Nothing quite kicks off a summer gathering like BBQ Buffalo Wings. You know, those slightly sticky, spicy, and utterly delicious pieces of chicken that seem to disappear from the platter faster than you can say “wing night”?
I can already picture it: friends gathered around the grill, laughter filling the air, and a glorious spread of dips, celery, and those wings. They’re not just an appetizer; they’re the star of the show, and they pair perfectly with a light beer or a cool soda. And let’s be honest, they make everyone a little happier.
BBQ Buffalo Wings are a classic dish that’s always a hit, whether at a backyard party or a cozy movie night at home. With their irresistible combination of crispy skin and fiery sauce, these wings can easily become your new favorite. You might have tried ordering them at your local pub, but making them at home is a game changer.
This dish centers around chicken wings, coated in a zesty buffalo sauce that’s perfect for dipping. They have roots in Buffalo, New York, but they’ve become a staple across the United States. The beauty of BBQ Buffalo Wings lies not just in the flavors but also in their versatility.
You can enjoy them plain or slathered in sauce, served with celery sticks, or accompanied by your favorite dipping sauce.
To prepare your BBQ Buffalo Wings, here’s what you’ll need:
For the Wings
- 3 pounds chicken wings (if you have whole wings, cut them into sections and discard the wing tips, or save for stock)
- 1½ teaspoons kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Vegetable oil, for the grill
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
For the Seasoned Buffalo Sauce
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- ¼ cup plus 2 tablespoons Frank's Red Hot Original Cayenne Pepper Sauce (or your preferred hot sauce)
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon chili powder
- ¾ teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (for an extra punch)
Getting those wings just right is as enjoyable as it sounds. Once you source your ingredients, you're nearly there. Let’s break down how to create your BBQ Buffalo Wings step by step.
Start by heating your grill to medium-high. This temperature is key to achieving that beautiful crisp on your wings without burning them. While the grill is heating, grab your wings and season them with kosher salt and black pepper. This will enhance the natural flavor of the chicken while allowing the buffalo sauce to shine.
Next, you’ll want to oil the grill grates to prevent your wings from sticking. To do this, take a wad of paper towels, dip it into vegetable oil, and carefully rub it over the grill grate. This not only prevents sticking but also helps to create that nice sear we’re looking for.
Place the seasoned wings on the grill and cover it. Cook them for about 20 minutes, turning them occasionally. You want your wings to become golden brown and crispy. Keep your eyes peeled for any flare-ups; if they happen, move the wings to a cooler part of the grill or reduce the heat slightly. The goal is a lovely, even golden-brown finish without those grill marks.
While those wings are sizzling away, it’s time to whip up your buffalo sauce. In a microwave-safe bowl, mix the butter and minced garlic. Microwave this mixture for about a minute until the butter melts completely. Stir in the hot sauce, salt, onion powder, chili powder, sugar, and Worcestershire sauce. The combination here is fantastic, giving you that heat along with depth of flavor. Set the sauce aside while the wings finish cooking.
Once the wings are fully cooked, dip each one into the prepared buffalo sauce. Make sure they’re well coated but also don’t drown them. For a different twist, you might serve the wings plain with the sauce on the side if you have guests who enjoy more control over their spice level. Serve hot, and watch them disappear!
- Make Ahead: Wings can be seasoned in advance and refrigerated up to 8 hours before grilling.
- Crispiness Tip: For extra crispy wings, broil them for 1-2 minutes after grilling.
- Spicy Adjustment: Adjust the amount of hot sauce to tailor the heat to your preference.
- Choice of Sauce: Feel free to experiment with different sauces, like BBQ or teriyaki, in place of hot sauce.
- Grill Versatility: These wings can also be baked in the oven at 400°F for the same amount of time if a grill isn’t handy.
To store leftover BBQ Buffalo Wings, place them in an airtight container in your refrigerator. They can last for about 3 to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze the wings in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll hold up well for up to 3 months.
- Calories: Approximately 350
- Carbs: 4g
- Fat: 27g
- Protein: 24g
1. Classic Celery and Carrot Sticks: Pair the spicy wings with crunchy veggie sticks to cool down the heat.
2. Creamy Blue Cheese Dip: Smooth and cooling, blue cheese dip is a classic accompaniment.
3. Potato Wedges: Serve with crispy potato wedges for a filling meal.
4. Craft Beer: Nothing shines brighter than a cold craft beer when it comes to enhancing the flavor of spicy wings.
5. Sweet Corn on the Cob: A side of grilled corn drizzled with butter complements the wings perfectly.
1. Turkey Wings: Swap out chicken wings for the leaner turkey wings for a healthier option.
2. Cauliflower Wings: For a vegetarian alternative, use cauliflower florets tossed in the same seasoning and sauce.
3. Dry Rub: If you prefer not to use sauce, try a dry rub with smoked paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne for a spice alternative.
4. Different Hot Sauce: If Frank’s isn't to your taste, any hot sauce will work—experiment with your favorites!
5. Honey or Maple Syrup: For a sweet against the heat, drizzle honey or maple syrup instead of sugar in your sauce.
BBQ Buffalo Wings are more than just a crowd-pleaser; they’re a delicious way to enjoy gatherings, celebrate victories, or just indulge after a long day. The beauty lies in their simplicity—tender chicken wings kissed with heat, ready for dipping or devouring. Give this recipe a try and get ready to impress your friends, family, and maybe even yourself with your newfound grilling skills. Happy grilling!
BBQ Buffalo Wings are a classic dish that’s always a hit, whether at a backyard party or a cozy movie night at home. With their irresistible combination of crispy skin and fiery sauce, these wings can easily become your new favorite. You might have tried ordering them at your local pub, but making them at home is a game changer.
Servings 6
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
- Make Ahead: Wings can be seasoned in advance and refrigerated up to 8 hours before grilling.
- Crispiness Tip: For extra crispy wings, broil them for 1-2 minutes after grilling.
- Spicy Adjustment: Adjust the amount of hot sauce to tailor the heat to your preference.
- Choice of Sauce: Feel free to experiment with different sauces, like BBQ or teriyaki, in place of hot sauce.
- Grill Versatility: These wings can also be baked in the oven at 400°F for the same amount of time if a grill isn’t handy.
Martha Adams is a registered dietitian and the creator of Cheap Delicious Meals, a blog focused on making healthy, tasty, and affordable meals accessible to all. With over a decade of experience, Martha combines her expertise in nutrition with a passion for budget-friendly cooking. Her goal is to inspire people to eat well without overspending.