baked buffalo chicken thighs

Do you love spicy, juicy chicken that’s perfectly crispy? If so, you’re going too fall head over heels for these Baked buffalo Chicken Thighs! They’re not only easy to make, but they also pack a punch of flavour that’ll have everyone asking for seconds. So, grab your apron, and let’s whip up something delicious together!
Simple Ingredients for delicious Baked Buffalo Chicken Thighs
When it comes to making Baked Buffalo Chicken Thighs, having the right ingredients is key. This dish is all about bold flavors and juicy chicken, so I like to keep it simple but effective. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 4 skin-on, bone-in chicken thighs: These will give you that rich flavor and moisture that makes this dish so satisfying.
- ¾ teaspoon salt: A little salt goes a long way in enhancing the overall taste of the chicken.
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: This adds a touch of heat and depth to the seasoning.
- 1½ teaspoons baking powder: This is my secret ingredient for achieving that perfect crispy skin.
- Olive oil spray: A light coating helps the skin crisp up beautifully in the oven.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: This adds richness to the hot sauce mix.
- ⅓ cup hot sauce (I recommend frank’s® RedHot® Original for the best flavor): You can adjust this to suit your spice preference.
- ½ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce: This adds complexity and a hint of umami.
- ½ teaspoon garlic granules: For that unmistakable garlicky goodness.
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper: Feel free to adjust based on how spicy you want your chicken.
- Romaine lettuce leaves: Perfect for serving and adds a refreshing crunch.
- 1½ cups carrot sticks: These are great for dipping and add a pop of colour.
- 1½ cups celery sticks: Another crunchy option that pairs well with the spicy chicken.
- 1 cup ranch dressing: This classic dipping sauce cools down the heat wonderfully.
- Fresh parsley sprigs for garnish (optional): Adds a nice touch for presentation!
Gather these ingredients, and you’ll be on your way to making a delicious, spicy meal that everyone will love.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Baked Buffalo Chicken Thighs
Ready to cook? Let’s follow these simple steps to make your Baked Buffalo Chicken Thighs come to life! Trust me; it’s straightforward and oh-so-worth it.
- Preheat your oven: Start by warming your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature is what helps achieve that crispy skin!
- Prepare your sheet pan: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.
- Trim and dry the chicken: Use paper towels to pat the chicken thighs dry. This step helps the skin get crispy during baking.
- Season the chicken: In a large resealable bag, combine the salt, pepper, and baking powder. Add the chicken thighs,seal the bag,and shake it to coat the chicken evenly with the seasoning.
- Arrange on the sheet pan: Place the seasoned chicken thighs on the prepared baking sheet, skin side up. Give them a light spray of olive oil for that extra crispiness.
- bake: Pop the pan in the oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes. The chicken should be golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Make the sauce: While the chicken is baking, melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the hot sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic granules, and cayenne pepper. Keep this warm until the chicken is ready.
- Brush with sauce: Once the chicken is done,take it out of the oven and brush the thighs evenly with the hot sauce mixture.
- Serve: Arrange the baked chicken on a bed of Romaine leaves, surrounded by fresh carrot and celery sticks. Don’t forget the ranch dressing for dipping!
Enjoy your flavorful Baked Buffalo Chicken Thighs, and don’t hesitate to share them with family and friends!

Serving and Storage Tips for Baked Buffalo Chicken Thighs
After you’ve made these baked Buffalo Chicken Thighs,you’ll want to know how to serve and store them effectively. Here’s how I like to do it!
serving Suggestions
- Plate it Up: Serve the thighs on a bed of fresh Romaine lettuce for a crunchy base. the coolness of the lettuce pairs perfectly with the spicy chicken.
- Add Crunchy Veggies: Include carrot and celery sticks on the side.Not only do they add a refreshing bite, but they also help to balance out the heat from the buffalo sauce.
- Dipping Sauces: I always have ranch dressing ready for dipping. My favourite is Hidden Valley Ranch – it’s creamy and delicious! You can also try a creamy blue cheese dressing if you like a bit of tang.
- Garnish: A sprinkle of fresh parsley over the top not only adds color but also a touch of freshness to each bite.
Storage Tips
- Refrigeration: If you have leftovers, store the chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked chicken thighs. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, and they’ll keep well for up to 3 months. Just remember to label the bag with the date!
- Reheating: when it’s time to enjoy leftovers, you can reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 15-20 minutes. If you’re in a hurry, microwaving them is fine, but the oven helps to keep that crispy skin.
These serving and storage strategies will help you enjoy your Baked Buffalo Chicken Thighs to the fullest, whether you’re serving them for dinner or saving some for later.
Helpful Tips and Troubleshooting for Baked Buffalo Chicken Thighs
Cooking can sometimes come with a few hiccups, but don’t worry – here are some helpful notes and troubleshooting tips for your baked Buffalo Chicken Thighs.
Common Issues and Solutions
- Skin Not Crispy: If your chicken skin isn’t crispy enough, it might be due to excess moisture. Make sure to pat the thighs dry thoroughly before seasoning.Also, giving them a light spray of olive oil can help with crisping up in the oven.
- Sauce Too Spicy: If the hot sauce mix is too spicy for your taste, you can easily adjust it. Mix in some extra butter to the hot sauce to mellow the heat, or consider using a milder hot sauce.
- Chicken Undercooked: Always check the internal temperature to ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C). If it’s not there yet, pop it back in the oven for a few more minutes.An instant-read thermometer is a handy tool for this!
Cooking Tips
- Experiment with Spices: Feel free to play with the seasoning! If you love garlic, add more garlic granules or try a sprinkle of smoked paprika for a different flavor profile.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: For perfectly cooked chicken every time, I highly recommend using an instant-read meat thermometer. It takes the guesswork out of cooking and helps prevent any undercooked or overcooked meat.
These tips should help you troubleshoot any potential issues and make your experience with Baked Buffalo Chicken Thighs enjoyable and successful!