ranch dressing are traditional).
Tips:
- Oven Baking: For a less-messy option, bake prepped wings on a wire rack set over a baking sheet at 400°F (200°C) for 30-40 minutes, turning halfway through.
- Spice Level: Adjust the cayenne pepper amount to control the heat level.
- Variations: Try making the Ruby Tuesday’s Fire Wings by using a chili-garlic sauce in place of some or all of the regular hot sauce.
Enjoy your delicious homemade Ruby Tuesday Buffalo Chicken Wings!