The Quest for the Perfect Buffalo Chicken Wings: Where to Find the Best in the United States

When it comes to finding the perfect buffalo chicken wings, the journey can be a challenging one. As a voracious traveler across the 48 states, I've tasted my fair share of delicious wings from the most celebrated hot spots to local favorites. Yet, one discovery stands out above the rest.

The Former Champion: Miller's Pub in Chicago

Years ago, while on a road trip, I discovered that Miller's Pub in downtown Chicago served the best buffalo wings I had ever tasted. Located in a bustling part of the city, Miller's Pub was a go-to spot for me whenever I drove within a 100-mile radius of Chicago. Their magical buffalo sauce recipe was a true delight, and I would visit often to indulge in their flavorful offerings. However, a fateful change in their recipe turned out to be a disappointing detour.

One day, a friend and I decided to make a 7-hour drive to experience Miller's Pub for ourselves. Much to our dismay, they had altered their beloved buffalo sauce to something that tasted more like ketchup—a stark contrast to the rich, flavorful sauce that had captivated us. This change dealt a significant blow to our experience, and ever since, I have not returned to Miller's Pub.

The New Champion: Duffy's Steak and Lobster House in Key West

Fast forward to a trip to Key West, Florida, where I stumbled upon Duffy's Steak and Lobster House. Known for its abundant seafood and key lime pie, I was not expecting to find exceptional buffalo wings. However, the depth of flavor and the generous serving of these wings left me speechless. The wings were so delicious that they surpassed my expectations, and to my surprise, the key lime pie accompanying them was the best I had ever tasted as well. This experience solidified the reputation of Duffy's as my new champion in the quest for the best buffalo wings.

More Recommendations: Still Buffalo Chicken Wings in Rochester and Buffalo

Among the plethora of good options, the Still in Rochester, NY stands out as a prime contender. Located near the University of Rochester campus, the Still serves amazing buffalo wings that are highly rated. Another choice is the Anchor Bar and Grill in Buffalo, which is widely considered the birthplace of the buffalo wings and still holds a special place in the hearts of locals and food enthusiasts alike.

My Personal Recipe for the Best Buffalo Chicken Wings

My journey for the perfect buffalo chicken wings hasn't stopped there. I love chicken wings, especially those that are extremely spicy. I have a reputation for ordering wings that are as hot as possible, and on rare occasions, they have disappointed me.

Experimenting with different ingredients and techniques, I have come up with a recipe that truly captures the essence of the perfect buffalo chicken wing. This is how I make them:

Preparation: Begin by preparing your chicken wings. Boneless and skinless are ideal for a quick and clean cooking process. Marinating: Mix butter, hot sauce, and your favorite spices to create a flavorful marinade. Coat the wings evenly with this mixture. Cooking: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the wings in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake for about 40-45 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even cooking. Add chopped onions, garlic, and grated cheese for extra flavor. Resting and Serving: After baking, let the wings rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together. Serve with your favorite dip or sauce.

The quest for the best buffalo chicken wings is ongoing, but these recommendations and tips should help you enjoy the wing experience to its fullest. Whether you're craving a spicy bite or a milder taste, there are plenty of options to satisfy your cravings.