When I first discovered the magic of Slow Cooker Buffalo Wings, my weeknight dinners transformed from routine to something I eagerly anticipated. Just imagining the scent of spicy, tangy goodness filling my home while I went about my day was enough to make anyone drool. Picture this: you come home after a long day, and instead of reaching for the usual takeout menu, there they are—perfectly cooked wings, tender, juicy, and smothered in a luscious blend of Frank’s Red Hot sauce, garlic, and a hint of sweetness from brown sugar.
What’s even better? These wings practically cook themselves while you enjoy your evening. They’re a crowd-pleaser at any gathering or a blissful indulgence during a cozy night in. Plus, you can easily customize them for your preferred level of heat or spice, making them a versatile addition to your culinary repertoire. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll find yourself craving that rich flavor combination and the delightful ease it brings back into your kitchen. Let’s dive into this scrumptious adventure together!
Why are Slow Cooker Buffalo Wings a must-try?
Unmatched convenience: Simply toss all the ingredients into your slow cooker and let it work its magic while you relax.
Bold, zesty taste: The perfect balance of spice and sweetness elevates your wing game to new heights.
Customizable: Adjust the heat level easily, making it suitable for everyone—family gatherings or game nights.
Tender perfection: Cooking low and slow yields amazingly juicy wings that will have everyone licking their fingers!
Effortless cleanup: Enjoy tasty comfort food without the hassle; your slow cooker does all the heavy lifting.
Try these wings at your next get-together, and watch them disappear in no time!
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Buffalo Wings
You won’t believe how easy these delicious wings are to prepare!
For the Wings
- Chicken wings – 4 pounds, fresh or frozen; these are the star of your mouthwatering dish.
- Frank’s Red Hot wings sauce – 1 ½ cups, plus more for basting; this zesty sauce adds the perfect kick!
- Garlic powder – 1 teaspoon; a little goes a long way in enhancing the flavor.
- Onion powder – 1 teaspoon; it deepens the savory notes of the wings.
- Salt – 1 teaspoon; essential for bringing out the flavors of all your ingredients.
- Black pepper – ½ teaspoon; adds a subtle warmth to balance the heat of the sauce.
- Brown sugar – ¼ cup; this sweet touch beautifully contrasts with the spiciness of the wings.
- Butter – 4 tablespoons, cut into cubes; it adds richness and helps meld the flavors together.
For the Garnish (Optional)
- Parsley, chopped – a sprinkle brightens up the presentation and adds a fresh taste.
- Green onions, sliced – their crunch and color provide a delightful accent to your wings!
Get ready to put your slow cooker to work; these Slow Cooker Buffalo Wings will have your taste buds dancing!
How to Make Slow Cooker Buffalo Wings
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Prepare the Slow Cooker: Start by arranging your slow cooker on a stable surface and plugging it in. This will be the heart of your buffalo wing magic!
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Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, toss together the chicken wings, Frank’s Red Hot wings sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, brown sugar, and butter cubes. Mix until every wing is generously coated in flavor.
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Transfer to Slow Cooker: Place the coated wings into the slow cooker in an even layer. Don’t worry if they’re a little crowded; they’ll shrink as they cook!
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Cook Low and Slow: Cover the slow cooker and set it to low heat. Let them cook for 4 to 6 hours. They’re ready when the wings are tender and the meat easily pulls away from the bone.
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Finish with Extra Sauce: If you like your wings extra saucy, take the lid off, brush more Frank’s Red Hot sauce over them, and let them cook for an additional 15-30 minutes on high.
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Garnish and Serve: Once done, transfer the wings to a platter and garnish with chopped parsley and sliced green onions, if desired.
Optional: Serve with celery sticks and blue cheese dressing for a classic pairing!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Storage Tips for Slow Cooker Buffalo Wings
Fridge: Store leftover wings in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Be sure to place a layer of sauce on top to keep them moist.
Freezer: Properly freeze cooled wings in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Squeeze out excess air to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: To reheat, bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes or microwave until heated through, adding more sauce for extra flavor. Enjoy your delicious Slow Cooker Buffalo Wings!
Variations & Substitutions for Slow Cooker Buffalo Wings
Feel free to explore these tasty adjustments and make this dish your own!
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free hot sauce and ensure that any other ingredients are gluten-free for a safe, flavorful option.
- Spicy Kick: Add extra cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to amplify the heat. Your taste buds will be jumping with joy!
- Smoky Flavor: Incorporate smoked paprika or Chipotle hot sauce for a smoky twist that will take your wings to the next level. The layers of flavor will mesmerize your guests!
- Asian Fusion: Swap out Frank’s Red Hot with a sweet chili sauce or teriyaki sauce to create a unique Asian-inspired version that will surprise and delight!
- Baking Alternative: If you prefer a crispy finish, you can bake the wings after slow cooking—broil them for a few minutes to achieve that golden, crispy skin.
- Honey BBQ: Substitute brown sugar with honey and use a barbecue sauce instead of hot sauce for a sweet and tangy variation that everyone will love. The sweetness will balance the savory perfectly!
- Herb-Infused: Add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme during cooking for an aromatic touch that enhances the flavors beautifully. Your kitchen will smell divine!
- Vegetarian Option: Try using cauliflower florets instead of chicken wings for a delicious vegetarian twist on buffalo wings, perfect for herbivores!
