Colorado Buffalo Chicken Skewers on the Arteflame Grill

Introduction

Fire up your Arteflame grill and get ready to make these incredible Buffalo Chicken Skewers! Marinated in bold Colorado hot sauce, these skewers pack a spicy punch with a perfect smoky sear. By using the Arteflame grill’s 1,000°F center sear grate, we lock in the juices before finishing them on the flat cooktop for an unbeatable flavor and texture. With no need for an oven or pots and pans, the entire cooking process happens right on the grill, ensuring restaurant-quality results right in your backyard.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1/2 cup Colorado-style hot sauce
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp honey (optional for slight sweetness)
• Wooden or metal skewers
• Chopped parsley for garnish
• Ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Arteflame Grill

1. Pour some vegetable oil on three paper napkins and place them in the grill.
2. Stack firewood over the soaked napkins.
3. Light the paper and allow the fire to burn for about 20 minutes until the grill is ready for cooking.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

1. In a bowl, mix the Colorado-style hot sauce, melted butter, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and optional honey.
2. Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated.
3. Cover and let marinate for at least 30 minutes, preferably overnight for maximum flavor.

Step 3: Skewer and Sear the Chicken

1. Thread the chicken pieces onto skewers, leaving a small gap between pieces for even cooking.
2. Place the skewers on the center grill grate of the Arteflame and sear for 1-2 minutes per side at 1,000°F.

Step 4: Finish Cooking on the Flat Cooktop

1. Move the skewers to the surrounding flat cooktop, positioning them in a medium-heat zone.
2. Cook for another 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally, until the internal temperature reaches 160°F.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

1. Remove the skewers from the grill when they reach an internal temperature of 160°F, as they will continue cooking to 165°F while resting.
2. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve with ranch or blue cheese dressing.

Tips

• Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.
• Use chicken thighs for extra juiciness.
• For a bolder flavor, reserve some marinade and brush it onto the skewers as they cook.
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness.
• Serve with celery and carrots to balance the spice.

Variations

• Honey Mustard Buffalo: Add 2 tbsp honey and 1 tbsp mustard to the marinade for a tangy, sweet heat.
• Lemon Herb Buffalo: Add 1 tbsp lemon juice and 1 tsp Italian seasoning for a bright and herbaceous twist.
• Smoky Chipotle: Replace the hot sauce with 1/3 cup chipotle sauce and add 1 tsp cumin for a smoky, spicy kick.
• Teriyaki Buffalo: Mix in 2 tbsp teriyaki sauce for an umami-rich fusion of flavors.
• BBQ Buffalo: Combine 1/4 cup BBQ sauce with the hot sauce for a smoky-sweet blend.

Conclusion

Colorado Buffalo Chicken Skewers made on the Arteflame Grill combine delicious heat with a perfect smoky sear. Cooking over the high-temperature center grill grate locks in the juices, while finishing on the flat cooktop ensures the perfect texture. Whether you're hosting a backyard BBQ or just craving bold flavor, these skewers are guaranteed to impress.

Best Pairings

• Grilled corn on the cob
• Roasted sweet potatoes
• Crunchy coleslaw
• Grilled garlic bread
• A cold IPA or a crisp lager