There’s nothing quite like the tantalizing aroma of grilled chicken wafting through the backyard during summer. I can still recall the joy of hosting friends, the laughter mingling with the sizzle of chicken on the barbecue. This Ultimate Barbecue Buffalo Chicken recipe is my go-to for those gatherings, delivering the perfect blend of fiery flavor and tender juiciness. Coated in a spicy hot sauce and paired with a creamy blue cheese slaw, it’s an irresistible dish that brings everyone to the table.
With minimal prep and maximum taste, this buffalo chicken not only satisfies your cravings but also transforms any dinner into a memorable feast. Whether it’s a casual weeknight meal or a summer cookout with friends, this recipe has you covered. Grab your favorite hot sauce and let’s dive into creating a dish that is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser!
Why is Buffalo Chicken the Ultimate Dish?
Irresistible Flavor: The vibrant mix of spicy hot sauce and savory chicken creates a taste sensation that’s hard to beat.
Quick Prep Time: With minimal marinating and grilling, you can have this dish ready in under an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: This classic recipe is perfect for gatherings! Friends and family will come back for seconds and thirds.
Versatile Side Dish: Paired with creamy blue cheese slaw, it offers a delightful crunch that complements the fiery chicken beautifully.
Customizable Heat Level: Adjust the spiciness by varying the hot sauce or cayenne pepper, catering to all your guests’ preferences.
Perfect for Summer: Experience the joy of outdoor cooking; this dish is a highlight of every summer barbecue!
Buffalo Chicken Ingredients
For the Chicken
• Whole Chicken (1.2kg) – Acts as the main protein; ensure a fresh bird for the best flavor.
• Cider Vinegar (4 tbsp) – Provides acidity to tenderize meat and flavor; apple cider vinegar makes a great substitute.
• Olive Oil (2 tbsp) – Adds richness and aids in marination; can be replaced with vegetable oil if needed.
• Garlic (1 clove, crushed) – Enhances flavor; fresh garlic is recommended for better aroma.
• Black Peppercorns (½ tsp, ground) – Adds spice; alternatively, use pre-ground black pepper.
• Sea Salt Flakes (1 tbsp) – Enhances overall taste; kosher salt can be used as an alternative.
• Cayenne Pepper (1 tsp) – Provides heat to the dish; adjust quantity for lower spice levels.
• Smoked Paprika (1 tbsp) – Adds a smoky flavor profile; regular paprika can be used as an alternative.
• Butter (50g) – Adds richness to the buffalo sauce; substitute with margarine for a dairy-free version.
• Cayenne-based Hot Sauce (148ml, e.g., Frank’s RedHot) – Main flavoring component in the sauce; choose your hot sauce based on preferred heat levels.
For the Slaw
• Hard Blue Cheese (75g) – A key flavoring for the slaw; can be swapped with feta or goat cheese for a milder flavor.
• Soured Cream (100g) – Provides creaminess in the slaw; Greek yogurt can be a healthy alternative.
• Mayonnaise (50g) – Contributes to the slaw’s richness; light mayo or vegan mayo can be used as substitutes.
• English Mustard (1 tsp) – Adds tanginess; Dijon mustard can be a suitable replacement.
• Lemon Juice (squeeze) – Brightens the slaw’s flavor; use fresh lemon juice for the best taste.
• Celery Sticks (4-6) – Adds crunch to the slaw; other crunchy vegetables, like carrots, can be used instead.
• Green Pepper (1, finely sliced) – Provides sweetness and color in the slaw; substitute with bell pepper if needed.
• Red Onion (½, finely sliced) – Adds sharp flavor; shallots can be a milder alternative.
• Chives (½ small bunch, finely chopped) – For garnish and added mild onion flavor; green onions can also work well.
How to Make Buffalo Chicken
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Prepare the Chicken: Use kitchen scissors to carefully remove the backbone of the whole chicken. Then, flatten it by pressing down on both sides with your palm to ensure even cooking.
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Marinate: In a bowl, whisk together cider vinegar, olive oil, garlic, black pepper, salt, cayenne pepper, and smoked paprika. Coat the chicken thoroughly with the marinade, then cover and chill skin-side down in the refrigerator for 1 hour (but no longer than 2 hours to prevent over-tenderizing).
