If you’ve been hunting for a show-stopping appetizer that’s packed with flavor and guaranteed to disappear fast, this Buffalo Chicken Meatballs Recipe is your new best friend. Picture juicy, tender meatballs coated in a spicy, buttery buffalo sauce that brings just the right kick. These meatballs strike the perfect balance between comfort food and party snack, making them absolutely irresistible whether you’re hosting a game day gathering, a casual dinner, or simply craving something deliciously bold. Let me walk you through the magic of creating these crave-worthy bites that brighten up any table!
Ingredients You’ll Need
When it comes to this recipe, simplicity is key, yet each ingredient plays a vital role in building layers of flavor, texture, and color. From the fresh crunch of celery to the savory hints of garlic and onion powders, everything comes together in perfect harmony.
- 1 pound ground chicken: The lean base that keeps these meatballs tender and moist without heaviness.
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs: Adds the ideal binder and a slight chew, keeping the meatballs perfectly firm.
- 1 large egg: Helps to hold everything together, ensuring your meatballs don’t fall apart.
- 1/4 cup finely chopped celery: Gives a subtle crunch and fresh vegetable flavor.
- 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions: Brightens the mix with a mild onion note and a pop of green color.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses a deep, savory essence that’s essential to buffalo flavor profiles.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Adds a mellow sweetness that balances the heat.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors for that well-rounded taste.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Gives a bit of gentle heat and complexity.
- 1 tablespoon melted butter: Combined with buffalo sauce, it makes the coating rich and luscious.
- 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce (plus extra for serving): The star of the show, delivering spicy tang and signature buffalo zest.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Perfect for greasing the pan or adding a touch of crispness.
- Blue cheese or ranch dressing for dipping (optional): Cool, creamy companions that beautifully tame the heat.
- Chopped parsley or green onion for garnish (optional): Adds a fresh finish and vibrant splash of color.
How to Make Buffalo Chicken Meatballs Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Mix Ingredients
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C), then line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup. In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, egg, finely chopped celery, green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to gently mix everything just until combined—overmixing can lead to tough meatballs, so be gentle here!
Step 2: Shape the Meatballs
Roll the mixture into 1 1/2-inch meatballs. This size keeps them juicy on the inside and allows for just the right amount of buffalo sauce coverage. Place them evenly spaced on your prepared baking sheet to bake beautifully without sticking together.
Step 3: Bake to Perfection
Pop the tray in the oven and bake for about 15 to 18 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and have a lovely golden tint. The baking process allows the chicken to stay tender while developing a gentle crust for texture.
Step 4: Toss in Buffalo Sauce
While the meatballs are baking, stir together the melted butter and buffalo wing sauce in a large mixing bowl. Once the meatballs come out hot from the oven, toss them right into this spicy, buttery pool until each meatball is fully coated in that irresistible sauce.
Step 5: Ready to Serve
Serve your buffalo chicken meatballs immediately for the best juicy, saucy experience. Garnish if you’d like, and offer extra buffalo sauce or dipping dressings on the side. This final step takes these bites from delicious to downright addictive.
How to Serve Buffalo Chicken Meatballs Recipe
Garnishes
Adding chopped parsley or green onions is a simple way to introduce fresh herbal notes and visual appeal. Plus, offering blue cheese or ranch dressing on the side complements the spicy sauce by bringing in creamy, cooling elements. Trust me, that contrast makes every bite more enjoyable!
Side Dishes
This Buffalo Chicken Meatballs Recipe pairs perfectly with crispy celery sticks or carrot sticks, adding crunch and natural sweetness. If you want heartier options, consider creamy mashed potatoes or a crisp garden salad to balance the bold flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Elevate the experience by serving these meatballs on small skewers for easy grab-and-go at parties. You can also pile them on slider buns with a smear of ranch for tasty mini sandwiches. The versatility makes this recipe a crowd-pleaser no matter the occasion!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover buffalo chicken meatballs in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Keeping them coated in sauce helps maintain moisture and flavor during storage.
Freezing
If you want to make these ahead of time, freeze the meatballs before tossing in sauce. Arrange the shaped meatballs on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months.
Reheating
When you’re ready to enjoy again, reheat frozen or refrigerated meatballs gently in a covered skillet over low heat, adding extra buffalo sauce as they warm. This method prevents drying out and keeps that vibrant buffalo flavor front and center.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken for this Buffalo Chicken Meatballs Recipe?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a fantastic substitute and will provide a similar texture and mild flavor that works well with the spicy buffalo sauce.
How can I make these meatballs spicier?
For an extra kick, add a dash of cayenne pepper or more buffalo wing sauce into the mix or while tossing the cooked meatballs. Adjust according to your spice tolerance!
Are these meatballs gluten-free?
They can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs. This way, everyone can enjoy these flavorful bites without worry.
Can I bake the meatballs ahead and toss in sauce later?
Yes, you can bake the meatballs in advance and store them separately. When ready to serve, warm them up and toss in the buffalo sauce for fresh, saucy goodness.
What dipping sauces go best with Buffalo Chicken Meatballs Recipe?
Blue cheese and ranch dressing are classic choices that complement the heat beautifully. You could also try a cooling cucumber yogurt dip or even a tangy garlic aioli for a twist.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about sharing food that’s bold, comforting, and full of personality—and this Buffalo Chicken Meatballs Recipe nails that every single time. Whether it’s an easy weeknight dinner or the star of your next get-together, these meatballs are sure to make your taste buds sing and your guests ask for seconds. So grab your ingredients and give this recipe a whirl—you might find it’s your new go-to favorite!
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Buffalo Chicken Meatballs Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Total Time: 33 minutes
- Yield: 20 meatballs
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
These Buffalo Chicken Meatballs are a spicy, flavorful appetizer perfect for game day or parties. Made with ground chicken and a blend of savory seasonings, they’re baked to golden perfection and tossed in a tangy buffalo wing sauce. Served with blue cheese or ranch dressing and garnished with fresh herbs, they offer a delicious kick with every bite.
Ingredients
Meatballs
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup finely chopped celery
- 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Sauce
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
- 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce (plus extra for serving)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
To Serve (Optional)
- Blue cheese or ranch dressing for dipping
- Chopped parsley or green onion for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and for easy cleanup.
- Mix Meatball Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, egg, finely chopped celery, green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined to keep the meatballs tender without overworking the meat.
- Form Meatballs: Shape the mixture into 1 1/2-inch meatballs using your hands, placing each on the prepared baking sheet spaced evenly.
- Bake Meatballs: Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 15 to 18 minutes, or until they are cooked thoroughly and turn golden brown on the outside.
- Prepare Buffalo Sauce: While meatballs bake, stir together the melted butter and buffalo wing sauce in a large mixing bowl. This mixture will coat the meatballs after baking.
- Toss Meatballs in Sauce: Once the meatballs are out of the oven and still hot, transfer them into the buffalo sauce and toss until each meatball is well coated with the spicy sauce.
- Serve: Serve immediately with extra buffalo sauce or your choice of blue cheese or ranch dressing for dipping. Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions for added freshness and color if desired.
Notes
- Add a dash of cayenne pepper to the meatball mixture for an extra spicy kick.
- Make the meatballs ahead of time and reheat them in the buffalo sauce before serving.
- Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets.
