If you’re craving something that is downright addictive, packed with flavor, and ready faster than you’d expect, this Instant Pot Hot Wings Recipe is about to become your new best friend. These wings are juicy on the inside from the magic of the pressure cooker, then perfectly crispy and coated in a tangy, buttery buffalo sauce that sings with just the right amount of heat. Whether it’s game day, a casual get-together, or just a cozy night in, this recipe brings together bold flavors and lightning-fast prep in one finger-licking bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting these wings just right starts with a few simple ingredients that each play an essential role in building up flavor, moisture, and that irresistible spicy kick. None are tricky to find and all come together quickly for maximum taste with minimal fuss.
- 3 pounds chicken wings, wing & drummies separated: Also known as ‘party wings,’ these are perfect for even cooking and great bite-sized portions.
- 2 tablespoons butter: Adds richness and a silky texture to the sauce, balancing the heat beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Introduces a fragrant herby note that deepens the sauce complexity.
- 1/2 cup buffalo sauce or hot sauce: The heart of our spice, bringing that classic buffalo flavor everyone loves.
- 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice: A little acidity brightens the sauce and cuts through the richness for a perfect finish.
How to Make Instant Pot Hot Wings Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Instant Pot and Wings
Start by adding the trivet and 1 cup of water to your electric pressure cooker. This prevents the wings from sitting in liquid and helps them steam perfectly. Carefully arrange the wings in a single layer on the trivet, making sure none slip into the water below. This setup ensures even cooking.
Step 2: Pressure Cook the Wings
Seal the lid, set the steam vent to sealing, and select the manual or pressure cook function. Cook the wings on high pressure for 5 minutes. It’s amazing how quickly the Instant Pot works to steam the wings juicy and tender in such a short time.
Step 3: Prepare the Sauce and Oven
While the wings come to pressure and cook, it’s time to make your buffalo sauce. Preheat your oven’s broiler with the rack set in the middle position, and line a sheet pan with aluminum foil for easy clean-up. This quick broil step will finish off the wings with a wonderful crisp and charred edges.
Step 4: Make the Buffalo Sauce
Melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Once melted, stir in the Italian seasoning and cook for about 30 seconds to release those lovely aromas. Whisk in the buffalo or hot sauce and bring it just to a slight simmer—let it bubble gently for about one minute to marry the flavors. Finally, stir in the lemon juice to brighten it all up. Set this luscious sauce aside until ready to coat the wings.
Step 5: Release Pressure and Transfer Wings
When the cooking time ends, perform a quick release by carefully flipping the steam vent to venting position. Once the float valve drops, open the lid cautiously (steam is hot!). Use tongs to transfer the wings into a large bowl where the fun part begins—saucing.
Step 6: Toss Wings in Sauce
Pour the sauce over the warm wings and toss thoroughly so every piece is generously coated in that rich, spicy glaze. If you want an extra saucy bite, brush more sauce on top after plating them on your sheet pan.
Step 7: Broil for the Perfect Finish
Slide the sauced wings under the broiler for 5 to 6 minutes, watching closely so they brown beautifully and develop a slight crispness without burning. Keep in mind broiler intensity varies, so this step adds that signature crunchy texture that completes the wings perfectly.
How to Serve Instant Pot Hot Wings Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes take these wings up a notch. Sprinkle chopped green onions or finely chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. You can also add a few celery sticks on the side for crunch and a classic pairing that soothes the heat.
Side Dishes
Instant Pot Hot Wings Recipe pairs wonderfully with creamy sides like blue cheese or ranch dressing for dipping. Crispy fries, celery sticks, or even a simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balance the richness and keep it all feeling fresh and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, lay the wings out on a large platter surrounded by little bowls of various sauces—from cooling ranch to extra spicy sriracha mayo. Or try stacking the wings into a tower and garnish with thin lemon slices and fresh herbs for an eye-catching appetizer at parties or casual gatherings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover wings can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping the sauce separate until reheating helps maintain the best texture and flavor when you’re ready to enjoy them again.
