Buffalo Chicken Meatballs

Introduction

Buffalo Chicken Meatballs are a bold, zesty, and savory twist on a classic appetizer. These bite-sized meatballs are made with ground chicken, seasoned to perfection, and tossed in a tangy buffalo sauce that packs just the right amount of heat.

I remember making these for a game day gathering, and they disappeared almost as quickly as they hit the table! What makes them great is their versatility—you can serve them as an appetizer with toothpicks or turn them into a meal by pairing them with rice or a fresh salad. They’re a fantastic alternative to buffalo wings, offering all the flavor without the mess.

For the perfect finishing touch, serve these meatballs with a side of creamy ranch or tangy blue cheese dressing and some crunchy celery sticks. Whether you’re hosting a party, meal-prepping, or just craving something with a kick, these Buffalo Chicken Meatballs are sure to impress!

Perfect for:

• Game day appetizers
• Parties and gatherings
• Meal prepping
• Quick dinners
• Buffalo wing lovers

Why You’ll Love This Buffalo Chicken Meatballs

Here’s why Buffalo Chicken Meatballs will be a hit in your kitchen:

• Bold Buffalo Flavor: They’re packed with the spicy, tangy goodness of classic buffalo sauce.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and minimal prep time, these meatballs come together quickly.
• Healthier Alternative: Baked instead of fried, these meatballs are a lighter option compared to traditional wings.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve them as an appetizer, snack, or main dish alongside your favorite sides.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: These meatballs store and reheat well, making them ideal for quick lunches or dinners.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Servings: 4-6 (about 18-20 meatballs)
• Calories per serving: Approximately 200-250 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 20g, Carbs: 6g, Fat: 12g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Buffalo Chicken Meatballs:

• 1 pound ground chicken
• ½ cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
• 1 large egg
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ cup buffalo sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• Optional for serving: ranch or blue cheese dressing, celery sticks, carrot sticks

Ingredient Highlights

• Ground Chicken: A lean and versatile protein that’s perfect for soaking up the bold buffalo sauce.
• Buffalo Sauce: The star of the show, it provides that signature tangy and spicy flavor. You can use store-bought or make your own.
• Breadcrumbs: Helps bind the meatballs together while keeping them tender.
• Parmesan Cheese: Adds a subtle savory flavor that complements the buffalo sauce.
• Butter: Mixes with the buffalo sauce to create a silky, flavorful coating.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Buffalo Chicken Meatballs:

Meatballs:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or grease it lightly.
2. Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, parsley (if using), garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently until just combined.
3. Form the Meatballs: Using a cookie scoop or your hands, form the mixture into 1 ½-inch meatballs and place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each one.
4. Bake: Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are cooked through and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Buffalo Sauce:

5. Make the Sauce: While the meatballs are baking, combine the buffalo sauce and melted butter in a small bowl. Stir until smooth.
6. Toss the Meatballs: Once the meatballs are fully cooked, transfer them to a large bowl. Pour the buffalo sauce over the meatballs and toss gently to coat.

How to Serve Buffalo Chicken Meatballs

Buffalo Chicken Meatballs can be served in a variety of ways:

• As an Appetizer: Serve on a platter with toothpicks alongside ranch or blue cheese dressing, celery, and carrot sticks.
• As a Main Dish: Pair with mashed potatoes, rice, or a side salad for a complete meal.
• In Sliders: Place the meatballs in slider buns with a drizzle of ranch or extra buffalo sauce.
• Over Salad: Top a bed of greens with the meatballs for a flavorful buffalo chicken salad.
• With Pasta: Toss the meatballs with pasta and a creamy sauce for a unique dish.