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Set Up the Barbecue: Preheat your barbecue for 40-60 minutes. This allows the coals to become ashen, giving you controlled heat for optimal cooking.
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Cook the Chicken: Place the marinated chicken on the grill skin-side down over medium heat. Grill for approximately 10 minutes until the skin turns golden brown. Then, flip the chicken and move it to indirect heat, covering it for another 40-50 minutes, until the juices run clear or the internal temperature reaches 70°C (160°F).
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Make the Slaw: In a large bowl, crumble the hard blue cheese. Stir in the soured cream, mayonnaise, English mustard, and lemon juice until combined. Fold in the chopped celery, green pepper, red onion, and chives. Chill the slaw in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.
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Prepare Buffalo Sauce: Once the chicken is off the grill, heat the butter and hot sauce in a small saucepan until smooth and combined. Brush the buffalo sauce generously over the chicken and let it rest for about 10 minutes before carving.
Optional: Serve with a sprinkle of extra chives or a drizzle of additional hot sauce for added flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Buffalo Chicken?
Elevate your summer gathering with delightful sides that perfectly complement the bold flavors of your buffalo chicken.
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Grilled Corn on the Cob: The sweet, smoky flavor of charred corn balances the spiciness of the chicken, making each bite a joy. Serve it slathered with butter and a sprinkle of sea salt for a delectable crunch.
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Creamy Potato Salad: This classic favorite, with its rich mayonnaise dressing and tender potatoes, provides a cool contrast to the fiery chicken. Toss in some fresh herbs for an added burst of flavor that will have everyone reaching for more.
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Garden Salad: A light, refreshing garden salad adds a crisp, refreshing element to your meal. Crisp lettuce, juicy tomatoes, and crunchy cucumbers make the perfect palate cleanser between bites of fiery buffalo goodness.
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Coleslaw: Another slaw variation offers a wonderful crunch that pairs well with the buffalo sauce. The vinegar-based dressing adds tang, enhancing the overall flavor experience.
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Sweet Tea or Lemonade: Cool down the heat with a glass of homemade sweet tea or refreshing lemonade. These drinks not only quench your thirst but also add a homey feel to your summer feast.
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Chocolate Chip Cookies: End your meal on a sweet note! The warm, gooey chocolate in these cookies provides a comforting finish after the spicy kick of the buffalo chicken, leaving everyone with a smile.
Expert Tips for Perfect Buffalo Chicken
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Marinate Wisely: Don’t exceed 2 hours for marinating; too long can lead to overly tender chicken due to the vinegar.
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Preheat the Grill: Always preheat your barbecue properly for 40-60 minutes to avoid flare-ups and ensure even cooking for your buffalo chicken.
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Check Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 70°C (160°F) for juicy, safe-to-eat results.
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Adjust the Heat: Feel free to modify the cayenne pepper and hot sauce based on personal heat preferences, making the dish appealing for all guests.
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Cool the Slaw: Chill your slaw until ready to serve; this enhances the flavors and gives a refreshing crunch alongside the spicy chicken.
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Rest Before Serving: Allow the chicken to rest after grilling for about 10 minutes before carving. This helps juices redistribute for optimal tenderness.
Storage Tips for Buffalo Chicken
Fridge: Store leftover buffalo chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This helps retain moisture and flavor, so it’s just as delicious when you’re ready to enjoy it again.
Freezer: If you want to save your buffalo chicken for later, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, or store in freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: For best results, reheat the chicken in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through. This will keep the skin crispy—just like when it was first grilled!
Slaw Storage: The creamy blue cheese slaw can be kept in the fridge for up to 2 days in a separate container. Stir before serving, as the flavors will develop further over time.
Make Ahead Options
These Buffalo Chicken delights are perfect for busy weeknights when time is of the essence! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring it absorbs all those spicy flavors. Additionally, you can prepare the creamy blue cheese slaw up to 2 days before serving; just mix and refrigerate in an airtight container. To maintain the slaw’s crunch, keep the vegetables separate until you’re ready to serve. When the time comes to cook, simply grill the marinated chicken and brush it with the homemade buffalo sauce once done. You’ll enjoy the same delicious taste with minimal hassle and maximum flavor!
