Description
This classic Buffalo Chicken recipe features tender, juicy chicken breasts or thighs coated in a spicy Buffalo sauce. Perfect for game day or a quick dinner, the chicken is first seared to golden perfection and then baked to lock in the flavors. Tossed in a buttery hot sauce blend, it can be served on its own or with a variety of toppings and sides like celery sticks and blue cheese dressing.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Seasonings
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Buffalo Sauce
- 1/2 cup Buffalo hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Optional Toppings
- Chopped green onions
- Blue cheese or ranch dressing
- Celery sticks
Instructions
- Preheat and Season: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Pat the chicken dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear. Season both sides of the chicken evenly with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper to build layers of flavor.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken and sear for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until it develops a light golden crust. This will lock in juices and enhance the texture before baking.
- Bake the Chicken: Transfer the skillet with the chicken directly to the preheated oven. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) to ensure the chicken is fully cooked. Remove the skillet from the oven and allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes to redistribute its juices.
- Make the Buffalo Sauce: While the chicken rests, combine unsalted butter and Buffalo hot sauce in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir continuously until the butter melts completely and the sauce is warm, smooth, and well combined.
- Toss and Serve: Slice or shred the rested chicken, then toss it thoroughly in the warm Buffalo sauce until completely coated. Serve the Buffalo chicken solo or with optional toppings such as chopped green onions, blue cheese or ranch dressing, and celery sticks. It also works great in sandwiches, wraps, tacos, salads, or atop rice or baked potatoes.
Notes
- For a faster preparation, substitute with precooked rotisserie chicken and gently heat it in the Buffalo sauce.
- You can alternatively grill or slow-cook the chicken if preferred, adjusting the cooking times accordingly.
- Adjust the hot sauce quantity to control the spice level to your liking.
- Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
