Gluten Free Buffalo Chicken Wings

Gluten Free Buffalo Chicken Wings that are crispy, bold, and finished with a hot honey kick? Yes, please. Whether it's game day, Friday night, or just a random Tuesday that calls for wings, this recipe brings the heat—without the gluten. These are everything you want in buffalo wings: crunchy edges, a tangy-sweet sauce, and just the right amount of fire. ✨🔥

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Why You'll Love These Gluten Free Chicken Wings

• Crispy Texture: Achieved through a cornstarch coating and oven-baking or air frying.
• Flavorful Sauce: A blend of Frank's Red Hot, honey, lemon juice, and olive oil.
• Gluten-Free Assurance: No flour, just cornstarch and spices.
• Versatile Cooking Methods: Suitable for oven or air fryer.
• Perfect for Gatherings: Ideal as a gluten-free appetizer or game day snack.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds chicken wings
• ½ tablespoon kosher salt
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• ½ tablespoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup Frank's Red Hot Original Hot Sauce
• 1 cup honey
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• ¼ cup olive oil

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat and Prep the Wings

Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). While it heats, pat your chicken wings completely dry with paper towels—this step is key to getting them crispy. Add the wings to a large mixing bowl and season with kosher salt, garlic powder, paprika, and cracked black pepper. Sprinkle the cornstarch evenly over the wings and toss everything together until the wings are evenly coated. The cornstarch helps give them that extra crunch without any gluten.

Arrange and Bake the Wings

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or place a wire rack on top of a sheet pan for better air circulation (this helps crisp them up even more). Arrange the wings in a single layer, making sure they aren’t crowded. Drizzle with olive oil or spray lightly with a high-heat cooking spray. Bake for 45–50 minutes, flipping them halfway through to ensure even browning and crispiness.

Make the Hot Honey Buffalo Sauce

While the wings are baking, make the sauce. In a small bowl combine the buffalo hot sauce, honey, lemon juice, and olive oil. Stir well & warm up for about a minute.

Toss and Serve

Once the wings are golden and crisp, remove them from the oven. Add them to a clean mixing bowl and pour the warm sauce over top. Toss until each wing is well-coated and glossy. Serve right away with your favorite gluten-free ranch or blue cheese dressing, plus a few fresh veggie sticks if you're into that balance.

How to Make Air Fryer Gluten-Free Buffalo Chicken Wings

To make these gluten-free buffalo chicken wings in the air fryer, start the same way—pat the wings completely dry, then season with kosher salt, garlic powder, paprika, black pepper, and toss with cornstarch to help them crisp. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for a few minutes. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with oil and arrange the wings in a single layer, leaving space between each one. You may need to cook them in batches depending on the size of your air fryer. Air fry for 10 minutes, flip the wings, and cook for another 8–10 minutes until golden brown and crispy. While they cook, warm the buffalo hot honey sauce on the stove. Once the wings are done, toss them in the sauce and serve hot with your favorite gluten-free dipping sauce.

Ingredient Substitutions & Keeping It Gluten-Free

• Cornstarch: If unavailable, arrowroot starch or tapioca starch can be used.
• Hot Sauce: Ensure the hot sauce is gluten-free. Frank's RedHot Original is a safe choice.
• Honey: Maple syrup or agave nectar can be substituted for a different sweetness profile.

Note: Always check labels to ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free.

Healthy Sauce Alternatives for Gluten-Free Chicken Wings

While classic buffalo sauce is always a crowd favorite, there are plenty of other healthy and gluten-free wing sauces you can try to mix things up—without sacrificing flavor. Whether you're looking for something spicy, sweet, or tangy, these gluten-free sauce ideas make your wings even more versatile for game day, meal prep, or weeknight dinners.

1. Hot Honey Chicken Wings

If you love that sweet heat combo, hot honey chicken wings are the way to go. Simply mix raw honey with a dash of your favorite hot sauce or red pepper flakes, then warm it gently to combine. This sticky glaze is naturally gluten-free and gives your wings a bold kick with a hint of sweetness. It’s perfect for those who want a spicy-sweet option that feels a little elevated.

2. Garlic Herb Olive Oil Wings

For something a little lighter but full of flavor, toss your wings in a blend of extra virgin olive oil, fresh garlic, lemon juice, and finely chopped parsley or rosemary. This Mediterranean-inspired sauce keeps it fresh, zesty, and completely gluten-free—perfect for those avoiding dairy or looking for a clean option.

3. Maple Mustard Wings

Whisk together pure maple syrup, Dijon mustard, a splash of apple cider vinegar, and a pinch of sea salt for a naturally sweet and tangy sauce. These maple mustard wings are great if you're craving something bold but without added sugar or preservatives. It's a gluten-free option that works especially well in the fall or for brunch spreads.

4. Coconut Aminos Teriyaki Wings

For an Asian-inspired twist, mix coconut aminos with a bit of honey, grated ginger, garlic, and lime juice. This teriyaki-style glaze is a soy-free, gluten-free alternative to traditional teriyaki sauce and pairs beautifully with crispy wings. It’s slightly sweet, salty, and umami-packed, without any added gluten or refined sugar.

5. Spicy Avocado Cilantro Sauce

If you want to go totally sauce-forward and dip-style, try blending ripe avocado with lime juice, fresh cilantro, jalapeño, and a touch of olive oil. It’s not a hot glaze but makes an ultra-creamy, cooling, and dairy-free sauce to serve alongside your wings—or even coat them lightly for a fresh take.

Serving Suggestions

• Dips: Pair with gluten-free ranch dressing or blue cheese dressing.
• Sides: Serve with celery sticks, carrot sticks, or a fresh garden salad.
• Beverages: Complement with a cold drink or sparkling water with lemon.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these wings ahead of time? Yes, you can bake or air fry the wings ahead of time and reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes. Toss in freshly heated sauce before serving.

How do I store leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to maintain crispiness.

Are these wings spicy? They have a moderate heat level. Adjust the amount of hot sauce or honey to suit your taste preferences.

Can I use frozen wings? Yes, but ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry before seasoning and cooking.

Is there a dairy-free option for the sauce? This recipe's sauce is already dairy-free, using olive oil instead of butter.

Enjoy!

These gluten-free buffalo chicken wings are proof that you don’t have to compromise on flavor or texture when eating gluten-free. They’re crispy, satisfying, and just the right balance of heat and sweetness. Whether you're making them for a gathering or a weeknight dinner, they’re simple, reliable, and always a crowd-pleaser.