Buffalo Chicken Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine by customizing this beloved recipe with delightful twists!
- Dairy-Free: Substitute blue cheese with vegan cheese in the slaw for a creamy, dairy-free option that doesn’t skimp on taste.
- Extra Crunch: Add shredded carrots or cabbage to the slaw for an extra crunch and a vibrant pop of color.
- Herb-Infused: Toss in fresh herbs like dill or parsley to the slaw for a refreshing burst of flavor that complements the chicken beautifully.
- Honey Sweetness: Drizzle some honey over the hot sauce before brushing it onto the chicken for a hint of sweetness that balances the spice.
- Spicy Kick: For real heat lovers, mix in a tablespoon of sriracha or your favorite hot sauce into the buffalo sauce for an extra fiery punch.
- Citrus Zing: Incorporate zest from an orange or lime into the slaw to elevate the flavor profile with a fruity brightness.
- Mediterranean Flair: Use feta cheese instead of blue cheese for the slaw to give it a Mediterranean twist while keeping that delightful creaminess.
- Smokey BBQ Variance: Instead of the traditional buffalo sauce, marinate with your favorite smoky barbecue sauce for a delicious twist on flavor.
Explore these variations to make this buffalo chicken truly your own!
Buffalo Chicken Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting a whole chicken, look for one that feels firm and has a clean, fresh smell. The skin should be smooth and free from dark spots or blemishes. Aim for a chicken around 1.2 kg for the best balance between tenderness and flavor.
How should I store leftover buffalo chicken?
Store leftover buffalo chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This helps to preserve both moisture and flavor. If you choose to freeze it, closely wrap the chicken in plastic wrap and then foil, or place it in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
Can I freeze buffalo chicken?
Yes, you can! To freeze buffalo chicken, allow it to cool completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, or use a freezer-safe bag. Label it and place it in the freezer for up to 3 months. For reheating, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before warming it in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 20-25 minutes until heated through.
What if my chicken turns out dry?
If your buffalo chicken ends up a bit dry, it may be due to overcooking or not enough marination time. Always use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 70°C (160°F) and let the chicken rest for about 10 minutes before cutting. This helps keep the juices locked in!
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely! You can easily make this delicious buffalo chicken dairy-free by using a dairy-free butter alternative in the buffalo sauce and replacing the hard blue cheese in the slaw with a vegan cheese blend or nutritional yeast for flavor. The rest of the recipe remains the same, ensuring no one misses out on a flavorful experience!
How long does the blue cheese slaw stay fresh?
The creamy blue cheese slaw will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, to maintain the freshest taste and texture, it’s best to stir it before serving, as the ingredients can settle.
Savory Buffalo Chicken with Creamy Blue Cheese Slaw Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Use kitchen scissors to carefully remove the backbone of the whole chicken. Then, flatten it by pressing down on both sides with your palm to ensure even cooking.
- In a bowl, whisk together cider vinegar, olive oil, garlic, black pepper, salt, cayenne pepper, and smoked paprika. Coat the chicken thoroughly with the marinade, then cover and chill skin-side down in the refrigerator for 1 hour (but no longer than 2 hours to prevent over-tenderizing).
- Preheat your barbecue for 40-60 minutes. This allows the coals to become ashen, giving you controlled heat for optimal cooking.
- Place the marinated chicken on the grill skin-side down over medium heat. Grill for approximately 10 minutes until the skin turns golden brown. Then, flip the chicken and move it to indirect heat, covering it for another 40-50 minutes, until the juices run clear or the internal temperature reaches 70°C (160°F).
- In a large bowl, crumble the hard blue cheese. Stir in the soured cream, mayonnaise, English mustard, and lemon juice until combined. Fold in the chopped celery, green pepper, red onion, and chives. Chill the slaw in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.
- Once the chicken is off the grill, heat the butter and hot sauce in a small saucepan until smooth and combined. Brush the buffalo sauce generously over the chicken and let it rest for about 10 minutes before carving.