These Buffalo Chicken Meatballs are juicy and packed with flavor! Made from ground chicken, hot sauce, and cheese, they hit the spot for a tasty snack or meal.
They are so easy to whip up, and you can serve them with ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping. Trust me, they’ll make your taste buds dance! 🕺
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Chicken: This is the main ingredient that keeps the meatballs juicy. You can use ground turkey if you prefer a lighter option.
Panko Bread Crumbs: They add a nice crunch. If you don’t have panko, regular bread crumbs will work fine, but they might not be as crispy. Gluten-free options are also available!
Buffalo Wing Sauce: This gives the meatballs their classic flavor. If it’s too spicy for you, try using a mild sauce or mixing in some honey for sweetness.
Cheese: Mozzarella and Parmesan add creaminess. Feel free to swap mozzarella with cheddar for a different taste, or omit cheese if you’re avoiding dairy.
Egg: It helps bind everything together. If you’re egg-free, you can use ground flaxseed (1 tablespoon mixed with 3 tablespoons of water) as a binder.
How Do I Shape Meatballs Without Making a Mess?
Shaping meatballs can get a bit sticky! To make this easier, keep a bowl of water nearby. Wet your hands with water before forming each meatball. This will prevent the mixture from sticking to your hands.
- Use about 1-1.5 tablespoons of mixture to form each meatball.
- Try to keep them uniform in size so they cook evenly. Perfect for grabbing with your toothpicks later!
Remember, don’t overwork the mixture to keep your meatballs tender!
What’s the Best Way to Bake Meatballs?
Baking the meatballs helps them maintain their shape and keep them juicy. Here’s how:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Preheating is key for good browning!
- Line your baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Space the meatballs out well on the baking sheet to allow hot air to circulate and cook them evenly.
This technique not only cooks them nicely but also makes for easier cleanup!
Buffalo Chicken Meatballs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1/2 cup panko bread crumbs
- 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions
- 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1/3 cup buffalo wing sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)
- Ranch or blue cheese dressing (for drizzling or dipping)
- Fresh chopped parsley or celery leaves (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 20 minutes to bake, totaling around 30 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for when you want a quick and tasty meal or snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature will help your meatballs become nice and golden while cooking. Also, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken with panko bread crumbs, chopped green onions, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, the egg, and all the seasonings: garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until it’s well blended. Don’t be shy; get in there with your hands or a spatula!
3. Shape the Meatballs:
Now it’s time to form your meatballs! Take a small amount of the mixture (about 1 to 1 1/2 inches in diameter) and roll it into a ball between your palms. Place each meatball on the prepared baking sheet as you go. Make sure to give them a little space so they can cook evenly.
4. Bake the Meatballs:
Pop the meatballs into the preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes. They should be cooked through and lightly golden on the outside when done. You can check they’re fully cooked by making sure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
5. Coat with Buffalo Sauce:
While your meatballs are baking, warm up the buffalo wing sauce in a small saucepan or microwave until it’s nice and hot. You want it to coat the meatballs well!
6. Toss the Meatballs:
Once your meatballs are baked and ready, transfer them to a bowl and gently toss them with the warm buffalo wing sauce. Make sure all the meatballs get a delicious coating!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Arrange the saucy meatballs on a serving platter. Drizzle some ranch or blue cheese dressing over the top and add a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or celery leaves for a pop of color and flavor. For fun, insert toothpicks into each meatball, making them easy to grab—perfect for parties or snacking! Serve hot and enjoy every bite!
These meatballs pair perfectly with extra dipping sauce and crunchy celery sticks on the side. They’ll be a hit at your next gathering!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute and will work just as well in this recipe. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as it might vary slightly based on the meat’s fat content.
How Do I Store Leftover Meatballs?
Store any leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage. Just cool them to room temperature, then freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe bag or container.
Can I Make These Meatballs Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatball mixture ahead of time! Just refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before shaping and baking. If you prefer, you can also shape and bake them in advance, then reheat and toss in the buffalo sauce just before serving.
What Should I Serve with Buffalo Chicken Meatballs?
These meatballs are perfect for snacking or as a main dish! Serve them with ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping, and add crunchy celery sticks or carrot sticks for a fresh, complementary side. They also go great on a bed of lettuce for a low-carb option or alongside pasta or rice.
