Buffalo-Style Grilled Chicken Wings: A Crowd-Pleasing Favorite

Written by Sarah Gardner

If there’s one dish that’s guaranteed to make everyone happy, it’s Buffalo-style chicken wings. These wings, with their smoky char from the grill and spicy kick from classic Buffalo sauce, hit all the right notes. Grilling adds a layer of flavor you just don’t get from frying, making these wings irresistible. They’re perfect for parties, BBQs, or even a quick dinner when you’re craving something bold and satisfying.

Buffalo Style Grilled Chicken wings

Buffalo-Style Grilled Chicken Wings

Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Appetizer
Cuisine American
Servings 2

Equipment

  • Grill Charcoal or Gas
  • Large Mixing Bowl
  • Tongs
  • Small saucepan
  • Basting brush

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken Wings

  • 2 lbs chicken wings split into drumettes and flats, tips removed
  • 1 tbsp baking powder for crispy skin
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp kosher salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper

For the Buffalo Sauce

  • cup Frank’s RedHot sauce or your favorite hot sauce
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1 tbsp honey optional, for a touch of sweetness
  • 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce

To Serve

  • Ranch or blue cheese dressing
  • Celery and carrot sticks

Instructions
 

Prep the Wings

  1. Pat the wings dry with paper towels. In a large bowl, toss them with baking powder, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. The baking powder helps create that crispy, golden skin.
    mixing bowl containing raw chicken wings

Preheat the Grill

  1. Set up your grill for medium-high heat (around 375–400°F). Oil the grates to prevent sticking.

Grill the Wings

  1. Place the wings on the grill in a single layer. Grill for 8–10 minutes on each side, turning occasionally for even cooking and a slight char. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Make the Buffalo Sauce

  1. While the wings cook, melt the butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir in the hot sauce, honey, and Worcestershire sauce. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until smooth.

Coat the Wings

  1. Once the wings are cooked, transfer them to a large bowl. Pour the Buffalo sauce over the wings and toss until fully coated.
    stainless steel mixing bowl filled with lightly charred, grilled chicken wings

Serve Immediately

  1. Plate the wings with celery, carrots, and your choice of ranch or blue cheese dressing.

Pairings

Buffalo wings pair wonderfully with crisp lagers or IPAs. For a non-alcoholic option, try a sparkling lemonade or iced tea. Want a side? Serve with crispy potato wedges, a simple coleslaw, or even a light garden salad to balance the heat.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen wings?

Absolutely, but make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before seasoning to get that perfect crispy skin.

2. Should I use wingettes or whole wings?

Wingettes and drumettes are more convenient for eating and cooking evenly. However, whole wings work too—just remove the tips for easier grilling.

3. Can I adjust the spice level?

Yes! For milder wings, reduce the hot sauce or add more butter to the sauce. For spicier wings, throw in a pinch of cayenne or a splash of sriracha.

4. What other sauces can I try?

Get creative! Try BBQ, honey mustard, or teriyaki sauces for a twist.

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