Make Ahead Options
These Slow Cooker Buffalo Wings are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the chicken wings in the sauce and spices up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to deeply penetrate the meat—just be sure to refrigerate them in an airtight container to maintain quality. Additionally, you can prepare the spice mix (garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and brown sugar) ahead of time for easy assembly. When you’re ready to cook, simply transfer the marinated wings to the slow cooker and set it to low for 4 to 6 hours. This makes it a breeze to serve a delicious meal on busy nights, ensuring your wings are just as delectable as when they’re freshly made!
Expert Tips for Slow Cooker Buffalo Wings
- Choose High-Quality Wings: Opt for fresh chicken wings rather than frozen for the best flavor and texture. If using frozen, ensure they are fully thawed before cooking.
- Don’t Skimp on Saucing: Make sure each wing is generously coated in the Frank’s Red Hot wings sauce mixture to achieve that bold, zesty flavor you’ll love.
- Avoid Overcrowding: When placing the wings in the slow cooker, arrange them in an even layer. Overcrowding can prevent proper cooking and crispiness.
- Finish Strong: For that restaurant-style finish, broil the wings for a few minutes after cooking to achieve a crispy exterior. Just keep a close eye to avoid burning!
- Adjust the Heat: Don’t be afraid to experiment with the spices! Add extra garlic or a pinch of cayenne pepper for more kick in your Slow Cooker Buffalo Wings.
- Serve with Classics: Pair your wings with celery sticks and blue cheese dressing for the perfect balance of flavors and textures at your next gathering!
What to Serve with Slow Cooker Buffalo Wings?
Get ready to elevate your meal with these delicious pairings that perfectly complement the spicy goodness of your wings.
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Creamy Coleslaw: A cool, crunchy slaw balances the heat of the wings, offering a refreshing bite that brightens every mouthful. The creaminess helps soothe any spice while enhancing the overall flavor.
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Crispy French Fries: Golden and crunchy, fries provide the perfect texture contrast to your tender wings. Dipping them in extra buffalo sauce makes for an irresistible treat that’s hard to resist!
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Tangy Potato Salad: This creamy side boasts the right amount of tanginess, making it a delightful match for your flavorful wings. It adds a hearty touch that rounds out the meal beautifully.
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Garlic Breadsticks: Soft and buttery garlic breadsticks can be the perfect vehicle for scooping up any leftover sauce. Their comforting flavor pairs seamlessly with the boldness of the wings.
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Veggie Platter: A colorful assortment of veggies like celery and carrots adds freshness. Paired with a rich blue cheese dressing, they create a simple yet satisfying accompaniment to your wings.
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Bubble Tea: A fun, sweet drink like bubble tea complements the spiciness of the wings unexpectedly well. The chewy tapioca pearls and creamy milk create a delightful contrast that keeps you refreshed.
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Chocolate Brownies: End your meal on a sweet note with fudgy brownies. Their richness provides the perfect indulgent finish to balance the savory flavors of the meal.
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Craft Beer: An ice-cold craft beer, especially an IPA, marries beautifully with the bold flavors of the buffalo wings. The hops can cut through the spiciness while enhancing the overall experience.
With these mouthwatering options, you’ll create an unforgettable meal that everyone at your table will love!
Slow Cooker Buffalo Wings Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best chicken wings for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture, I recommend using fresh chicken wings. If you choose frozen, ensure they are fully thawed before cooking. Look for wings that are plump and have a smooth skin without dark spots or freezer burns.
What’s the best way to store leftover Slow Cooker Buffalo Wings?
Leftover wings should be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To keep them flavorful, place a layer of the sauce on top to prevent them from drying out. Always remember to let them cool before storing!
Can I freeze Slow Cooker Buffalo Wings, and if so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze, ensure the wings are completely cooled and then place them in a freezer-safe bag, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the fridge, and reheat as desired.
How do I reheat the wings while keeping them crispy?
Great question! For the best results, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the wings on a baking sheet. Bake them for 20-25 minutes until heated through. You can also brush them with a bit more sauce before reheating to enhance their flavor!
What should I do if my wings turn out too spicy?
If your wings end up spicier than you’d like, you can balance the heat by serving them with a side of cooling blue cheese dressing. Alternatively, you can toss them in a little more melted butter or a drizzle of honey to tone down the heat.
Are there any dietary considerations for these wings?
Yes! If you’re cooking for someone with allergies, be aware that Frank’s Red Hot sauce contains vinegar and cayenne pepper. Check the label for additional ingredients. For a gluten-free option, make sure you’re using gluten-free sauces and seasonings.
Irresistible Slow Cooker Buffalo Wings for Easy Game Day!
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the Slow Cooker: Start by arranging your slow cooker on a stable surface and plugging it in.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, toss together the chicken wings, Frank’s Red Hot wings sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, brown sugar, and butter cubes.
- Transfer to Slow Cooker: Place the coated wings into the slow cooker in an even layer.
- Cook Low and Slow: Cover the slow cooker and set it to low heat. Let them cook for 4 to 6 hours.
- Finish with Extra Sauce: Brush more Frank’s Red Hot sauce over them, and let them cook for an additional 15-30 minutes on high.
- Garnish and Serve: Transfer the wings to a platter and garnish with chopped parsley and sliced green onions.