Slow Cooker Spicy Buffalo Chicken Wings
Experience the mouthwatering essence of classic Buffalo wings with this easy-to-make slow cooker recipe. Perfect for game day, parties, or a cozy night in, these wings are bathed in a rich and zesty sauce that's bursting with flavor. Simply let your slow cooker do all the hard work while you prepare for your gathering. Feel free to experiment with different hot sauces and dry rubs to create your own unique twist. Whether you’re a spice lover or just enjoy a flavorful dish, these wings are guaranteed to impress!
6
Servings
500
Calories
6
Ingredients
Ingredients
Frozen chicken drumsticks
4 lb (Keep frozen)
Frank's Buffalo Wing Sauce
24 oz (Use two 12-ounce bottles)
Margarine or Butter
1 cup (Melted)
Dried Oregano
2 teaspoons (Dried)
Worcestershire Sauce
2 tablespoons (None)
Minced Onions or Dried Onions
1 tablespoon (or 2 tablespoons for dried) (Minced or dried)
Instructions
1
In a saucepan, combine the melted margarine or butter, Frank's Buffalo Wing Sauce, dried oregano, Worcestershire sauce, and minced onions. Heat over medium until the mixture simmers and blends beautifully.
2
Place the frozen chicken drumsticks or wings into the crock pot, ensuring they are well distributed. Pour the heated sauce mixture evenly over the chicken.
3
Cover the crock pot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
4
Once cooked, use a slotted spoon to remove the wings and place them on a lined cookie sheet.
5
Preheat your broiler to high. Broil the wings for 10-15 minutes, turning halfway through, to achieve a crispy finish. For added flavor, sprinkle with your favorite dry rub before broiling.
6
Serve hot with extra sauce on the side for dipping!
Nutrition Information
40g
Fat
7.5g
Carbs
30g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh chicken instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh chicken drumsticks or wings. If using fresh chicken, you may want to reduce the slow cooking time by approximately one hour.
Do I need to thaw the chicken before putting it in the slow cooker?
No, this recipe is specifically designed to work with frozen chicken, which makes it a great time-saver.
Can I use chicken wings instead of drumsticks?
Absolutely! This recipe works equally well for chicken wings, drummettes, or a combination of both.
How long should I cook the chicken on the low setting?
When cooking on low, the chicken should be ready in 6 to 8 hours.
How long should I cook the chicken on the high setting?
If you are in a hurry, you can cook the chicken on high for 3 to 4 hours.
Is the broiling step necessary?
While the chicken is fully cooked in the slow cooker, broiling is highly recommended to achieve a crispy skin and a professional finish.
What kind of hot sauce is best for this recipe?
Frank's Buffalo Wing Sauce is recommended for the classic flavor, but you can use any brand of Buffalo-style sauce you prefer.
Can I substitute butter for margarine?
Yes, butter and margarine can be used interchangeably in this recipe depending on your preference.
How do I make the wings even crispier?
For extra crispiness, you can broil them for a few additional minutes on each side or finish them in an air fryer at 400 degrees for 5 minutes.
Can I add a dry rub to these wings?
Yes, applying a dry rub before the broiling step is an excellent way to add another layer of flavor and texture.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
The main ingredients are typically gluten-free, but you should always check the labels on your Buffalo sauce and Worcestershire sauce to be sure.
How many people does this recipe serve?
This recipe is designed to provide approximately 6 servings.
What side dishes go well with Buffalo wings?
Classic pairings include celery sticks, carrot sticks, and ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping.
Can I use a different type of onion?
Yes, you can use 1 tablespoon of minced fresh onion or 2 tablespoons of dried onion flakes.
How should I store leftovers?
Leftover wings can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
What is the best way to reheat these wings?
To maintain the crispy texture, it is best to reheat them in the oven or an air fryer until they are heated through.
Can I make this recipe in an Instant Pot?
Yes, you can use the slow cooker function on your Instant Pot, or pressure cook them on high for about 15-20 minutes with a natural release.
How can I make the sauce thicker?
If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can simmer the sauce in a saucepan for a longer period before pouring it over the chicken or add a small cornstarch slurry.
Can I use fresh oregano instead of dried?
Yes, if using fresh oregano, use about 2 teaspoons to replace the 2 teaspoons of dried oregano.
Is it okay to use a slow cooker liner?
Yes, using a slow cooker liner can make the cleanup process much faster and easier.
Can I make these wings less spicy?
To reduce the heat, you can use a mild Buffalo sauce or increase the amount of butter/margarine in the mixture.
Can I make these wings spicier?
To increase the heat, add a few dashes of cayenne pepper or your favorite extra-hot hot sauce to the mixture.
What if I don't have Worcestershire sauce?
You can substitute Worcestershire sauce with soy sauce or a splash of balsamic vinegar for a similar savory depth.
How many calories are in one serving?
Each serving contains approximately 500 calories.
Can I freeze the wings after they are cooked?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked wings for up to 3 months. Thaw them in the fridge before reheating.
Does the recipe require salt?
The Buffalo sauce and margarine usually contain enough sodium, so additional salt is typically not necessary.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, as long as your slow cooker is large enough to hold 8 pounds of chicken without being overfilled.
Why use frozen chicken specifically?
Using frozen chicken allows for a longer cooking time in the slow cooker without the meat becoming overcooked or falling apart too early.
Should I discard the liquid in the slow cooker after cooking?
Most people discard the cooking liquid as it contains rendered fat, but you can save a small amount to toss the wings in before serving.
Can I use this sauce for other meats?
Definitely! This zesty Buffalo sauce blend works great with pork ribs or even cauliflower for a vegetarian option.