The excitement of game day is almost palpable, and there’s nothing quite like the savory allure of Buffalo wings that gets everyone buzzing. However, I found myself craving that iconic flavor without the messy fingers and fuss. Enter Buffalo Chicken Meatballs! These little bites of joy pack all the zesty goodness you love in classic wings, but with the added benefit of being easy to prepare, mess-free, and completely satisfying.
Imagine how exhilarating it feels to whip up a bowl of these gorgeous meatballs in just 30 minutes, creating an irresistible appetizer that everyone will rave about. Bursting with the fiery kick of hot sauce and complemented by creamy blue cheese, they take comfort food to a whole new level. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in, these meatballs are a crowd-pleaser that promise to delight and impress. So let’s dive into this recipe and make your next game day truly unforgettable!
Why are Buffalo Chicken Meatballs a must-try?
Quick and Easy: These meatballs come together in just 30 minutes, making them ideal for last-minute gatherings.
Flavor Explosion: Packed with zesty hot sauce and creamy blue cheese, every bite is an addictive combination of spice and richness.
Mess-Free Enjoyment: Forget about sticky fingers—these meatballs serve up all the wing flavors without the hassle.
Versatile Serving: Pair them with your favorite dipping sauce or enjoy them on their own; they fit any occasion!
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you’re hosting a game day party or a casual get-together, these meatballs are sure to impress both family and friends!
Buffalo Chicken Meatball Ingredients
Get ready to create these delicious Buffalo Chicken Meatballs with the ingredients below!
For the Meatballs
- Ground chicken – A lean meat that keeps these meatballs juicy and flavorful.
- Panko bread crumbs – Provides structure and a light texture; opt for gluten-free breadcrumbs if needed.
- Large egg – Binds the mixture together for perfectly shaped meatballs.
- Celery, finely chopped – Adds a refreshing crunch to the meatball mix.
- Cloves garlic, finely chopped – Infuses the meatballs with savory aroma and flavor.
- Kosher salt – Enhances all the delicious flavors; regular salt can be used in a pinch.
- Onion powder – Gives depth and richness to the meatball mixture.
- Sliced green onions – Offers a pop of color and mild onion flavor; chives are a great substitute.
For the Buffalo Sauce
- Unsalted butter – Creates a rich base for the sauce; dosh margarine for a dairy-free version.
- Hot sauce (preferably Frank’s RedHot) – Brings that iconic Buffalo flavor to life; adjust to taste for desired heat.
- Crumbled blue cheese – Adds a creamy, tangy component; feta works well as a substitute or can be omitted for dairy-free needs.
Each ingredient plays a vital role in creating the perfect Buffalo Chicken Meatballs that everyone will love!
How to Make Buffalo Chicken Meatballs
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Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a baking sheet with extra-virgin olive oil. This will help your meatballs achieve that perfect golden crust.
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Prepare Buffalo Sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt unsalted butter, whisking in crumbled blue cheese and hot sauce until smooth. Season with kosher salt, then set aside to cool slightly.
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Make Meatball Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine panko bread crumbs, finely chopped celery, minced garlic, large egg, sliced green onions, onion powder, and salt. Once mixed, add in the ground chicken along with half of the prepared Buffalo sauce, blending until combined.
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Shape Meatballs: Use a cookie scoop to portion the mixture into 1-inch meatballs, placing them evenly on the greased baking sheet. Ensure they’re nicely spaced for even cooking.
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Bake Meatballs: Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 15-17 minutes, or until they’re lightly golden and cooked through. A slightly crispy exterior will add to their delightful texture.
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Coat with Sauce: Toss the warm meatballs gently in the remaining Buffalo sauce until they’re thoroughly coated. Each meatball should be drenched in that zesty goodness.
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Serve: Serve the Buffalo Chicken Meatballs hot, accompanied by blue cheese dressing or ranch, and sprinkle with additional sliced green onions for an extra touch of flavor.
Optional: Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley for a burst of color.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Buffalo Chicken Meatballs
- Ground Chicken Quality: Use high-quality ground chicken for the best taste and texture; lean cuts avoid dry meatballs.
- Seasoning Balance: Don’t skimp on the seasoning! Taste and adjust the hot sauce and salt for your desired spice level before baking.
- Even Baking: Arrange meatballs evenly on the baking sheet and avoid crowding to ensure they cook uniformly and achieve that perfect crispy exterior.
- Rest and Toss: Let the meatballs rest briefly after baking before tossing them in the sauce; this helps them hold their shape and prevents them from falling apart.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair with fresh vegetable sticks or a side of dipping sauce for a well-rounded game day snack that your guests will love.
Buffalo Chicken Meatballs Variations
Feel free to get creative and make these Buffalo Chicken Meatballs your own; the possibilities are endless!
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Spicy Kick: Add chopped jalapeños to the meatball mixture for an extra heat boost that will tantalize your taste buds. A fiery bite takes your game day snack to a new level!
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Cheesy Delight: Fold in shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese into the meatball mix for a gooey, melty surprise. The melted cheese creates a delightful texture that cheese lovers will adore.
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Herbaceous Twist: Incorporate fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a pop of freshness and vibrant flavor. They beautifully complement the buffalo sauce, elevating the overall experience.
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Turkey Option: Swap the ground chicken with ground turkey for a leaner alternative that doesn’t compromise on flavor. It’s a delicious, lighter take that everyone will love!
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Vegan-Friendly: Use chickpeas or lentils blended with spices and a flax egg as a meatball base for a plant-based version. These little bites can be just as scrumptious and satisfying!
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Buffalo Cauliflower: For a veggie twist, use chopped cauliflower florets mixed into your meatball mixture for added texture and nutrients. You’ll get a fantastic fusion of flavors and a fun crunch!
