Buffalo Chicken

There’s something truly special about a perfectly seasoned piece of chicken. This Buffalo Chicken recipe brings a delightful kick. It’s wonderfully zesty. The chicken turns out so tender and juicy. It’s a flavor explosion you’ll crave.

I love serving this during busy weeknights. It’s also fantastic for game days. My family always asks for more. It’s a simple recipe to bring smiles.

This Buffalo Chicken recipe is a weeknight miracle. Seriously, it’s so fast. I can whip it up after a long day. It’s packed with amazing flavor.

• Super Quick: Total time is just 25 minutes!
• Crowd Pleaser: Always a hit with friends and family.
• Versatile: Great as an appetizer or a main dish.
• Bold Flavor: That classic spicy buffalo taste we all adore.

Buffalo Chicken Ingredients

The magic of this Buffalo Chicken lies in its simple yet powerful flavor combination. It’s all about that spicy, tangy sauce coating tender, juicy chicken pieces. This dish is a celebration of bold tastes!

Let’s break down what makes this recipe so delicious:

• Chicken Breasts or Thighs: The star of the show, providing that satisfying protein base. Use either for your desired tenderness.
• All-Purpose Flour: This helps create a light coating. It gives the chicken a nice texture.
• Salt and Black Pepper: Simple seasonings. They boost the chicken’s natural flavor profile.
• Vegetable Oil: Essential for pan-frying. It helps achieve that perfect golden-brown crust.
• Frank’s RedHot Original Sauce (or favorite buffalo sauce): This is the heart of the buffalo flavor. It brings the signature heat and tang.
• Unsalted Butter: Melts into the sauce. It adds richness and smooths out the spicy kick.
• Ranch or Blue Cheese Dressing: Perfect for dipping. They offer a creamy, cooling contrast.
• Celery Sticks: A classic crunchy side. They refresh your palate between bites.

Substitutions and Tips

Feeling adventurous? Swap chicken thighs for breasts if you prefer a richer flavor. Want more heat? Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the flour. No Frank’s? Any good quality buffalo sauce will work wonders. Remember, all exact measurements are in the recipe card below!

How to Make Buffalo Chicken

Making this delicious Buffalo Chicken at home is easier than you think. I’ll walk you through it. You’ll have a fantastic meal ready fast.

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Coating

Grab a shallow dish. Mix a half cup of flour. Add a half teaspoon of salt. Sprinkle in a quarter teaspoon of pepper. These simple things make a big difference. Toss your chicken pieces in this mix. Make sure each cube is fully coated. This coating helps with the perfect crispness.

Step 2: Heat the Pan

Get a large skillet ready. It could also be a Dutch oven. Pour in two tablespoons of vegetable oil. Heat it over medium-high heat. Let the oil get nice and hot. A good sear is key to tasty chicken.

Step 3: Brown the Chicken

Carefully add the coated chicken to the hot skillet. Don’t overcrowd the pan. Cook in batches if needed. You want each piece to brown nicely. Stir them around. Cook until they are golden brown. This takes about five to seven minutes. Make sure the chicken is cooked through completely. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Use a thermometer to check. This safety step is important. Set the cooked chicken aside.

Step 4: Make the Buffalo Sauce

In a medium bowl, work your magic. Whisk together a half cup of buffalo sauce. Add a quarter cup of melted butter. Stir until it’s smooth and well combined. This sauce is the soul of your spicy chicken dish.

Step 5: Coat the Chicken

Now, add your browned chicken pieces to the sauce. Toss them gently. Mix until every piece is wonderfully coated. The aroma is incredible at this stage. This step brings your Buffalo Chicken recipe to life. It becomes that perfect appetizer or main.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Serve your amazing Buffalo Chicken hot. Offer some cool ranch or blue cheese dressing. Don’t forget the crisp celery sticks. They are the perfect crunchy companion. This is Buffalo Chicken perfection!

How to Store Buffalo Chicken

Leftover Buffalo Chicken is still delicious. Store it in an airtight container. Keep it in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, allow the chicken to cool completely. Then, freeze it in a freezer-safe bag. It can last up to two months frozen. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the oven.

Tips for Success

• Don’t crowd the pan. Browning chicken in batches ensures a crispy crust.
• Check chicken temperature. Use a thermometer for safety. 165°F (74°C) is the target.
• Whisk the sauce well. Melted butter and sauce combine for a smooth coating.
• Taste and adjust. Add more hot sauce for extra spice.
• Serve immediately. This Buffalo Chicken is best fresh and hot.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

Having the right tools makes cooking a breeze. Here’s what you’ll need for this Buffalo Chicken recipe.

• Shallow dish: For coating the chicken.
• Large skillet or Dutch oven: For browning the chicken. Non-stick works well.
• Medium bowl: To mix the buffalo sauce.
• Whisk: To blend the sauce smoothly.
• Tongs: For handling chicken safely.
• Meat thermometer: Ensures chicken is cooked through.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with classic blue cheese or ranch dip.
• Offer crunchy celery and carrot sticks alongside.
• Great on top of salads or as a hearty appetizer.
• Pair with a cold beer or refreshing iced tea.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this Buffalo Chicken ahead of time?

You can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge. For best results, it’s ideal to cook and coat the chicken just before serving. This keeps the chicken crispy and the sauce wonderfully fresh.

What if I don’t have Frank’s RedHot sauce?

No worries at all! You can absolutely use your favorite buffalo sauce. Other popular brands work wonderfully. The key is the tangy, slightly spicy flavor profile it brings to your Buffalo Chicken dish.

Can I bake this Buffalo Chicken instead of pan-frying?

Yes, baking is a great option! You can bake the coated chicken at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through. Then, toss it in the prepared sauce. It’s a slightly different texture but still delicious for a healthier Buffalo Chicken.

How can I make this recipe milder or spicier?

To make it milder, use less hot sauce or a milder variety. You can also add a little extra butter. For a spicier Buffalo Chicken, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the flour coating. Alternatively, use a hotter buffalo sauce or a dash of hot sauce to the finished sauce.

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