Freezing
If you want to stash some for later, you can freeze cooked wings in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for the best results.
Reheating
To reheat, place wings on a foil-lined sheet pan and warm in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy again. You can also toss them briefly under the broiler to refresh that crunchy exterior. Reheat the sauce separately and toss before serving if you kept it apart.
FAQs
Can I use frozen wings for this Instant Pot Hot Wings Recipe?
Yes! You can cook frozen wings straight from the freezer using the same method, but you’ll want to increase the pressure cooking time to about 10 minutes to ensure they’re fully cooked and tender.
What if I want the wings extra crispy?
If crispiness is your thing, a quick toss in a hot skillet or an air fryer for a few minutes after broiling will give you that added crunch without drying out the wings.
Can I adjust the spice level?
Absolutely! Using milder hot sauce or less buffalo sauce will tame the heat, while adding extra crushed red pepper flakes or hot sauce will ramp it right up to fiery perfection.
Is Italian seasoning necessary in the sauce?
While not absolutely essential, the Italian seasoning adds a lovely herbal note that complements the buffalo sauce and rounds out the flavor beautifully. Feel free to experiment with dried thyme or oregano if you prefer.
Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the buffalo sauce a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Warm it gently before tossing with freshly cooked wings to keep that vibrant flavor and silky texture.
Final Thoughts
This Instant Pot Hot Wings Recipe is proof that you don’t need complicated steps or dozens of ingredients to make insanely delicious wings at home. Juicy, flavorful, and with that perfect spicy kick, it will steal the show whenever you serve it. So breeze through your kitchen with your pressure cooker, whip up this crowd-pleaser, and enjoy every mouthwatering moment that follows!
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Instant Pot Hot Wings Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Instant Pot
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Instant Pot Hot Wings are juicy, tender on the inside, and perfectly crispy on the outside with a spicy buffalo sauce finish. Using an electric pressure cooker drastically cuts down the cooking time while ensuring flavorful wings, and a quick broil at the end adds the perfect crispy glaze. Ideal as a crowd-pleasing appetizer or game day snack.
Ingredients
Chicken Wings
- 3 pounds chicken wings, wing & drummies separated (also known as ‘party wings’)
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 cup buffalo sauce or hot sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice
Instructions
- Prepare Instant Pot: Add the trivet and 1 cup of water to the electric pressure cooker. Carefully pile the chicken wings onto the trivet, ensuring none fall into the water.
- Pressure Cook Wings: Seal the lid, turn the steam vent to sealing, and select manual/pressure cook. Set to high pressure for 5 minutes.
- Make Sauce & Preheat Oven: While wings cook, melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add Italian seasoning and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in the buffalo or hot sauce, bring to a slight simmer, and let simmer for 1 minute. Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice. Meanwhile, preheat the oven to broil with the rack in the middle position, and line a sheet pan with aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
- Release Pressure & Remove Wings: When cooking time ends, quick release steam from the pressure cooker. Once the float valve drops, carefully open the lid.
- Toss Wings in Sauce: Using tongs, transfer wings to a large bowl. Pour the sauce over the wings and toss thoroughly to coat them evenly.
- Broil for Crispiness: Arrange the coated wings on the prepared sheet pan. If desired, brush more sauce on top. Broil the wings for 5-6 minutes or until they develop a browned, crispy exterior, watching closely to prevent burning.
- Serve: Remove wings from the oven and serve immediately for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Be sure to place the wings on the trivet to avoid them sitting in water while pressure cooking.
- Broiling time can vary by oven; keep a close eye to avoid burning the wings.
- For extra crispy skin, you can broil longer but watch carefully.
- Customize the heat level by choosing your preferred hot sauce.
- Make sure to use aluminum foil on the sheet pan for easier cleanup of sticky buffalo sauce.
