Introduction:
Get ready for a spicy, tangy treat with this irresistible Buffalo Chicken recipe. Perfectly seasoned and coated in a zesty buffalo sauce, this dish is great for game days, parties, or a fiery weeknight dinner. Whether you serve it as a main course or as an appetizer, it’s sure to be a hit with anyone who loves a bit of heat.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Spicy and Tangy: A perfect balance of heat and tanginess from the buffalo sauce.
- Versatile: Can be used in various dishes like sandwiches, salads, or served on its own.
- Easy to Make: Requires minimal prep and is quick to cook.
- Great for Entertaining: Ideal for parties, game days, or casual gatherings.
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup buffalo sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (optional, for a richer sauce)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Pat the chicken dry with paper towels and place it in a bowl.
- Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
- Cook the Chicken:
- Arrange the chicken pieces on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a lightly greased rack.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). If using chicken thighs, they may need a few extra minutes.
- Coat with Buffalo Sauce:
- While the chicken is baking, heat the buffalo sauce and butter (if using) in a small saucepan over low heat until the butter is melted and the sauce is well combined.
- Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the oven and brush or toss with the buffalo sauce until evenly coated.
- Serve:
- Serve the buffalo chicken hot with your favorite sides such as celery sticks, carrot sticks, and a side of ranch or blue cheese dressing.
Tips for Success:
- Chicken Dryness: Ensure the chicken is patted dry before seasoning for a better sauce adhesion.
- Butter in Sauce: Adding butter to the buffalo sauce makes it richer and helps to balance the heat.
- Adjust Spice Level: Modify the amount of cayenne pepper to control the heat level to your preference.
Recipe Variations:
- Spicy Chicken Wings: Use this recipe to make spicy buffalo chicken wings by adjusting the cooking time to 30-35 minutes and increasing the temperature to 425°F (220°C) for extra crispiness.
- Buffalo Chicken Dip: Shred the cooked chicken and mix it with cream cheese, ranch dressing, and additional buffalo sauce for a delicious dip.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with cauliflower florets for a spicy vegetarian alternative.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with celery and carrot sticks along with ranch or blue cheese dressing.
- Pair with a side of fries or a simple green salad.
- Use in sandwiches or wraps for a spicy twist.
Freezing and Storage:
- Storage: Store leftover buffalo chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Freeze cooked buffalo chicken in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
Special Equipment:
- Baking Sheet or Rack: For even cooking and crispiness.
- Saucepan: To heat and combine the buffalo sauce and butter.
FAQ:
- Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the chicken and coat it with buffalo sauce ahead of time. Reheat in the oven before serving.
- Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts? Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add extra juiciness and flavor.
- What if I don’t like it too spicy? Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper or use a milder buffalo sauce to suit your taste.
Nutrition Information (per serving):
- Calories: 290
- Protein: 30g
- Carbs: 2g
- Fat: 18g
Buffalo Chicken Chili Recipe Card
- Total Time: 0 hours
Ingredients
Scale
- For the Chicken:
- 1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- For the Sauce:
- 1 cup buffalo sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (optional, for a richer sauce)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Pat the chicken dry with paper towels and place in a bowl.
- Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
- Cook the Chicken:
- Arrange the chicken pieces on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a lightly greased rack.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). (Chicken thighs may need a few extra minutes.)
- Coat with Buffalo Sauce:
- While the chicken is baking, heat the buffalo sauce and butter (if using) in a small saucepan over low heat until the butter is melted and the sauce is well combined.
- Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the oven and brush or toss with the buffalo sauce until evenly coated.
- Serve:
- Serve the buffalo chicken hot with your favorite sides such as celery sticks, carrot sticks, and a side of ranch or blue cheese dressing.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 20-25
Nutrition
- Calories: 290
- Fat: 18
- Carbohydrates: 2
- Protein: 30
Closing Notes:
Tried this Buffalo Chicken recipe? We’d love to hear your thoughts! Share your experience in the comments, and tag us on social media with your spicy creations. Check back for more delicious and exciting recipes!
