Air-Fryer Buffalo Chicken

Whip up a tender, juicy, and tangy classic from New York State in the comfort of your home.

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Growing up an hour away from Buffalo, New York, I know how yummy Buffalo chicken can be. But only recently have I discovered how exquisite it tastes when you make it in the air fryer. This handy modern appliance cooks up succulent chicken breasts in just 15 minutes. So, this recipe is quick and easy enough to whip up, even on a busy weeknight. And good news—it has the perfect balance of salty, spicy, and tangy, just like it should.

My family and I recently got an oven with a built-in air fryer, and it does quite the number on chicken dishes. But air-fryer Buffalo chicken is one of a kind because it’s doused in that classic and velvety sauce that so many crave. One bite brings me back to childhood, when we’d dip our grilled chicken in Buffalo sauce at summertime cookouts. If you’ve been yearning for that old-fashioned flavor with just the right amount of heat, then try this iconic main. It goes great with veggie sticks and blue cheese dip. Whether it’s game day or not, this dish hits the spot!

What exactly is Buffalo sauce?

Don’t worry—no buffalo are ever harmed in the making of this sauce! It’s named after the city, not the animal.

Invented in the 1960s, Buffalo sauce is a hot concoction that goes great on many different dishes, from chicken wings to pizza. Today, there are many variations of the sauce, some including ingredients like garlic and vinegar. But originally, the spicy sauce, which hails from Buffalo, New York, was a simple and satisfying blend of hot sauce and butter. While the exact inventor is debated, Teressa Bellissimo—co-owner of the Anchor Bar—is most commonly credited for it.

How do I store leftovers?

Let your Buffalo chicken cool to room temperature before storing it in an airtight container and refrigerating for 3-4 days. I suggest keeping the veggie sticks in a separate container so they remain crisp. To reheat the chicken, simply warm it up in the air fryer for 5-10 minutes.

Serving suggestions

As you can see, air-fryer Buffalo chicken goes best with a classic pairing of veggie sticks and Blue Cheese Dip. But you can also dish out Avocado Ranch Dressing, Cream Cheese Dip, or Greek Yogurt Dip to mix it up a bit. Creamy and cheesy blends tend to go great with Buffalo chicken because they balance out the spice. Another way to achieve that is by serving this main dish with Cheesy Mexican Rice or Butter Potatoes.