Buffalo Chicken Thighs (Air Fryer & Oven Baked) Recipe
Delicious and spicy Buffalo Chicken Thighs prepared with a flavorful marinade and cooked using two methods: air frying or oven baking. Tender, juicy chicken thighs are coated in a zesty Frank’s Red Hot Buffalo Sauce blend, then finished with a buttery buffalo sauce topping for the perfect spicy kick. Ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or game day snack.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 16 minutes (air fryer) or 20-25 minutes (oven)
- Total Time: 46 minutes (including 30 minutes marinating)
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Halal
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Marinade
- 2 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs (about 6 pieces)
- 1/4 cup Frank’s Red Hot Buffalo Sauce
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Buffalo Sauce Topping
- 2 tbsp salted butter, melted
- 2 tbsp Frank’s Red Hot Buffalo Sauce
Instructions
- Marinate Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the chicken thighs, 1/4 cup Frank’s Red Hot Buffalo Sauce, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, paprika, and black pepper. Toss thoroughly to coat the chicken evenly. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer into an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Preheat Air Fryer: Remove marinated chicken from the fridge and preheat your air fryer to 400°F (204°C). Spray the air fryer basket with non-stick spray or olive oil spray to prevent sticking.
- Air Fry Chicken: Place the coated chicken thighs in a single layer inside the air fryer basket. Cook for 10 minutes. Flip the chicken thighs over and continue air frying for an additional 6 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and edges are crispy.
- Alternate Oven Baking Method: If you prefer baking, preheat your oven to 425°F (218°C). Lightly spray a baking sheet with cooking spray and arrange the chicken thighs in a single layer. Bake for 20-25 minutes until cooked through and slightly browned.
- Prepare Buffalo Sauce Topping: While the chicken is cooking, mix together the melted butter and 2 tablespoons Frank’s Red Hot Buffalo Sauce in a small bowl until combined evenly.
- Coat Chicken in Buffalo Sauce: Once the chicken is cooked by either method, spread the buffalo sauce mixture over the thighs or gently toss them to coat well with the buttery buffalo sauce.
- Serve: Serve immediately with optional drizzles of ranch or blue cheese dressing and garnish with chopped green onions for extra flavor and freshness. Enjoy your spicy, tender buffalo chicken thighs!
Notes
- Marinate the chicken for longer (up to 4 hours) for more intense flavor.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
- Optional garnish includes ranch or blue cheese dressing and fresh chopped green onions.
- You can adjust the amount of buffalo sauce based on your preferred spice level.
- If air frying, avoid overcrowding the basket to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
Keywords: Buffalo chicken thighs, air fryer buffalo chicken, oven baked buffalo chicken, spicy chicken recipe, easy buffalo chicken
