Grilled buffalo wings are a delicious alternative to the traditional fried version, offering the same bold flavors with a smoky twist. Marinated in a spicy buffalo sauce and grilled to perfection, these wings are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re hosting a game day party or simply craving a tasty snack, these grilled buffalo wings are sure to be a hit with everyone.
Preparation Time:
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Marinating time: 1 hour (optional)
- Cook time: 20-25 minutes
- Total time: 30-35 minutes (plus marinating time)
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds (900g) chicken wings, split at joints, tips removed
- 1/4 cup (60ml) hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Ranch or blue cheese dressing, for serving
- Celery sticks, for serving
- Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)
- Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
- In a large bowl, combine the hot sauce, melted butter, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Whisk until the ingredients are well combined to create the buffalo sauce.
2. Marinate the Chicken Wings:
- Add the chicken wings to the bowl of buffalo sauce, tossing until they are evenly coated.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for maximum flavor. (Note: If you’re short on time, you can skip the marinating step and proceed directly to grilling.)
3. Preheat the Grill:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
4. Grill the Chicken Wings:
- Remove the chicken wings from the marinade and shake off any excess sauce.
- Place the wings on the preheated grill and cook for 10-12 minutes per side, or until they are cooked through and have nice grill marks.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature of the wings reaches 165°F (74°C).
5. Serve:
- Transfer the grilled buffalo wings to a serving platter.
- Serve hot with ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping, along with celery sticks and lemon wedges on the side.
- Garnish with chopped cilantro or parsley, if desired.
Cooking Tips:
- For extra crispy wings, you can grill them over indirect heat for the first 10 minutes, then move them directly over the heat to finish cooking.
- If you prefer your wings extra spicy, you can add more hot sauce to the marinade or serve additional hot sauce on the side for dipping.
- Make sure to oil the grill grates well to prevent the wings from sticking.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Bold and Spicy Flavor: The buffalo sauce adds a delicious kick to the wings, making them irresistible to spice lovers.
- Healthier Alternative: Grilling the wings instead of frying reduces the amount of oil used, making this a lighter option without sacrificing flavor.
- Perfect for Parties: Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or a game day gathering, these grilled buffalo wings are sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Conclusion:
Grilled buffalo wings are a tasty twist on a classic favorite, offering the same bold flavors with a smoky grilled finish. With their crispy exterior and tender interior, these wings are perfect for any occasion, from casual cookouts to game day parties. Fire up the grill and treat yourself to the deliciousness of homemade grilled buffalo wings today!