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Maple BBQ: Instead of buffalo sauce, toss your meatballs in a mix of BBQ sauce and maple syrup for a sweet and smoky alternative. A delightful detour from tradition that adds a unique flavor.
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Flavor Infusion: Try adding smoked paprika or cayenne pepper to the meatball mix for depth and richness. Each bite will have a sophisticated flavor twist that leaves your guests wanting more!
Make Ahead Options
These Buffalo Chicken Meatballs are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can mix the meatball ingredients and shape the meatballs up to 24 hours in advance; just cover them tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. This not only saves time but ensures they’re just as flavorful when you bake them. You can also prepare the Buffalo sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply bake the meatballs as instructed and toss them in the warm sauce until coated. This way, you’ll have a delicious, crowd-pleasing appetizer ready with minimal effort, perfect for busy weeknights or game day gatherings!
Storage Tips for Buffalo Chicken Meatballs
- Fridge: Store leftover Buffalo Chicken Meatballs in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Make sure they are fully cooled before sealing to maintain freshness.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Reheat directly from frozen.
- Reheating: To reheat, place meatballs in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave them for 1-2 minutes, checking regularly.
- Serving Tip: If you plan to serve them later, reserve some Buffalo sauce to toss them in just before serving for maximum flavor!
What to Serve with Buffalo Chicken Meatballs?
Get ready to elevate your next gathering with side dishes that perfectly complement the spicy and zesty flavor of these crowd-pleasing meatballs.
- Crispy Celery Sticks: The cool, refreshing crunch of celery sticks balances the heat, making for a perfect palate cleanser between bites.
- Creamy Ranch Dip: This classic accompaniment adds a rich, creamy layer that enhances the tangy notes of the Buffalo sauce, making every bite a delightful experience.
- Carrot Sticks: Their natural sweetness provides a nice contrast to the spicy meatballs, plus they bring a pleasing crunch to your snack platter.
- Blue Cheese Dressing: A must-try for the ultimate Buffalo experience! Drizzling this over your meatballs delivers a creamy richness that complements the flavor perfectly.
- Garlic Bread: Soft and buttery, this warm side provides a hearty option to soak up any extra Buffalo sauce, making it irresistible with every mouthful.
- Sweet Potato Fries: Their crispy texture and hint of sweetness create an exciting contrast to the heat of the meatballs, rounding out the meal beautifully.
- Ice-Cold Beer: Pairing a refreshing lager or ale brings a delightful balance to the spicy flavors, making your game day experience even more satisfying.
- Chocolate Chip Cookies: Conclude your meal with a sweet touch! These warm, gooey treats are the perfect ending to a savory and spicy feast.
Each of these suggestions adds a unique flavor and texture, ensuring your Buffalo Chicken Meatballs shine as the star of your game day spread!
Buffalo Chicken Meatballs Recipe FAQs
How do I know if my ground chicken is fresh?
Absolutely! Fresh ground chicken should have a light pink color with no noticeable odors. Avoid any packages that contain dark spots or produce an off smell. If you’re unsure, check the use-by date on the packaging, and always store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to use it.
How can I store leftover Buffalo Chicken Meatballs?
Very simply! Place your leftover Buffalo Chicken Meatballs in an airtight container, and they’ll stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To keep them at their best, make sure they’re completely cooled before sealing the container. Reheat in the oven or microwave when you’re ready to enjoy them again!
Can I freeze Buffalo Chicken Meatballs, and if so, how?
You certainly can! To freeze your meatballs, let them cool completely first. Then, lay them out in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, about 1-2 hours. After they’re frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag, and they’ll keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, you can cook them directly from frozen; just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
What if my meatball mixture is too wet or too dry?
No problem! If your mixture feels too wet, you can easily add a little more panko breadcrumbs to absorb the excess moisture. Conversely, if it’s too dry, try adding a bit of water or another egg to help it bind better. The consistency should be firm but still moldable, allowing you to shape them into meatballs without them falling apart.
Are Buffalo Chicken Meatballs okay for kids or people with allergies?
Absolutely! Just ensure you use gluten-free breadcrumbs and check the hot sauce for any allergens if you’re serving friends or family with dietary restrictions. For kids, you can even adjust the amount of hot sauce used to suit their taste buds or serve the meatballs with a cooling dipping sauce like ranch or yogurt. It’s always best to consider any individual preferences or allergies before serving!
What is the best way to serve Buffalo Chicken Meatballs?
Buffalo Chicken Meatballs are best enjoyed warm! Serve them along with fresh vegetable sticks like celery and carrots, and don’t forget a side of blue cheese or ranch dressing for dipping. They also make a great addition to party platters or as a finger food option at gatherings. The more the merrier when it comes to sharing these delicious bites!
Buffalo Chicken Meatballs: Your New Favorite Game Day Snack
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a baking sheet with extra-virgin olive oil.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt unsalted butter, whisking in crumbled blue cheese and hot sauce until smooth. Season with kosher salt, then set aside to cool slightly.
- In a medium bowl, combine panko bread crumbs, finely chopped celery, minced garlic, large egg, sliced green onions, onion powder, and salt. Add in the ground chicken along with half of the prepared Buffalo sauce, blending until combined.
- Use a cookie scoop to portion the mixture into 1-inch meatballs, placing them evenly on the greased baking sheet.
- Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 15-17 minutes, or until they’re lightly golden and cooked through.
- Toss the warm meatballs gently in the remaining Buffalo sauce until they’re thoroughly coated.
- Serve the Buffalo Chicken Meatballs hot, accompanied by blue cheese dressing or ranch, and sprinkle with additional sliced green onions.