Spicy Ranch Baked Chicken Wings

These Spicy Ranch Baked Chicken Wings are the ultimate party snack—crispy, juicy, and bursting with bold flavor. Marinated in a zesty blend of ranch seasoning, hot sauce, and garlic, then baked until golden and broiled for that irresistible crunch, they’re impossible to resist. Served with a Dirty Ranch dipping sauce that’s creamy, spicy, and just a little sweet, these wings are made to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These wings deliver everything you want in a game-day or party dish: crispy skin, juicy meat, and a mouthwatering mix of spicy and savory flavors. The ranch seasoning and hot sauce combo offers a bold, tangy kick that’s not overpowering. They’re oven-baked, not fried, making them easier and cleaner to prepare. Plus, the Dirty Ranch dipping sauce adds an extra layer of craveable flavor that will have everyone coming back for more.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Wings:

• 4 pounds chicken wings

• 1/4 cup mayonnaise

• 1/2 cup hot sauce

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• 1 package ranch dressing seasoning mix

• 1 teaspoon granulated garlic

• 1 teaspoon salt

For the Dirty Ranch Sauce:

• 1 cup ranch dressing

• 1 tablespoon hot sauce

• 1/4 teaspoon sugar

Directions

1. In a mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, hot sauce, paprika, ranch seasoning, granulated garlic, and salt. Stir until well blended.

2. Place the chicken wings in a large zip-top bag or bowl. Pour the marinade over the wings and toss to coat evenly.

3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to fully absorb.

4. Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top. Arrange the wings in a single layer on the rack.

5. Bake for 40 minutes, turning once halfway through.

6. Switch the oven to broil. Broil the wings for 3–5 minutes per side, or until the skin is golden and crisp.

7. While the wings finish, stir together the ranch dressing, hot sauce, and sugar to make the Dirty Ranch Sauce.

8. Serve the hot wings with the sauce on the side for dipping.

Servings and timing

Servings: 6
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour (plus marinating time)
Calories: Approximately 1246 kcal per serving

Variations

• Extra Hot: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite super-hot sauce to the marinade.

• Sweet & Spicy: Mix a tablespoon of honey or brown sugar into the marinade for a touch of sweetness.

• Dry Rub Option: Skip the mayo and sauce, and rub the wings with dry ranch seasoning and spices before baking.

• Air Fryer Friendly: Cook in an air fryer at 380°F for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through.

• Boneless Wings: Use boneless chicken tenders or thighs cut into chunks if you prefer boneless bites.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover wings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in a 375°F oven or air fryer for 8–10 minutes until heated through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving, as it will soften the crispy skin. The Dirty Ranch sauce can be stored in the fridge for up to 5 days.

FAQs

Can I make these wings less spicy?

Yes, reduce the amount of hot sauce in both the marinade and dipping sauce to your taste.

Can I use drumettes or whole wings?

Yes, you can use drumettes, flats, or whole wings. Just make sure to adjust cooking time if wings are larger.

What kind of hot sauce works best?

Frank’s RedHot or any medium-heat vinegar-based hot sauce works well in this recipe.

Can I freeze the wings?

Cooked wings can be frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat from frozen in a 375°F oven until hot and crispy.

Is it necessary to marinate overnight?

While not required, marinating overnight gives the wings more intense flavor. A minimum of 4 hours is recommended.

Do I need a wire rack?

A wire rack helps the heat circulate evenly and makes the wings crispier, but you can bake directly on a foil-lined tray if needed.

Can I use store-bought ranch dressing for the sauce?

Yes, any bottled ranch works great as the base for the Dirty Ranch dipping sauce.

How do I know when the wings are done?

Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the juices run clear.

What sides go well with these wings?

Try celery sticks, carrot sticks, coleslaw, or oven-baked fries.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just bake in batches or use two racks to ensure even cooking and crisping.

Conclusion

Spicy Ranch Baked Chicken Wings are a guaranteed hit for parties, game days, or anytime you’re craving bold, crave-worthy flavor. Easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying, these wings are crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and packed with the perfect balance of heat and ranch-infused savoriness. Don’t forget the Dirty Ranch sauce—it takes these wings from great to unforgettable.

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