Baked Buffalo Chicken Thighs Recipe

Introduction

Buffalo chicken thighs are a delicious and easy dish that can elevate any meal or gathering. Featuring tender, juicy chicken coated in a flavorful buffalo sauce, this recipe is perfect for fans of spicy flavors. Baked to perfection, these chicken thighs are a healthier alternative to traditional fried wings while maintaining that irresistible crunch. Let’s dive into the ingredients and the cooking process for this mouthwatering dish.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

For the chicken thighs:
– 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs (approximately 8 pieces)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– ½ teaspoon black pepper
– Cooking oil (vegetable or olive oil) for brushing the baking pan

For the buffalo sauce:
– ½ cup hot sauce (e.g., Frank’s Red Hot)
– ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 tablespoon white vinegar
– 1 teaspoon cornstarch
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder

Prep Time

15 minutes

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 servings

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly brush a baking pan with cooking oil to prevent sticking.

Prepare the Flour Mixture

In a shallow dish, combine the all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of salt, and ½ teaspoon of black pepper. Mix well to ensure even seasoning.

Dredge the Chicken

Individually coat each chicken thigh in the seasoned flour mixture, ensuring all sides are evenly covered. Shake off any excess flour.

Arrange on Baking Pan

Place the coated chicken thighs on the prepared baking pan, spacing them evenly to allow for proper cooking.

Bake the Chicken

Transfer the pan to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The exterior should be golden brown and crispy.

Prepare the Buffalo Sauce

While the chicken is baking, combine ½ cup of hot sauce, ¼ cup of melted unsalted butter, 1 tablespoon of white vinegar, 1 teaspoon of cornstarch, 1 teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce, and 1 teaspoon of garlic powder in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir continuously until the mixture is smooth and slightly thickened.

Coat the Chicken

Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the oven. Using tongs, dip each piece into the prepared buffalo sauce, ensuring it’s thoroughly coated.

Serve

Place the sauced chicken thighs on a serving platter. Optionally, garnish with chopped fresh parsley or green onions. Serve immediately, accompanied by celery sticks and blue cheese or ranch dressing for dipping.

Notes

Cooking Oil

Choose a cooking oil with a high smoke point, such as vegetable oil or olive oil, to prevent burning during baking.

Chicken Temperature

Always check that chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety. Use a meat thermometer for accurate readings.

Buffalo Sauce Variations

Feel free to adjust the heat level of the buffalo sauce by adding more or less hot sauce or incorporating additional spices according to your preference.

Serving Suggestions

Consider pairing the chicken thighs with side dishes like carrot sticks, potato wedges, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Baked Buffalo Chicken Thighs Recipe
Baked Buffalo Chicken Thighs Recipe

Cook techniques

Oven Preheating

Preheating the oven ensures even cooking and proper browning of the chicken thighs. It is essential to allow the oven to reach the required temperature before placing the chicken inside.

Coating with Flour

Dredging the chicken thighs in a seasoned flour mixture helps to create a crispy exterior once baked. It is crucial to shake off any excess flour to prevent clumping.

Baking for Crispiness

Baking at a high temperature (400°F) allows the chicken to cook through while forming a golden-brown and crispy surface. Monitor the cooking time to avoid overcooking.

Making Buffalo Sauce

Combine all sauce ingredients in a saucepan and heat until smooth. Stir continuously to ensure even mixing and prevent scorching. This helps achieve the desired sauce consistency.

Coating Chicken with Sauce

Using tongs to dip the baked chicken in the buffalo sauce allows for even coating. Ensure each piece is thoroughly covered for maximum flavor.

FAQ

Can I use bone-in chicken thighs instead of boneless?

Yes, you can use bone-in chicken thighs, but you may need to adjust the cooking time to ensure they cook thoroughly.

What type of hot sauce works best for buffalo sauce?

While Frank’s Red Hot is a popular choice, you can use any hot sauce that you prefer, adjusting the quantity to your desired spice level.

Is it necessary to use cornstarch in the buffalo sauce?

Cornstarch helps to thicken the sauce slightly, but it’s optional. You can omit it if you prefer a thinner sauce.

Can I make the buffalo sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the buffalo sauce in advance. Store it in the refrigerator for up to a week and reheat before using.

What sides pair well with buffalo chicken thighs?

Buffalo chicken thighs pair nicely with side dishes like celery sticks, carrot sticks, coleslaw, or a fresh green salad.

Conclusion

The Buffalo Chicken Thighs recipe provides a delightful combination of crispy texture and spicy flavor. The easy preparation and baking method make it a fantastic option for any home cook. Pairing these chicken thighs with celery sticks and a creamy dip enhances the overall experience, making it perfect for gatherings or a family dinner.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs

Marinate chicken thighs in a mixture of honey, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger before baking. This sweet and savory dish is perfect served over rice.

Barbecue Chicken Thighs

Coat chicken thighs with your favorite barbecue sauce and bake until caramelized. Serve with coleslaw and cornbread for a classic barbecue meal.

Lemon Herb Chicken Thighs

Marinate chicken thighs in lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and fresh herbs before roasting. The brightness of the lemon adds a fresh twist.

Spicy Asian Chicken Thighs

Use a marinade of soy sauce, sriracha, garlic, and sesame oil. Bake and serve with stir-fried vegetables for an Asian-inspired dish.

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Thighs

Coat baked chicken thighs with a mixture of melted butter, garlic, and Parmesan cheese for a rich flavor. Serve with a side of pasta or salad.

Baked Buffalo Chicken Thighs Recipe
Baked Buffalo Chicken Thighs Recipe