Description
This Baked Buffalo Chicken recipe offers a flavorful and spicy main course featuring tender chicken breasts coated in a zesty buffalo wing sauce and baked to perfection. Ideal for a quick and easy dinner, it combines classic buffalo flavors with a healthy, gluten-free approach. Optional blue cheese or mozzarella topping and fresh green herbs add a creamy and vibrant finish.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Seasonings
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Baking Sauce
- 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Optional Toppings and Garnish
- 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese or shredded mozzarella
- Chopped green onions or parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C). Lightly grease a baking dish using olive oil or nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Season the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides evenly with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika to enhance flavor and create a balanced seasoning base.
- Arrange Chicken in Dish: Place the seasoned chicken breasts into the prepared baking dish, ensuring they are spaced slightly apart for even cooking.
- Make Buffalo Sauce Mixture: In a small bowl, combine the buffalo wing sauce with melted butter. Stir thoroughly to emulsify and mellow the sauce, which will coat the chicken beautifully.
- Coat Chicken with Sauce: Pour the buffalo sauce mixture evenly over the chicken breasts. Turn each piece gently to coat both sides thoroughly with the sauce for maximum flavor infusion.
- Bake the Chicken: Bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes or until an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) is reached, signaling the chicken is cooked through and safe to eat.
- Add Cheese Topping (Optional): In the last 5 minutes of baking, sprinkle crumbled blue cheese or shredded mozzarella over the chicken to melt and add a creamy, tangy touch.
- Finish and Garnish: Remove the chicken from the oven. Spoon some of the pan sauce over the top to keep the chicken moist and flavorful. Garnish with chopped green onions or parsley for a fresh, colorful presentation.
Notes
- Serve this dish with ranch or blue cheese dressing, celery sticks, or over rice or salad for a complete meal.
- Chicken thighs can be used instead of breasts for a juicier texture.
- Adjust the amount of buffalo sauce according to your preferred spice level.
