Unleash a whirlwind of flavors with these Buffalo Chicken Thighs, perfectly seasoned and baked to achieve that desirable crispy skin, all while infused with the tantalizing heat of buffalo sauce. This recipe is a surefire way to elevate your chicken game, whether you’re prepping for a casual dinner or a game-day feast. Let’s dive into creating this spicy, crispy treat.
Ingredients:
- Chicken Thighs (bone-in & skin-on preferred for maximum crispiness; boneless & skinless thighs can also be used)
- Buffalo Sauce
- Spice Rub:
- Salt
- Black Pepper
- Paprika
- Cayenne Pepper
- Chili Powder
- Garlic Powder
- Onion Powder
Instructions:
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). If you have a wire rack that fits in a baking sheet, use it to allow air to circulate around the chicken, ensuring an even crisp.
- Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Removing moisture from the skin helps it become crispy when cooked.
- Season:
- In a small bowl, mix together your spice rub ingredients: salt, pepper, paprika, cayenne pepper, chili powder, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Rub this spice mixture all over the chicken thighs, ensuring both sides are well-coated. For boneless, skinless thighs, simply ensure the meat is evenly coated.
- Bake:
- Arrange the chicken thighs skin-side up on the wire rack in the baking sheet. If you’re not using a rack, place them directly on the baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easier cleanup.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 35-45 minutes, or until the skin is golden brown and crispy. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) when checked with a meat thermometer.
- Buffalo Sauce Time:
- While the chicken is baking, gently warm your buffalo sauce in a saucepan over low heat or in the microwave. This step is optional but helps the sauce coat the chicken more evenly.
- Once the chicken is cooked and has reached the desired crispiness, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes.
- Combine:
- Toss the baked chicken thighs in the warmed buffalo sauce, ensuring each piece is well-coated. If you prefer, you can brush the sauce over the chicken for a lighter coating.
- Serve:
- Serve your Buffalo Chicken Thighs hot, garnished with some chopped parsley or green onions for a pop of color. These are perfect alongside celery sticks, carrot sticks, and your choice of ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping.
These Buffalo Chicken Thighs offer a delightful blend of crispy skin, tender meat, and a spicy kick from the buffalo sauce. They’re bound to be a hit for any spicy food lover looking for a satisfying crunch and a burst of flavor. Enjoy this easy, mouth-watering dish that promises to be a staple at your dinner table or at any gathering.
