Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Buffalo Chicken Meatballs


  • Author: Sofia
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4-6 servings 1x

Description

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. Perfect for game day, parties, or a quick weeknight meal, these meatballs deliver all the flavors of buffalo wings without the mess. Serve them with a side of ranch or blue cheese dressing and some crunchy celery sticks for the ultimate snack or main dish.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 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.

Instructions

Prepare the 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).

Prepare the Buffalo Sauce:

  1. Make the Sauce: While the meatballs are baking, combine the buffalo sauce and melted butter in a small bowl. Stir until smooth.
  2. 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 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.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes

Nutrition

  • Calories: 200-250 kcal
  • Fat: 12g
  • Carbohydrates: 60g
  • Protein: 20g