There’s just something magical about buttery, spicy buffalo wings kissed by the grill—and let me tell you, once you try these, you’ll wonder why you ever settled for takeout. This is my family’s go-to recipe for game day, backyard parties, or just when that wing craving hits hard. Fire up the grill, grab some napkins, and let’s make some wings worth celebrating!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe brings me right back to sunny Saturdays on our patio—me manning the grill while the kids dart through sprinklers and the smell of sizzling wings fills the air. It’s the little moments like those that make these wings more than just food—they’re a memory.
- Perfectly crispy and smoky from the grill
- That bold, buttery buffalo sauce we all know and love
- Super easy to prep ahead for entertaining
- No deep frying required (yay, less mess!)
- Great as an appetizer or main dish
Ingredients Breakdown
Essentials
- 2 lbs chicken wings, split and tips removed
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup hot sauce (like Frank’s RedHot)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tbsp honey (optional for a touch of sweetness)
Pro Tips
- Use a wire rack over a baking sheet to dry wings in the fridge for crispier skin
- Want it spicier? Add a dash of cayenne to the buffalo sauce
- Grill-friendly tip: lightly oil the grates before adding wings to prevent sticking
- Use ghee for a dairy-free version of buffalo sauce
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Pat the wings dry with paper towels and place them in a large bowl. Toss with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F). If using charcoal, arrange for indirect heat.
- Place wings on the grill. Grill for about 20–25 minutes, turning every 5–7 minutes, until cooked through and crispy on the edges.
- While the wings grill, make the sauce: In a small saucepan over low heat, melt butter. Stir in hot sauce and honey (if using), and whisk until smooth.
- Once wings are nice and golden, remove from the grill and toss in the buffalo sauce until evenly coated.
- Serve hot with celery sticks, carrot sticks, and blue cheese or ranch dressing if desired.
Chef’s Tips and Tricks
- Drying the wings ahead of time (ideally overnight in the fridge) helps get that crave-worthy crisp skin.
- Cook over indirect heat to avoid flare-ups and burnt skin before the wings are fully cooked.
- Don’t drown the wings in sauce—coat lightly first and keep some on the side for dipping.
- Use a meat thermometer—wings are done when they reach 165°F inside.
Recipe Variations and Serving Suggestions
- Try tossing in a garlic-Parmesan butter sauce for a fun twist
- Swap buffalo sauce with BBQ or teriyaki if you want a milder option
- Serve on a platter with fresh herbs and lime wedges for a festive touch
- Make it a meal: serve with grilled corn on the cob and a cool cucumber salad
FAQs
Can I make these in the oven instead of the grill?
Absolutely! Bake at 425°F on a wire rack for 35–45 minutes, flipping halfway through. Then toss in the buffalo sauce just before serving.
How can I make these wings less spicy?
Use less hot sauce and add more butter or a splash of honey to mellow out the heat. You can also try a mild buffalo sauce brand.
Can I make the wings ahead of time?
Yes! Grill the wings, refrigerate, then reheat in the oven at 375°F for 10–12 minutes before tossing in sauce. Great for prepping before guests arrive!
Recipe Card
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs chicken wings, split
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup hot sauce
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tbsp honey (optional)
Instructions:
- Pat wings dry and toss with olive oil, spices, salt, and pepper.
- Grill over medium-high heat for 20–25 minutes, turning often.
- Meanwhile, melt butter and whisk with hot sauce and honey.
- Toss cooked wings in sauce and serve immediately.
Nutrition: Approx. 280 calories per serving
Did you try these grilled buffalo wings? I’d love to hear about it! Leave a comment below, tag me on Instagram @thekitchensaid, or share this recipe with your fellow wing-lovers. Let’s spread the flavor—one spicy bite at a time!
