These grilled buffalo chicken wings are super easy to make with just three ingredients! They’re spicy, tangy, and perfect for game day or a fun BBQ.
Just imagine biting into a crispy wing that’s bursting with flavor. I love how simple it is—just marinate, grill, and enjoy. It’s hard to stop at one! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Wings: Fresh chicken wings give the best flavor. If you’re short on time, you can buy pre-cut wings or even frozen ones. Just make sure to thaw them before grilling!
Buffalo Sauce: The star of the dish! I prefer a classic hot sauce like Frank’s RedHot. If you like things milder, you can mix it with a bit of butter or ranch dressing to tone it down.
Olive Oil: This coats the wings to help them crisp up on the grill. If you’re looking for alternatives, avocado oil or any high-heat oil will work well too. I like to add some flavor by using garlic-infused oil!
Salt and Pepper: These enhance the wings’ taste. Remember, seasoning to your preference is crucial. If you’re watching your salt intake, feel free to skip it or use a salt substitute.
How Do I Get Perfectly Grilled Buffalo Chicken Wings?
The key to perfect grilled wings is achieving that nice crispy skin while keeping the meat juicy. Start by preparing your grill: preheat it to medium-high heat for the right cooking temperature.
- Coat your chicken wings in olive oil for a crispy texture.
- Season with salt and pepper if you’re using it. This infuses flavor right into the meat.
- Place the wings on the grill and avoid moving them too much; let them cook for 10-12 minutes on one side before flipping.
- During the last 5 minutes, brush on the buffalo sauce for that rich flavor, and don’t rush this part; let it caramelize a bit!
These steps will help you achieve restaurant-quality wings at home. Trust me, it’s worth the wait!
Best Grilled Buffalo Chicken Wings
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 pounds chicken wings
- 1 cup buffalo sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 25-30 minutes to grill. In total, you’re looking at roughly 40 minutes to have your tasty buffalo chicken wings ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This will help ensure that your chicken wings cook evenly and get that tasty crispy texture.
2. Prepare the Chicken Wings:
In a large bowl, add the chicken wings and pour in the olive oil. Use your hands or a spatula to mix them well, making sure every wing is nicely coated with the oil. This helps in getting the skin crispy while grilling.
3. Season the Wings:
If you like a bit of extra flavor, sprinkle some salt and pepper over the wings and mix well. This step is optional, but it can really enhance the taste!
4. Grill the Wings:
Place the seasoned wings on the preheated grill. Grill them for about 20-25 minutes, turning them occasionally. You want them to be golden brown and crispy, so keep an eye on them, flipping as needed.
5. Add the Buffalo Sauce:
In the last 5 minutes of grilling, take your buffalo sauce and brush it generously over the wings. This allows the sauce to caramelize a bit while they finish cooking, creating a delicious finish!
6. Finish and Toss:
Once the wings are cooked and crispy, take them off the grill. If you have any remaining buffalo sauce, toss the wings in it for even more flavor. This step ensures every bite is packed with that spicy goodness!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your buffalo wings hot, with a little extra buffalo sauce on the side if you like things spicy! They go perfectly with celery sticks and blue cheese dressing for dipping. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Wings for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw the frozen chicken wings completely before grilling. The best way to do this is by placing them in the refrigerator overnight or using a cold water bath (keep them in a sealed plastic bag). Avoid using the microwave as it can cook the wings unevenly.
What If I Don’t Have Buffalo Sauce?
No problem! You can easily make your own buffalo sauce by mixing hot sauce with melted butter. Combine about 1 part hot sauce to 1 part melted butter for a simple substitute. Adjust to taste for more heat or richness!
Can I Make These Wings in the Oven Instead of on the Grill?
Absolutely! Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and place the seasoned wings on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 40-45 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they’re crispy. Brush the buffalo sauce on during the last 5-10 minutes of baking.
How Should I Store Leftover Grilled Buffalo Chicken Wings?
Store any leftover wings in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or until heated through—this will help restore their crispiness!
