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Slow Cooker Buffalo Wings

Slow Cooker Buffalo Wings - Gourmet And Food

I’ll be honest; there’s something magical about the smell of buffalo wings wafting through the house. The moment I pull the lid off my slow cooker, a wave of spicy, savory scent sweeps over me and anyone else lucky enough to be nearby.
This recipe is not just a meal; it’s an experience—perfect for game days, family gatherings, or any casual get-together. The beauty of slow cooker buffalo wings is their simplicity. Toss the ingredients into the slow cooker, set it, and forget it while you indulge in life’s little pleasures.
I’ve often turned to this recipe when I need something that offers both flavor and ease. It combines tender, juicy chicken wings with a tangy sauce that’s not just hot but layered with flavors. 
The use of a slow cooker means less hands-on time, allowing you to engage with your guests. Plus, leftovers (if you have any!) are just as delightful.
You’re probably wondering about the ingredients. I’ve made a few tweaks over the years to perfect this dish. Hot chili sauce adds instant flavor and heat, while the hot pepper sauce brings that extra kick.
The blend of garlic and onion powders, along with oregano, gives a nice depth to the sauce. And hey, a tablespoon of honey sweetens the deal, balancing that spice perfectly. Now, let’s roll up our sleeves and get cooking!
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 10 minutes
Servings: 8
Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: American
Calories: 376
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound chicken wing sections, thawed
  • 1 bottle of hot chili sauce
  • 1 bottle of spicy pepper sauce
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 1/2 cup clarified butter
  • 2 tablespoons of Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 teaspoons garlic powder
  • 2 teaspoons onion powder
  • 2 teaspoons dried oregano
  • 1 tablespoon honey

Method
 

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
  1. Let’s start with the basics. Gather all your ingredients and ensure you have your slow cooker plugged in and ready to roll. Thaw your chicken wings if they’re frozen. Nothing beats the flavor of thawed, fresh wings.
Step 2: Mix the Sauce
  1. Grab a large bowl. Combine the hot chili sauce, spicy pepper sauce, unsalted butter, clarified butter, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, and honey. 
    Trust me when I say this mix is where the magic happens. It’s a sweet and spicy blend that, when heated, becomes a sauce like no other.
Step 3: Add Wings to Slow Cooker
  1. Place your thawed chicken wing sections into the slow cooker. Don’t be shy; pile them high! Then, pour your sauce over the wings, coating each piece thoroughly. Make sure every wing is swimming in that tasty concoction.
Step 4: Set Cooking Time
  1. Cover your slow cooker and set it on low for about 6-8 hours. If you’re in a hurry, you can set it to high for 3-4 hours, but low and slow yields the best results. 
    The wings will soak up the sauce beautifully and become incredibly tender.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
  1. Once the cooking time is up, check the wings. They should be tender and easily pulled from the bone. Give them a gentle stir to coat them in the sauce one last time. 
    For extra crispiness, you can toss them under the broiler for a few minutes. Serve them hot with celery, carrots, and your choice of dipping sauce.

Notes

  • Chicken Wing Sections: These are typically split into three parts—the drumette, flat, and tip. The drumettes are meatier, while the flats have a bit more skin, making for a delightful bite.
  • Hot Chili Sauce: You can’t go wrong with a classic. Choose your favorite brand, but don't be afraid to experiment if you're feeling bold.
  • Spicy Pepper Sauce: For those who can handle the heat, this sauce is a great addition to kick up the spice level. I personally love using a good Louisiana-style hot sauce.
  • Unsalted Butter: The unsalted variety gives you more control over the salt levels in your dish. Plus, it allows the flavors of the other ingredients to shine.
  • Clarified Butter: This is butter with the milk solids removed. It has a higher smoke point which makes it perfect for slow cooking.
  • Worcestershire Sauce: A little goes a long way. It enhances flavors and adds a lovely umami touch to your wings.
  • Honey: The sweetness from the honey works wonders to balance the heat in the sauce.