Additional Tips for Buffalo Chicken Meatballs

Here are some tips to ensure your Buffalo Chicken Meatballs turn out perfect every time:

• Use Lean Ground Chicken: For a healthier version, use lean ground chicken breast. You can also use a combination of light and dark meat for added flavor.
• Bind with Breadcrumbs: To keep the meatballs from falling apart, add breadcrumbs or panko along with an egg to help bind the ingredients together.
• Season Well: Season the chicken mixture with garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika to enhance the flavor of the meatballs before adding the buffalo sauce.
• Chill Before Cooking: After forming the meatballs, chill them in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to help them hold their shape while cooking.
• Bake for Ease: Baking the meatballs at 375°F for about 15-20 minutes is an easy and hands-off method. This results in a crispy outer texture without frying.
• Make Ahead: These meatballs can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to a day or frozen for up to a month. Just bake or reheat when ready to serve.
• Choose the Right Buffalo Sauce: Choose your buffalo sauce based on your spice preference. If you like it mild, look for a milder version, or go for a hot sauce if you want extra heat.
• Double the Sauce: For extra flavor, toss the meatballs in buffalo sauce both before and after baking. This ensures each bite has that signature tangy, spicy coating.
• Add Cheese: Mix in some crumbled blue cheese or shredded cheddar directly into the meatball mixture for an extra layer of flavor.
• Serve with Dips: Serve with a side of ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping, or drizzle over the top for added creaminess to balance the spice.

Recipe Variations for Buffalo Chicken Meatballs

Here are 10 variations to try for Buffalo Chicken Meatballs:

1. Cheesy Buffalo Meatballs: Add a small cube of mozzarella cheese to the center of each meatball before baking for a gooey surprise.
2. Extra Spicy Meatballs: Add chopped jalapeños or cayenne pepper to the mixture for more heat.
3. Buffalo Turkey Meatballs: Substitute ground turkey for chicken for a slightly different flavor.
4. Low-Carb Buffalo Meatballs: Use almond flour or crushed pork rinds instead of breadcrumbs.
5. Buffalo Ranch Meatballs: Add a tablespoon of ranch seasoning to the meatball mixture for extra flavor.
6. Stuffed Buffalo Meatballs: Fill the meatballs with crumbled blue cheese for a bold twist.
7. Buffalo Meatball Subs: Serve the meatballs in a hoagie roll with melted cheese and extra buffalo sauce.
8. Buffalo BBQ Meatballs: Mix equal parts buffalo sauce and barbecue sauce for a sweeter variation.
9. Buffalo Meatball Lettuce Wraps: Serve the meatballs in crisp lettuce leaves for a lighter option.
10. Air Fryer Buffalo Meatballs: Cook the meatballs in an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes.

Freezing and Storage for Buffalo Chicken Meatballs

• Freezing: Cooked meatballs can be frozen for up to 3 months. Allow them to cool completely, then store in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. Reheat in the oven or microwave before tossing with buffalo sauce.
• Storage: Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.

Special Equipment for Buffalo Chicken Meatballs

Here are some special equipment items to make preparing your Buffalo Chicken Meatballs easier:

• Mixing Bowls: Use a large bowl for combining the ingredients.
• Cookie Scoop: Ensures evenly sized meatballs for even cooking.
• Baking Sheet: Line with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Ensure precise measurements for the best results.
• Meat Thermometer: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the meatballs reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Frequently Asked Questions for Buffalo Chicken Meatballs

1. Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?
   Yes, ground turkey is a great substitute and works just as well in this recipe.
2. Can I make these in advance?
   Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs ahead of time and refrigerate or freeze them until you’re ready to bake.
3. What can I use instead of breadcrumbs?
   You can use almond flour, crushed crackers, or oats as a substitute for breadcrumbs.
4. How spicy are these meatballs?
   The spice level depends on the buffalo sauce you use. Opt for a mild version if you prefer less heat.
5. Can I cook these in a slow cooker?
   Yes, bake the meatballs first, then transfer them to a slow cooker with buffalo sauce to keep warm for serving.

Print

Conclusion

Buffalo Chicken Meatballs are a flavorful, easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, snack, or main course, these meatballs are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Their bold buffalo flavor, versatility, and simplicity make them a recipe you’ll want to make again and again.

This recipe is as easy as it is delicious, perfect for everything from game day gatherings to casual dinners. Whether you’re sharing them with friends or treating yourself, these buffalo chicken meatballs bring a burst of flavor to any table.

I’d love to see how your Buffalo Chicken Meatballs turn out! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and don’t forget to tag me—I can’t wait to see your delicious creations. Enjoy!