– **Title**: Spice Rubbed Buffalo Chicken Thighs Drizzled In Sauce
– **Ingredients**:
– 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup buffalo sauce (plus extra for drizzling)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
– **Instructions**:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, combine garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper to create the spice rub.
3. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels and place them in a large bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and toss to coat evenly.
4. Sprinkle the spice rub over the chicken thighs, ensuring they are well-coated on all sides.
5. Place the seasoned chicken thighs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, skin-side up.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the skin is crispy.
7. During the last 5 minutes of baking, brush the thighs with buffalo sauce.
8. Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes.
9. Drizzle additional buffalo sauce over the chicken thighs before serving and garnish with chopped parsley.
Enjoy your flavorful and spicy buffalo chicken thighs!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Bone-in and skin-on thighs are juicy and full of flavor. If you’re looking for a leaner option, chicken breasts can work, but they won’t be as moist. I recommend using dark meat for this dish because it holds up better with grilling and has more flavor.
Olive Oil: This adds healthy fat and helps the spices stick. If you’re out of olive oil, try canola or avocado oil. Both have a mild flavor and can withstand high heat, which is perfect for grilling.
Spices: The spice mix really brings the heat! If you want it less spicy, reduce cayenne. You can also substitute smoked paprika with regular paprika or even chili powder if you prefer. I love a smoky flavor, so I stick with smoked paprika.
Buffalo Sauce: You can use store-bought buffalo sauce for convenience. If you’d like to make it milder, mix it with a little ranch dressing or yogurt. Some like to add honey for a sweet kick, which balances out the heat!
How Do I Get Perfectly Seasoned Chicken Thighs?
Getting your chicken thighs seasoned just right is key to tasty results. Start by patting the chicken dry; this removes moisture and helps the rub stick. Don’t rush the seasoning!
- Mix your spice rub well for an even flavor. Use your hands to rub it onto every surface of the chicken. The more thorough you are, the tastier it will be.
- Let the chicken sit for about 15-30 minutes before cooking. This allows the spices to penetrate the meat, enhancing the flavor.
Delicious Spice Rubbed Buffalo Chicken Thighs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Spice Rub:
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Serving:
- ¼ cup buffalo sauce (for drizzling)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and about 30-35 minutes to cook. You’ll spend a few minutes mixing the spices and rubbing them on the chicken, then just let it cook on the grill or in the oven. A total of 45-50 minutes for a delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill or Oven:
Start by preheating your grill or oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures your chicken cooks perfectly and gets that lovely crispy skin!
2. Make the Spice Rub:
In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, chili powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined. This spice rub is going to add fantastic flavor to your chicken!
3. Prepare the Chicken Thighs:
Take your chicken thighs and pat them dry with a paper towel. This helps the spice rub stick better. Now, rub the spice mixture all over the chicken thighs, making sure to cover every part for maximum flavor.
4. Cook the Chicken:
Place the seasoned chicken thighs on the grill or on a baking sheet if you’re using the oven. Grill for about 25-30 minutes or bake in the oven for 30-35 minutes. Remember to turn them halfway through cooking so everything cooks evenly. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
5. Rest the Chicken:
Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken from the grill or oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. This helps keep it juicy and flavorful!
6. Drizzle and Garnish:
Now comes the fun part! Drizzle the buffalo sauce over the chicken thighs. Don’t be shy! Then, sprinkle some chopped parsley on top for a fresh touch.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your spicy buffalo chicken thighs hot and enjoy every bite. They’re perfect for a cozy dinner or a fun gathering with friends!
Can I Use Skinless Chicken Thighs for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just be aware that skinless thighs may not get as crispy. Also, since they have a bit less fat, you might want to add an additional tablespoon of olive oil to keep them moist while cooking.
What Can I Use Instead of Buffalo Sauce?
If you’re looking for a milder option, try using a combination of barbecue sauce and hot sauce. You can adjust the ratio to your heat preference. For instance, mix 2 tablespoons of barbecue sauce with 1 tablespoon of hot sauce for a flavorful alternative.
How to Store Leftover Chicken Thighs?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can put them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through, which will help maintain their juiciness.
Can I Add More Spice to the Rub?
Absolutely! If you want extra heat, consider adding more cayenne pepper or a pinch of red pepper flakes. You can also try adding some ground cumin or coriander for additional depth in flavor!
