If you’re craving a dish that packs a punch with zesty heat and a citrusy twist, this Orange Buffalo Grilled Chicken Recipe is about to become your new favorite. Imagine juicy, tender chicken breasts soaked in a vibrant marinade featuring spicy Frank’s hot sauce blended delicately with fresh orange juice and savory notes like garlic and Worcestershire sauce. Every bite bursts with flavor, balancing the tangy sweetness of orange with a bold buffalo kick that makes grilled chicken utterly irresistible. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or just want an easy weeknight meal with serious personality, this recipe delivers all the excitement you want with ingredients you probably already have on hand.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting started with this Orange Buffalo Grilled Chicken Recipe is a breeze because the ingredient list is refreshingly simple yet thoughtfully balanced. Each component plays a key role in creating that signature flavor profile, from the spicy heat of Frank’s wing sauce to the citrus brightness of orange juice, all rounded out with garlic and a touch of Worcestershire sauce for depth. Plus, a little olive oil helps keep the chicken moist and juicy on the grill.
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts: The perfect cut for even cooking and maximum flavor absorption.
- 1 cup Frank’s hot sauce or wing sauce: This is your base buffalo flavor, providing spicy heat and tang.
- ¼ cup orange juice: Adds a fresh, citrusy brightness that balances the heat beautifully.
- 2 cloves garlic (minced): Garlic brings a savory punch that complements the tangy elements.
- 2 Tbsp olive oil: Keeps the chicken moist and prevents sticking on the grill.
- 2 Tbsp Worcestershire sauce: Adds umami depth and a subtle savory sweetness.
- Salt and pepper (to taste): Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the other flavors.
How to Make Orange Buffalo Grilled Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
Start by whisking together the Frank’s hot sauce, orange juice, minced garlic, olive oil, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper in a medium bowl. This mix is where all those wonderful flavors marry, creating a marinade that’s tangy, spicy, and full of depth. The orange juice softens the heat and adds a sweet zing that’s unforgettable.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Place your chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Seal or cover and pop it in the refrigerator for a few hours, ideally overnight. This step allows the chicken to soak up all those bold flavors, making every bite juicy and tasty. Patience here really pays off!
Step 3: Grill the Chicken
When you’re ready, remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the excess. Grill the breasts over medium-high heat until they reach an internal temperature of 165ºF. This usually takes about 6-7 minutes per side, depending on the thickness, but using a meat thermometer ensures perfect doneness without drying out the meat. The grill’s smoky char pairs perfectly with the spicy orange buffalo sauce.
How to Serve Orange Buffalo Grilled Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes can elevate your presentation and boost flavor. Think freshly chopped cilantro or parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Sliced green onions or a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds add crunch and contrast beautifully with the bold sauce.
Side Dishes
This grilled chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Crisp celery sticks and creamy ranch or blue cheese dressing highlight the buffalo flavors perfectly. For a more substantial meal, serve alongside a light salad, roasted sweet potatoes, or even a refreshing coleslaw that cuts through the heat with creamy tang.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider slicing the grilled chicken and serving it over a bed of fluffy rice or tucked inside soft tortillas for a vibrant wrap. You can drizzle extra orange buffalo sauce on top for a saucy finish. Hosting a gathering? Arrange the chicken wings-style on a platter with dipping sauces to get everyone excited.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually intensify after resting, making for great next-day meals or lunchbox treats.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy this Orange Buffalo Grilled Chicken Recipe later, freeze cooked chicken breasts by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and placing in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the chicken gently in the oven at 325ºF or microwave it covered with a damp paper towel to prevent drying out. Adding a splash of orange juice or buffalo sauce helps keep it moist and flavorful.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and have more fat, which makes them incredibly flavorful when grilled. Just adjust the cooking time to ensure they’re cooked through.
Is Frank’s hot sauce the only option for the buffalo sauce?
You can substitute with your favorite wing sauces, but Frank’s is a classic for a reason—it offers a balanced heat and tang that marries perfectly with the orange juice.
How long should I marinate the chicken for best results?
While a few hours work in a pinch, marinating overnight is ideal. It allows the flavors to deeply penetrate the meat for maximum taste and tenderness.
Can I make this recipe indoors without a grill?
Yes! Use a grill pan or broiler to replicate the char and smoky flavor. Just watch the cooking closely to avoid burning.
Is this recipe very spicy?
It has a noticeable kick thanks to the buffalo sauce, but the orange juice tones down the heat with sweetness. You can adjust the amount of hot sauce to suit your heat preference.
Final Thoughts
This Orange Buffalo Grilled Chicken Recipe is a flavorful celebration that brings together spicy, tangy, and sweet elements in one delicious package. It’s an absolute crowd-pleaser that’s easy enough for weeknights but impressive enough for weekend gatherings. Give it a try and get ready to fall in love with a new chicken staple that will keep everyone asking for seconds.
Print
Orange Buffalo Grilled Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes (excluding marinating time)
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Orange Buffalo Grilled Chicken recipe offers a tangy and spicy twist on classic grilled chicken breasts, marinading them in a vibrant blend of hot sauce, fresh orange juice, garlic, and Worcestershire sauce for a flavorful and juicy meal perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
Marinade
- 1 cup Frank’s hot sauce or wing sauce
- ¼ cup orange juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 Tbsp olive oil
- 2 Tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the marinade: In a medium bowl, whisk together the hot sauce, orange juice, minced garlic, olive oil, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper until fully combined to create a balanced and flavorful marinade.
- Marinate the chicken: Place the chicken breasts into a resealable plastic bag and pour the prepared marinade over the chicken. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least a few hours or up to overnight to allow the flavors to deeply infuse into the meat.
- Preheat the grill: When ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat to ensure a nice sear and even cooking.
- Grill the chicken: Remove the chicken breasts from the marinade, shaking off any excess. Grill the chicken for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165ºF (74ºC), indicating that the chicken is cooked through and safe to eat.
- Rest and serve: Remove the grilled chicken from the heat and let it rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute, resulting in moist, tender meat.
Notes
- Marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours for the best flavor infusion, but overnight is ideal.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature of 165ºF.
- If you don’t have a grill, the chicken can also be cooked on a stovetop grill pan or broiled in the oven.
- For a less spicy version, reduce the amount of hot sauce or use a milder wing sauce.
- This recipe pairs well with a side of grilled vegetables or a fresh salad.
