Buffalo Chicken Thighs Crispy

These buffalo chicken thighs have become my go-to meal when I need something bold and satisfying with almost no fuss. You get incredibly crispy skin and that unmistakable tangy heat from buffalo sauce. Whether you air fry or bake them, the result is full of flavor and perfect for busy weeknights or game day gatherings. These thighs also fit low carb and keto diets without sacrificing taste.

I started making this during a busy football season and now it is on repeat weekly in my house because everyone requests seconds.

Ingredients

• Chicken thighs: Choose bone-in skin-on thighs for maximum flavor and a crispy finish Pick ones with plump even skin
• Buffalo sauce: Delivers signature tangy heat Use your favorite brand or make your own for extra freshness
• Salt: Essential for seasoning and drawing out moisture for crispier skin
• Chili powder: Adds a touch of smokiness and warmth Look for fresh powder that is bright in color
• Smoked paprika: Gives a deep smoky undertone Spanish smoked paprika is best for bold flavor
• Baking powder: Helps the skin bubble up and get ultra crispy Make sure your baking powder is aluminum-free
• Garlic powder: Adds savory depth Go for finely ground powder for even distribution
• Onion powder: Layers in sweet onion flavor A quality fine powder blends best
• Black pepper: Brings mild heat and fragrance Freshly ground is most flavorful
• Cayenne pepper: Boosts the heat and sharpness Use to taste based on how spicy you want your chicken

Step-by-Step Instructions

Mix The Spice Rub:

Combine salt chili powder smoked paprika baking powder garlic powder onion powder black pepper and cayenne pepper in a small bowl Mix thoroughly with a fork until no clumps remain This ensures even coverage and balanced flavor

Prep The Chicken Thighs:

Pat chicken thighs dry with paper towels Removing all surface moisture is key for crispy skin Lay the thighs out and evenly coat every piece with spice rub Rub seasoning into all the nooks and under the skin edges

Air Fry The Chicken:

Set your air fryer to 375 degrees Place chicken thighs skin side down in a single layer to ensure air circulation Cook for twelve minutes Flip thighs so the skin is facing up Cook for another twelve to fourteen minutes The skin should be deeply golden and the chicken cooked through to an internal temperature of one hundred sixty five degrees Do not overcrowd

Bake The Chicken:

Heat oven to 375 degrees Arrange chicken fully skin side up on a wire rack over a baking sheet for airflow Bake for twenty five to thirty minutes until skin is very crisp and meat reads one hundred sixty five degrees Flipping is not needed since keeping skin up ensures maximum crispiness

Add The Buffalo Sauce:

Once cooked toss the chicken thighs in buffalo sauce until well coated or simply drizzle it over the top for a less messy option Serve hot with extra buffalo sauce if desired

Pin

Buffalo sauce is my favorite part because it reminds me of sports nights with family when we used to toss everything in that spicy tangy glaze It feels special even on a simple weeknight I love watching the sauce sizzle on the golden crispy skin

Storage tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days When reheating use the air fryer or oven for about eight minutes at 350 degrees to keep the skin crispy Avoid microwaving as it will make the skin lose its crunch If freezing wrap each thigh in foil then store in a freezer bag Chicken can be frozen for up to two months

Ingredient substitutions

If you like things less spicy adjust the cayenne pepper or swap regular paprika for smoked Try using a sugar free barbecue sauce in place of buffalo for a new twist You can also use boneless thighs but reduce cooking time by about five minutes

Serving suggestions

Serve alongside celery sticks carrot sticks and a side of ranch or blue cheese sauce to echo classic buffalo wings These are also great over a crisp salad topped with extra sauce or tucked into low carb wraps with crunchy lettuce

Cultural and historical context

Buffalo chicken flavor comes from Buffalo New York where the iconic sauce was first used on deep fried wings This recipe gives you that same zesty heat and buttery bite but with a healthier roasted or air fried chicken thigh Every bite is a nod to the classic American sports bar staple

Recipe FAQs

→ How do you achieve extra crispy skin?

Pat the chicken skin dry and use a baking powder-based spice rub before cooking for a truly crispy finish.

→ Can this dish be prepared in the oven instead of air fryer?

Yes, bake the chicken skin side up at 375°F to retain its crispiness without flipping during cooking.

→ Is this option suitable for a low carb or keto diet?

Absolutely, each serving contains just 1g net carbs, making it a great choice for low carb and keto preferences.

→ How can I adjust the level of heat?

Modify the amount of buffalo sauce or cayenne pepper according to your preference for spiciness.

→ What sides pair well with these chicken thighs?

Serve with celery sticks, a crisp salad, or roasted vegetables to balance out the flavors and textures.

→ Is it possible to use boneless chicken thighs?

Yes, boneless thighs can be used but keep in mind the cooking time may be shorter, so watch closely for doneness.