When summer rolls around, I’m usually dreaming of bright salads, grilling outdoors, and sipping iced tea on the patio. Yet, let’s be real – nothing satisfies quite like a hearty baked buffalo chicken. Picture this: crispy edges, juicy inside, and oh that spicy kick!
What I appreciate most? It pairs so perfectly with sides like creamy coleslaw, fresh corn on the cob, or a zesty potato salad. That’s a spread I could get used to!
Baked buffalo chicken is a dish that has earned its spot in the hearts (and stomachs) of many. It’s the right mix of spice and satisfaction. Whether for a casual family dinner or a gathering with friends, it never disappoints.
Plus, the delightful crunch from the baked chicken combined with the rich buffalo sauce makes for a flavor explosion that dances across the taste buds.
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What is Baked Buffalo Chicken Recipe?
This dish features chicken breasts baked to juicy perfection, slathered in a homemade buffalo sauce that layers flavor without overwhelming spice. It’s easy to prepare, and the homemade sauce offers that beloved kick without the extra preservatives often found in store-bought sauces.
What Makes This Recipe Different From Other Baked Buffalo Chicken Recipes?
What sets my version apart? I’ve swapped some traditional ingredients for a healthier approach. I’ve cut back on the butter and added honey for a hint of sweetness, balancing the heat perfectly. Plus, using fresh ingredients like lime juice and minced garlic elevates the flavor profile, making it not just another buffalo chicken recipe.
How Does It Taste Like?
Baked buffalo chicken is a delightful meld of spicy, tangy, and slightly sweet flavors. The initial heat from the buffalo sauce quickly transforms into a mellow richness from the butter and honey, making every bite deeply satisfying.
Ingredients You’ll Need To Make This Dish
To whip up this tasty dish, gather the following ingredients:
– 4 large boneless skinless chicken breasts
– 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup Frank’s Red Hot Sauce
– 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 3 tablespoons honey, adjust to taste
– Juice of ½ lime
– 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
– ½ teaspoon onion powder
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (new addition for added tang)
– Optional: crumbled feta cheese for garnish
Ingredients From : theforkedspoon.com
How to Make Baked Buffalo Chicken Recipe
Let’s dive into preparing this delightful dish! Below are the step-by-step instructions that will guide you to success.
Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it warms, grab a large 11 x 8-inch baking dish and spray it generously with non-stick cooking spray. This will help prevent any pesky sticking later.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish. Drizzle the olive oil over the chicken, ensuring each piece gets a light coating. Season with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder, making sure to sprinkle it on both sides for even flavoring.
Step 3: Make the Buffalo Sauce
In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the Frank’s Red Hot Sauce, melted butter, honey, lime juice, minced garlic, onion powder, and apple cider vinegar. Taste the sauce and feel free to adjust it with more honey for sweetness or spices for an extra kick.
Step 4: Coat the Chicken
Pour your beautifully mixed buffalo sauce over the chicken breasts. Use kitchen tongs to flip each chicken breast, coating them thoroughly with the sauce. Every inch should bask in that glorious flavor!
Step 5: Bake the Chicken
Cover your baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and slide it into the oven. Bake for 20 minutes. After this initial baking time, carefully remove the foil, allowing the chicken to brown. Continue baking for another 5 to 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reads 160°F (71°C) – use a digital meat thermometer for accuracy.
Step 6: Rest Before Serving
Once baked to perfection, take the dish out of the oven and give the chicken a chance to rest for at least 5 minutes. This will help the juices redistribute, ensuring that you’re serving up tender, flavorful chicken.
Tips & Tricks On Making Baked Buffalo Chicken Recipe
– Choose Quality Chicken: Fresh, higher-quality chicken breasts lead to a more flavorful result.
– Marinate for Extra Flavor: If time permits, let the chicken sit in the buffalo sauce for an hour or even overnight for deeper flavor.
– Adjust Spice Level: For those who prefer less heat, consider mixing in a few tablespoons of plain yogurt into your buffalo sauce; it’ll still pack flavor without the fire!
– Garnish Creatively: Top with fresh herbs or crumbled feta cheese post-baking for an additional flavor layer.
