These Buffalo Chicken Meatballs are packed with flavor and just the right amount of kick! Made with juicy chicken and zesty buffalo sauce, they are perfect for any gathering.
Honestly, I can’t resist these little spicy bites! They’re great as a snack or paired with some creamy ranch for dipping. Trust me, they’ll vanish from the table in no time! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Chicken: This is the star of the meatballs! If you’re looking for a healthier option, ground turkey works well too. For a richer flavor, consider ground beef or pork, though it will alter the taste a bit.
Breadcrumbs: I used panko for extra crunch, but plain breadcrumbs are fine. If gluten is a concern, you can swap them with almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Green Onions: These add freshness! If you don’t have them, use chopped chives or even finely diced regular onions, but remember they will be a bit stronger.
Cheese: Mozzarella gives a nice stretch, while Parmesan adds depth. Feel free to mix in or substitute with other cheeses like cheddar for a different flavor profile.
Buffalo Sauce: Frank’s RedHot is a classic choice, but any hot sauce you love will work. For a milder version, mix your favorite hot sauce with ketchup to tone it down.
How Can I Get My Meatballs the Perfect Texture?
The texture can really make or break your meatballs, so here’s how to get them just right:
- Mix gently! Overmixing can make them tough. Just combine until all ingredients are incorporated.
- Keep the size uniform, about 1 to 1½ inches. This helps them cook evenly.
- Be sure to bake until golden brown, which adds flavor. A meat thermometer can help ensure they reach 165°F (74°C).
These tips will help you achieve that tender, juicy bite you want in your Buffalo Chicken Meatballs! Enjoy cooking and sharing these with friends and family!
How to Make Buffalo Chicken Meatballs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko or plain)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
For the Sauce:
- 3/4 cup buffalo hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
For Serving:
- Celery sticks
- Blue cheese crumbles (optional)
- Ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 20 minutes to bake, which means you can have these delicious meatballs ready in about 30 minutes! Perfect for a quick meal or snack.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). For easy cleanup, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.
2. Mix the Meatball Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, add the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, chopped green onions, mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, garlic, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika (if you’re using it). Gently mix all the ingredients together until just combined—be careful not to overmix! This helps keep the meatballs tender.
3. Shape the Meatballs:
Using your hands, shape the mixture into small meatballs, each about 1 to 1½ inches in diameter. Place the formed meatballs evenly on your prepared baking sheet.
4. Bake the Meatballs:
Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for about 18-20 minutes. You want them to be fully cooked through and golden brown on the outside. A meat thermometer can help ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
5. Prepare the Buffalo Sauce:
While the meatballs are baking, melt the butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir in the buffalo hot sauce and warm through. This will create a deliciously spicy coating for the meatballs.
6. Toss the Meatballs in Sauce:
Once the meatballs are finished baking, transfer them to a large bowl. Pour the warm buffalo sauce over the meatballs and gently toss them until they are completely coated in the sauce. Get ready for some spicy goodness!
7. Serve and Garnish:
Transfer the coated meatballs to a serving plate. For an extra touch, garnish with additional chopped green onions and blue cheese crumbles if you like.
8. Enjoy!
Serve these tasty meatballs immediately with celery sticks and a side of ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping. Everyone will love this spicy, tender treat!
Enjoy your Buffalo Chicken Meatballs! They’re sure to be a hit! 🎉
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute and will work just as well in this recipe. Just remember that it may have a slightly different flavor but still delicious!
How Can I Make These Meatballs Gluten-Free?
You can easily make these meatballs gluten-free by substituting regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour. Be sure to check any sauces for hidden gluten as well!
Can I Freeze Leftover Meatballs?
Yes, you can freeze these meatballs! Allow them to cool completely, then freeze them in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw them in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven or microwave.
What’s the Best Way to Reheat Meatballs?
The best way to reheat meatballs is to place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat them in the microwave for a quicker option, just be sure to cover them to retain moisture.
