Grilled Chicken Wings with Buffalo Hot Honey Sauce

When it comes to finger-licking appetizers, grilled chicken wings reign supreme. Elevate your wing game by combining the classic heat of Buffalo sauce with the sweet kick of hot honey. This fusion creates a tantalizing Buffalo Hot Honey Wing Sauce that will leave your taste buds craving more. Let’s dive into crafting these irresistible grilled wings.

The Allure of Buffalo Hot Honey Wings

Chicken wings have long been a staple at gatherings, game days, and casual dinners. Their versatility allows for a myriad of flavors, but the combination of spicy Buffalo sauce with sweet hot honey offers a harmonious blend of heat and sweetness that’s hard to resist.

Grilled Wings with Buffalo Hot Honey Sauce

Ingredients You’ll Need

To create these delectable wings, gather the following ingredients:

• Chicken Wings: 2 pounds of drums and flats, typically yielding about 24 pieces.
• Seasoning:
  • 1 tablespoon kosher salt
  • 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch (aids in achieving crispy skin)
• Buffalo Hot Honey Sauce:
  • ½ cup Frank’s RedHot sauce (or your preferred hot sauce)
  • ½ cup hot honey (store-bought or homemade)
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter

Achieving Crispy Grilled Wings

Grilling wings imparts a smoky flavor that’s distinct from frying. To ensure crispy skin:

1. Pat Dry: Before seasoning, thoroughly pat the wings dry with paper towels. Removing excess moisture is crucial for crispiness.
2. Cornstarch Coating: Tossing the wings in cornstarch, along with salt and pepper, creates a light coating that crisps up beautifully on the grill.

Grilling the Wings

Follow these steps for perfectly grilled wings:

1. Preheat the Grill: Set your grill to medium-high heat, aiming for a temperature around 400°F.
2. Season the Wings: In a large bowl, combine the cornstarch, salt, and pepper. Add the dried wings and toss until evenly coated.
3. Grill Setup: Arrange the wings on the grill grates, ensuring they’re not overcrowded. This allows for even cooking and optimal airflow.
4. Grilling Process: Grill the wings for approximately 20-25 minutes, turning every 5-7 minutes to ensure even browning. The wings are done when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F and have a crispy exterior.

Crafting the Buffalo Hot Honey Sauce

While the wings are grilling, prepare the sauce:

1. Melt Butter: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter.
2. Combine Ingredients: Once melted, add the Frank’s RedHot sauce and hot honey. Stir continuously until the mixture is well combined and heated through.
3. Adjust to Taste: Taste the sauce and adjust the heat or sweetness by adding more hot sauce or honey as desired.

Tossing and Serving

1. Sauce the Wings: Place the grilled wings in a large bowl. Pour the Buffalo Hot Honey Sauce over them and toss until each wing is generously coated.
2. Garnish: For an added touch, garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds.
3. Serve Immediately: These wings are best enjoyed hot off the grill. Serve with celery sticks and a side of ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping.

Variations and Tips

• Baking Alternative: If grilling isn’t an option, you can bake the wings in a preheated oven at 425°F for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through. Finish under the broiler for extra crispiness.
• Spice Level: Adjust the heat by varying the amount of hot sauce or choosing a milder or hotter variety.
• Honey Selection: Using different types of honey, such as clover or wildflower, can subtly change the flavor profile.

Pairing Suggestions

These wings pair wonderfully with:

• Beverages: A cold lager or IPA complements the spicy and sweet flavors. For non-alcoholic options, consider a chilled lemonade or iced tea.
• Sides: Classic sides like coleslaw, potato salad, or grilled vegetables make excellent accompaniments.

Grilled Wings with Buffalo Hot Honey Wing Sauce offer a delightful twist on traditional chicken wings. The combination of smoky grilled wings with a spicy-sweet sauce creates a memorable dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a game day party or enjoying a casual dinner, these wings are sure to impress. Fire up the grill and treat yourself to this flavor-packed experience!