These Quick Buffalo Chicken Thighs are packed with flavor and come together in no time! Marinated in a spicy, tangy sauce, they’re sure to please your taste buds.
Who doesn’t love a little kick? I like to serve these with a side of crunchy veggies. It’s the perfect combo for a fun dinner. Trust me, you’ll be reaching for seconds! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Bone-in and skin-on thighs are ideal for this recipe, providing juicy meat and crispy skin. If you’re looking for a lighter option, boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts could work; just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Buffalo Sauce: This brings the heat and flavor! If you’re sensitive to spice, try a milder hot sauce or even a sweet and spicy barbecue sauce for a different take while still keeping it delicious.
Ranch Dressing: Ranch adds creaminess that balances the heat. For a healthier version, opt for Greek yogurt mixed with a bit of herbs and garlic powder. If you’re dairy-free, there are plenty of plant-based ranch dressings available.
Blue Cheese: This is a classic pairing with buffalo chicken. If you aren’t a fan, feta cheese makes a great substitute, or you can skip it altogether for a milder flavor.
How Do You Achieve Crispy Skin on Chicken Thighs?
Getting that perfectly crispy skin is all about the right cooking method and temperature. Here’s how you can do it:
- Start by patting the chicken thighs dry. This removes moisture that can prevent crispiness.
- Season well with salt and pepper before cooking to enhance the flavor.
- Heat olive oil in the skillet until it’s really hot, then place the chicken skin-side down.
- Let it cook undisturbed for about 5-7 minutes. This allows the skin to render fat and get nice and crispy.
- Flip and soak it in the buffalo sauce for flavor while still keeping that crispy skin.
Remember, don’t rush the searing process! Patience is key to getting that desired texture.
Quick Buffalo Chicken Thighs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
- 1/2 cup buffalo sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Topping and Serving:
- 1/4 cup ranch dressing (plus extra for drizzling)
- 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese
- Celery sticks for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish will take about 10 minutes to prepare and 25-30 minutes to cook. In total, you’re looking at about 40 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick meal with a kick!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This will ensure that your chicken cooks thoroughly and gets that delicious crispy skin we all love.
2. Prep the Chicken Thighs:
Next, take your chicken thighs and pat them dry with some paper towels. This helps to get that crispy skin! Then, sprinkle salt and pepper over both sides of the chicken thighs to season them nicely.
3. Sear the Chicken:
Heat up the olive oil in a skillet that is safe for the oven over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the chicken thighs skin-side down. Let them sear for about 5-7 minutes until the skin is crispy and golden brown. This step is key for that wonderful flavor!
4. Add the Buffalo Sauce:
After searing, gently flip the chicken thighs over. Now, pour the buffalo sauce over the top, making sure they are well-coated. You want all that flavor to soak into the chicken!
5. Bake the Chicken:
Now it’s time to transfer the skillet to your preheated oven. Bake the chicken for about 20-25 minutes. To be sure they’re cooked perfectly, check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Add the Finishing Touches:
Once the chicken is done baking, take it out of the oven. Drizzle ranch dressing over the chicken and sprinkle generously with crumbled blue cheese. Yummy!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Now it’s time to enjoy your amazing buffalo chicken thighs! Serve them hot with celery sticks on the side for a classic touch. Dig in and savor the flavors!
Can I Use Boneless Chicken Thighs Instead?
Absolutely! Boneless chicken thighs will work just fine. Just reduce the oven baking time to about 15-20 minutes, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), since they cook faster without the bone.
What If I Don’t Have Buffalo Sauce?
No worries! You can easily make a substitution by mixing hot sauce with a little melted butter to create your own buffalo sauce. For a milder flavor, consider using BBQ sauce mixed with a bit of hot sauce for a sweet and spicy twist!
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through, ensuring the skin stays crispy.
Can I Add More Vegetables to This Dish?
Definitely! Feel free to toss in some broccoli or bell peppers around the chicken before baking for added flavor and nutrition. Just make sure they are cut into similar sizes for even cooking!
