Grilled Buffalo Wings are a classic appetizer that combines the smoky flavor of grilled chicken with the spicy kick of Buffalo sauce. Perfect for gatherings, these wings offer a healthier alternative to traditional deep-fried versions without compromising on taste.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• 3 pounds chicken wings
• 1 cup Frank’s Original Red Hot Sauce
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 jalapeño peppers, finely chopped
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• Salt, to taste
• Vegetable oil, for greasing the grill

Directions

1. Prepare the Buffalo Marinade/Sauce: In a saucepan over medium-low heat, melt the butter. Stir in the hot sauce, minced garlic, chopped jalapeños, and Worcestershire sauce. Simmer for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly. Remove from heat and let it cool.
2. Marinate the Wings: Place the chicken wings in a large bowl or resealable plastic bag. Pour one cup of the cooled Buffalo sauce over the wings, ensuring they are well-coated. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, up to 2 hours.
3. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F). Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
4. Grill the Wings: Remove the wings from the marinade, discarding any excess. Place them on the preheated grill. Cover and cook for approximately 25 minutes, turning occasionally, until the wings are fully cooked and have an internal temperature of 165°F.
5. Toss in Sauce and Serve: Once grilled, toss the wings in the remaining Buffalo sauce. Serve immediately.

Nutritional Information

While the exact nutritional values can vary based on ingredient brands and preparation methods, an approximate per-serving breakdown (assuming 6 servings) is as follows:

• Calories: Approximately 450-500 kcal
• Protein: 30-35g
• Carbohydrates: 10-15g
• Fat: 35-40g
• Saturated Fat: 10-12g
• Cholesterol: 90-100mg
• Sodium: 800-900mg
• Sugar: 2-4g

The Origins of Buffalo Wings

The history of Buffalo wings is as rich as their flavor. This American culinary classic is said to have originated in Buffalo, New York, in 1964 at the Anchor Bar. The story goes that Teressa Bellissimo, the owner of the bar, accidentally created the dish when she was looking for a quick snack for her son and his friends. Using leftover chicken wings, which were typically considered an underutilized cut, she deep-fried them, tossed them in a homemade hot sauce, and served them with celery sticks and blue cheese dressing. The result was an instant hit, and the Buffalo wing was born.

Buffalo wings quickly became a staple at bars, restaurants, and parties across the United States, particularly for their affordability and delicious flavor. The tangy, spicy sauce paired with crispy chicken wings created a perfect balance that many people could not resist. Over the years, Buffalo wings have been adapted and modified in various ways, but the core recipe remains largely the same. They are most commonly served as an appetizer, perfect for sharing with friends and family, or as a part of a larger meal.

The popularity of Buffalo wings has only grown with time, and today, they are enjoyed worldwide. Whether served at a casual gathering or at a more formal event, Buffalo wings remain a favorite appetizer for many.

Why Grilled Buffalo Wings Are a Great Alternative

Grilled Buffalo Wings are an excellent alternative to traditional deep-fried wings for several reasons. First and foremost, grilling offers a healthier cooking method. Deep-frying wings often results in a greasy, calorie-laden dish that can be high in fat. By grilling the wings, you allow the fat to drip away, resulting in a leaner option without sacrificing flavor.

Additionally, grilling provides a unique smoky flavor that deep-frying simply cannot replicate. The direct heat from the grill chars the wings slightly, adding a rich, caramelized taste that enhances the bold flavors of the Buffalo sauce. Grilled wings have a crispy exterior and a tender, juicy interior, creating the perfect bite. The combination of smoky flavor and spicy sauce makes Grilled Buffalo Wings an irresistible treat.

Grilled wings also offer the benefit of being easy to prepare and cook. While deep-frying wings can be messy and require constant attention to avoid overcooking or undercooking, grilling is a more straightforward method. With a preheated grill, the wings can be cooked quickly and evenly, allowing you to focus on preparing the sauce and sides rather than constantly monitoring the cooking process.

Finally, grilling is a fantastic way to enjoy Buffalo wings outdoors. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or tailgating at a sporting event, grilling adds a festive and interactive element to the experience. Guests can watch the wings cook on the grill, adding an element of excitement and anticipation as they wait for the delicious wings to be ready.

