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Buffalo-Style Dry Rub for Wings

A bold, tangy, and smoky seasoning blend that delivers all the classic Buffalo wing flavor without the sauce. This dry rub coats each wing in a punchy mix of heat, garlic, and savory spices, creating crispy, flavor-packed bites perfect for game day, parties, or weeknight cravings. It’s everything you love about Buffalo wings—just cleaner, crunchier, and irresistibly addictive.
Course Sauces/ Dips
Cuisine American
Keyword buffalo, chicken wings, Dry Rub
Servings 0.25 cup
Author Keith

Equipment

  • Small Mixing Bowl

Ingredients

  • 1 tbsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tbsp chili powder
  • 2 tsp garlic powder
  • 2 tsp onion powder
  • tsp cayenne pepper adjust for heat
  • tsp kosher salt
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp sugar or monk fruit optional, just to round the heat
  • ½ tsp ground mustard
  • ½ tsp dried vinegar powder optional but very “buffalo” if you have it

Instructions

  • Pat wings completely dry (this is key for crispy skin).
  • Lightly coat with oil or cooking spray.
  • Toss wings generously with the rub.
  • Cook:
  • Air fryer: 380°F for 22–25 min, flipping halfway
  • Oven: 425°F for 40–45 min
  • Grill: Medium heat until crispy and cooked through

Notes

Pro Buffalo Move
 
After cooking, hit the wings with a light mist of melted butter + apple cider vinegar (1 tbsp butter + 1 tsp vinegar). You’ll get that classic buffalo tang without turning them saucy.
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