– Perfectly Cooked Chicken: A digital meat thermometer is your best friend. It helps prevent overcooking and guarantees juicy chicken every time.
How Do I Store This Dish?
Once cooled, store leftover baked buffalo chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat in the oven or microwave when you’re ready to dive back in. It also makes for excellent meal prep!
Serving Suggestions
– With a Side Salad: Pair it with a crisp garden salad for a refreshing contrast.
– Wrap It Up: Serve it inside a whole wheat tortilla for a hearty wrap.
– Add a Grain: Serve over quinoa or brown rice to soak up the extra sauce.
– Buffalo Chicken Tacos: Shred the chicken and create buffalo chicken tacos topped with slaw.
– Cheesy Goodness: Top with shredded cheese before serving, and pop it back in the oven until melted.
What Other Substitute Can I Use in Baked Buffalo Chicken Recipe?
– Chicken Thighs: Use bone-in or skin-on thighs for a juicier flavor.
– Hot Sauce Variations: Swap out Frank’s Red Hot with your favorite hot sauce; try a garlic-flavored hot sauce for a new twist.
– Butter Alternatives: Substitute with olive oil or a vegan butter alternative for a lighter version.
– Honey Substitute: Agave nectar can be used if you’re aiming to keep this dish higher in fiber.
– Vegan Option: Try using cauliflower steaks or chickpeas in place of chicken for a plant-based alternative; adjust cooking times accordingly.
Conclusion
Baked buffalo chicken is a true crowd-pleaser. This easy-to-prepare dish combines beloved flavors that resonate with everyone, from kids to adults. Whether it’s game day, a summer barbecue, or just a Wednesday night dinner, you can rely on this recipe to deliver satisfaction every single time.
So grab that baking dish and get ready to wow your taste buds!
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Baked Buffalo Chicken Recipe – Gourmet And Food
Description
Baked buffalo chicken is a dish that has earned its spot in the hearts (and stomachs) of many. It’s the right mix of spice and satisfaction. Whether for a casual family dinner or a gathering with friends, it never disappoints.
Ingredients
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
-
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it warms, grab a large 11 x 8-inch baking dish and spray it generously with non-stick cooking spray. This will help prevent any pesky sticking later.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
-
Place the chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish. Drizzle the olive oil over the chicken, ensuring each piece gets a light coating. Season with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder, making sure to sprinkle it on both sides for even flavoring.
Step 3: Make the Buffalo Sauce
-
In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the Frank's Red Hot Sauce, melted butter, honey, lime juice, minced garlic, onion powder, and apple cider vinegar. Taste the sauce and feel free to adjust it with more honey for sweetness or spices for an extra kick.
Step 4: Coat the Chicken
-
Pour your beautifully mixed buffalo sauce over the chicken breasts. Use kitchen tongs to flip each chicken breast, coating them thoroughly with the sauce. Every inch should bask in that glorious flavor!
Step 5: Bake the Chicken
-
Cover your baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and slide it into the oven. Bake for 20 minutes. After this initial baking time, carefully remove the foil, allowing the chicken to brown. Continue baking for another 5 to 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reads 160°F (71°C) – use a digital meat thermometer for accuracy.
Step 6: Rest Before Serving
-
Once baked to perfection, take the dish out of the oven and give the chicken a chance to rest for at least 5 minutes. This will help the juices redistribute, ensuring that you're serving up tender, flavorful chicken.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 330kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 18g28%
- Saturated Fat 7g35%
- Cholesterol 167mg56%
- Sodium 2760mg115%
- Potassium 854mg25%
- Protein 48g96%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
- Choose Quality Chicken: Fresh, higher-quality chicken breasts lead to a more flavorful result.
- Marinate for Extra Flavor: If time permits, let the chicken sit in the buffalo sauce for an hour or even overnight for deeper flavor.
- Adjust Spice Level: For those who prefer less heat, consider mixing in a few tablespoons of plain yogurt into your buffalo sauce; it’ll still pack flavor without the fire!
- Garnish Creatively: Top with fresh herbs or crumbled feta cheese post-baking for an additional flavor layer.
- Perfectly Cooked Chicken: A digital meat thermometer is your best friend. It helps prevent overcooking and guarantees juicy chicken every time.
