These Buffalo Chicken Meatballs are a fun twist on a classic! They are juicy, spicy, and perfect for dipping. They’re made with ground chicken, hot sauce, and just a sprinkle of cheese for that extra flavor.
What’s great is that they’re easy to whip up! I love serving them with a side of ranch. Trust me, you’ll want to keep some napkins handy—things might get a little messy, but that’s the fun part! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Chicken: This is the star of the meatballs! If you prefer, ground turkey or extra-lean ground beef could also work well. For a vegetarian option, try plant-based chicken substitutes.
Breadcrumbs: I like using panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch. If you need gluten-free options, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or even ground oats. They’ll still hold everything together nicely!
Parmesan Cheese: It adds a lovely depth of flavor. If you’re dairy-free, nutritional yeast can be a great substitute that adds a cheesy taste without the dairy.
Buffalo Sauce: Frank’s RedHot is a classic choice! If you want it milder, mix buffalo sauce with some honey or BBQ sauce, or just adjust the amount to your spice level.
What’s the Best Way to Ensure Meatballs Are Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking meatballs to perfection can be tricky, but it’s all about the details! Here’s how to get them just right:
- Use a kitchen thermometer to check if they’ve reached 165°F (74°C).
- Mix the ingredients just until combined to keep them tender.
- Line your baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
Make sure to let them rest for a couple of minutes after baking. This helps them firm up a bit, making them easier to handle and serve. Enjoy your tasty Buffalo Chicken Meatballs!
How to Make Buffalo Chicken Meatballs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb (450g) ground chicken
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plain or panko)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup green onions, finely chopped (plus more for garnish)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
For the Sauce and Garnish:
- 1/2 cup Frank’s RedHot or your favorite buffalo sauce (plus more for tossing)
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- Crumbled blue cheese, for garnish
- Celery sticks, for serving
- Ranch or blue cheese dressing, for dipping
Time Needed:
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prep and another 18-20 minutes to bake, totaling around 30 minutes. You’ll be enjoying your spicy meatballs in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or give it a light grease to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, chopped green onions, salt, black pepper, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Gently mix everything together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as that can make your meatballs tough.
3. Shape the Meatballs:
Using your hands, shape the mixture into meatballs about 1.5 inches in diameter. Place them on your prepared baking sheet, making sure they aren’t touching.
4. Bake the Meatballs:
Put the meatballs in the preheated oven and bake for 18–20 minutes. They should be golden brown, and their internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
5. Prepare the Sauce:
While the meatballs are baking, melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Once melted, stir in the buffalo sauce and warm it through. Remove from heat once combined.
6. Coat the Meatballs:
Once the meatballs are done, transfer them to a large bowl and pour the warm buffalo sauce over them. Gently toss them to coat evenly with the sauce.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the meatballs immediately, garnished with crumbled blue cheese and extra chopped green onions. Don’t forget the celery sticks and ranch or blue cheese dressing on the side for dipping!
Enjoy your flavorful and spicy Buffalo Chicken Meatballs!
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or lean ground beef can be used as substitutes for ground chicken. For a vegetarian option, consider using a plant-based ground meat alternative.
How Do I Adjust the Spice Level?
If you prefer milder meatballs, reduce the amount of buffalo sauce or mix it with some honey or BBQ sauce to balance the heat. You can also use a different sauce that has less spice!
Can I Make These Meatballs Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatballs and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. Just shape them, cover tightly, and pop them in the fridge until you’re ready to cook!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in the microwave or on the stove until heated through. You can add a splash of buffalo sauce for extra flavor while reheating!