Customizing the Heat Level of Grilled Buffalo Wings

One of the best aspects of Grilled Buffalo Wings is how easily you can adjust the level of heat to suit your taste preferences. The heat in Buffalo wings typically comes from hot sauce, with Frank’s RedHot being the most popular choice. However, you can increase or decrease the spiciness by varying the amount of hot sauce you use, or by adding other ingredients to the sauce.

For those who prefer milder wings, you can reduce the amount of hot sauce in the marinade and sauce, or substitute with a milder variety of hot sauce. Alternatively, you can add a touch of honey or brown sugar to balance the heat and create a sweet and spicy flavor profile.

If you like your wings extra spicy, you can increase the amount of hot sauce or add additional ingredients such as crushed red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or diced jalapeños. If you enjoy a truly fiery kick, consider adding some habanero or serrano peppers to the sauce, or use a hot sauce specifically labeled as “extra hot” to take the heat to the next level.

The versatility of the sauce also means you can experiment with different flavors and heat combinations. For instance, you could add garlic powder, onion powder, or smoked paprika to give the wings an extra layer of depth. By adjusting the sauce ingredients, you can create a unique version of Buffalo wings that suits your personal preferences.

Health Benefits of Grilled Buffalo Wings

While Grilled Buffalo Wings are undoubtedly a flavorful indulgence, they also offer several health benefits compared to their deep-fried counterparts. The grilling process helps reduce the amount of fat in the wings by allowing excess fat to drip off during cooking. This results in a leaner and lighter option that is lower in calories and fat than traditional deep-fried wings.

Chicken wings, especially when made with skin-on, are an excellent source of protein. Protein is essential for muscle repair and growth, and it plays a crucial role in maintaining overall health. Grilled wings retain their juiciness and tenderness, providing a satisfying and protein-packed snack or meal.

The Buffalo sauce itself contains ingredients that can offer health benefits as well. Hot sauce, particularly the type made from cayenne peppers, contains capsaicin, a compound known for its ability to boost metabolism and promote fat burning. Capsaicin has also been shown to improve digestion and reduce inflammation, making it a beneficial addition to your diet when consumed in moderation.

Jalapeños, often included in the sauce, also have health benefits. They are rich in vitamin C, an essential nutrient that supports immune health and skin integrity. Jalapeños contain capsaicin as well, which may help alleviate pain and improve circulation.

While Grilled Buffalo Wings are not necessarily a low-calorie dish, they are certainly a healthier option compared to fried wings. By grilling the wings and controlling the ingredients in the sauce, you can enjoy a flavorful and satisfying dish without the added calories and unhealthy fats of traditional fried wings.

Pairing Grilled Buffalo Wings with Sides and Drinks

Grilled Buffalo Wings are a versatile dish that pairs wonderfully with a wide variety of sides and drinks. If you’re serving them as an appetizer, you can offer a range of dipping sauces to complement the spicy flavor of the wings. Classic choices include ranch dressing, blue cheese dressing, or even a creamy garlic dip.

To balance the heat of the wings, consider serving them with cooling sides such as coleslaw, potato salad, or a simple green salad. The creamy textures of these dishes will help mellow out the spice while adding a refreshing contrast to the bold flavors of the wings.

For a heartier meal, pair Grilled Buffalo Wings with sides like grilled vegetables, cornbread, or French fries. The smoky flavors of the grilled wings complement the savory notes of these sides, creating a satisfying meal that is sure to please everyone at the table.

As for drinks, cold beverages are a natural choice to help tame the heat of the wings. Ice-cold beers, particularly pale ales, lagers, or IPAs, are popular choices to pair with Buffalo wings. The crisp, refreshing qualities of beer provide a perfect contrast to the spice, helping to cleanse the palate between bites.

If you prefer non-alcoholic options, iced tea, lemonade, or sparkling water with a wedge of lime make excellent choices. For those who enjoy a bit of spice in their drink, a margarita or a Bloody Mary can be a fun and flavorful pairing with your wings.

Conclusion

Grilled Buffalo Wings are an outstanding choice for anyone who loves bold, spicy flavors with a smoky twist. By grilling the wings instead of frying them, you can enjoy a healthier and more flavorful version of this classic dish. The smoky flavor from the grill, combined with the tangy and spicy Buffalo sauce, creates a perfect balance that will leave your taste buds craving more.