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1
For the wings: Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F. Line 1 large or 2 small rimmed baking sheets with foil.
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2
Whisk together the flour, cayenne and salt in a large bowl.
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3
Heat 2 inches of oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat until a deep-fry thermometer registers 375 degrees F. Working in 3 batches, dredge the wings in the flour mixture and fry until lightly browned, 10 to 12 minutes per batch.
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4
Transfer the wings with a slotted spoon to a paper-towel-lined plate.
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5
(Make sure the oil returns to the proper temperature before frying each batch.)
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6
Combine the butter, hot sauce and lemon juice in a large bowl.
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7
Toss the fried wings in the hot sauce mixture; transfer the wings and sauce to the prepared baking sheet(s).
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8
Bake, flipping the wings occasionally, until they are crispy and have absorbed most of the sauce, about 35 minutes.
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9
For the blue cheese dressing: Whisk together the mayonnaise, half-and-half, sour cream, lemon juice, salt, Worcestershire and 1/4 cup of the blue cheese in a medium bowl until smooth.
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10
Gently stir in the remaining 1/4 cup blue cheese and season with pepper to taste.
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11
Use immediately, or refrigerate for up to 3 days.
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12
(Makes about 2 1/2 cups dressing.)
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13
Transfer the wings to a serving platter and serve with the blue cheese dressing and celery and carrot sticks.
