Grilled Buffalo Wings on the Arteflame Grill

Buffalo wings are a classic game-day favorite, and grilling them on the Arteflame takes them to the next level. The high heat crisps up the wings while locking in the juices, and a buttery buffalo sauce adds the perfect tangy and spicy kick.

Ingredients:

For the Wings:

• 2 lbs chicken wings
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Buffalo Sauce:

• ½ cup hot sauce (Frank’s RedHot is ideal)
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 tbsp honey (optional, for sweetness)
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp vinegar (optional for extra tang)

For Serving:

• Celery sticks
• Carrot sticks
• Ranch or blue cheese dressing

Instructions:

Step 1: Fire up the Arteflame Grill

Light your Arteflame grill by placing vegetable oil-soaked napkins under stacked firewood. Allow the grill to heat for about 20 minutes. The center grate will be used for crisping the wings, while the outer flat top can be used to cook the wings more gently if needed.

Step 2: Season the Wings

Pat the chicken wings dry with a paper towel to ensure they crisp up well on the grill. Toss them with olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Let the wings sit for about 10 minutes to absorb the seasoning.

Step 3: Grill the Wings

Place the wings on the hot center grate of the grill. Grill for 8-10 minutes per side, turning occasionally, until they develop a crispy, golden-brown skin and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Move the wings to the outer flat top if they need to cook through more slowly to avoid burning.

Step 4: Make the Buffalo Sauce

While the wings are grilling, melt the butter in a small saucepan on the outer flat top of the grill. Stir in the hot sauce, honey (if using), Worcestershire sauce, and vinegar. Whisk the sauce until smooth and well combined.

Step 5: Toss the Wings in Buffalo Sauce

Once the wings are fully cooked and crispy, remove them from the grill. Toss them in the warm buffalo sauce until they are fully coated. If desired, return the wings to the grill for a minute or two to caramelize the sauce slightly.

Step 6: Serve

Serve the buffalo wings hot with celery sticks, carrot sticks, and your favorite dipping sauce (ranch or blue cheese dressing).

Grilling Tips:

• Crisp the wings: For extra crispy skin, pat the wings dry before seasoning and grilling.
• Sauce after grilling: Toss the wings in the buffalo sauce after grilling to maintain their crispiness.

5 Flavor Variations for Buffalo Wings

1. Garlic Parmesan Wings: Toss grilled wings in melted butter, minced garlic, and grated Parmesan cheese.
2. Honey BBQ Wings: Mix BBQ sauce with honey and coat the wings for a sweet and smoky flavor.
3. Spicy Cajun Wings: Add Cajun seasoning to the wings before grilling for an extra kick, and toss them in a hot sauce and butter blend.
4. Sweet Chili Wings: Use a sweet chili sauce instead of buffalo sauce for a sticky, sweet, and spicy option.
5. Lemon Pepper Wings: Toss the grilled wings in melted butter, lemon zest, and cracked black pepper for a tangy and zesty flavor.

For Grilled Buffalo Wings, here are some excellent pairings that complement the bold, spicy flavors of the wings:

1. Celery and Carrot Sticks

• Why it works: These crunchy, fresh veggies provide a cool contrast to the heat of the buffalo wings and are a classic pairing.

2. Ranch or Blue Cheese Dressing

• Why it works: The creamy texture of ranch or blue cheese dressing balances the spiciness of the buffalo sauce and adds a tangy flavor.

3. French Fries

• Why it works: Crispy, salty fries are the perfect comfort food side to go with spicy wings, adding a satisfying crunch.

4. Coleslaw

• Why it works: A creamy, tangy coleslaw helps to cool down the heat from the wings and adds a refreshing crunch.

5. Cornbread

• Why it works: Sweet, crumbly cornbread offers a delicious contrast to the spicy wings and brings a soft, comforting texture to the meal.

6. Grilled Corn on the Cob

• Why it works: Grilled corn with a bit of char adds a smoky sweetness that pairs beautifully with the tangy, spicy wings.

7. Sweet Potato Fries

• Why it works: The natural sweetness of sweet potato fries balances the spice from the wings, while the crispy texture complements the tender wings.

8. Macaroni and Cheese

• Why it works: Creamy, cheesy mac and cheese is a comforting, rich side that contrasts nicely with the heat of buffalo wings.

9. Pickles

• Why it works: The tangy, briny flavor of pickles cuts through the richness of the wings and adds a refreshing bite.

10. Beer

• Why it works: A cold, light beer like lager or pale ale is a classic pairing with buffalo wings, helping to cool down the heat while enhancing the flavors.

These pairings will enhance the bold flavors of the buffalo wings and create a well-rounded, satisfying meal.