There’s something incredibly satisfying about biting into a perfectly cooked meatball, especially when it’s packed with spicy buffalo flavor. Recently, after a particularly long week, I found myself craving a comforting yet healthier alternative to traditional meatballs. That’s when these Buffalo Chicken Meatballs came to life in my kitchen. The smell of buffalo sauce mingled with garlic and spices made my mouth water in anticipation.
Not only are these meatballs a lean protein powerhouse, they’re also deceptively easy to prepare, making them perfect for a weeknight dinner or an impressive appetizer for game day. With a juicy interior and a crispy exterior, they bring all the excitement of buffalo wings but in a bite-sized form. Tossed in even more buffalo sauce and garnished with fresh chives, these meatballs are sure to be a hit with family and friends. Let’s dive into how to make this crowd-pleasing dish that’s sure to spice up your culinary repertoire!
Why are Buffalo Chicken Meatballs a must-try?
Flavor Explosion: The spicy buffalo sauce offers a tantalizing twist that elevates the classic meatball.
Healthier Twist: Made with lean ground chicken, these meatballs are lower in fat, fitting perfectly into health-conscious meals.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Perfect for game day or casual gatherings, they’re sure to impress guests with their bold flavor.
Ease of Preparation: With just a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you’ll have delicious meatballs ready in no time.
Versatile Options: Serve them with dipping sauces or on slider buns for a fun twist, making them adaptable for any occasion.
Buffalo Chicken Meatballs Ingredients
For the Meatballs
• Ground Chicken – The main protein source giving these meatballs their juicy consistency; can easily be swapped with ground turkey for a leaner option.
• Breadcrumbs – Acts as a binder to hold the meatball mix together; gluten-free breadcrumbs are perfect if you’re watching for gluten.
• Egg – Binds everything together, providing structure; a flaxseed egg is a fantastic plant-based alternative!
• Buffalo Sauce – Infuses the meatballs with that signature spicy flavor; feel free to adjust the amount based on your heat preference!
• Garlic Powder – Enhances the flavor profile; you can also use fresh minced garlic for a punchier taste.
• Onion Powder – Adds sweetness and aroma; if desired, use fresh onion but remember it may change the moisture content.
• Salt and Pepper – Season to taste for a perfectly balanced dish.
• Chives or Green Onions – Offers a fresh garnish and a burst of color when serving!
Optional Tossing Sauce
• Additional Buffalo Sauce – For those who like an extra kick, tossing the cooked meatballs in more buffalo sauce before serving enhances the flavor even further.
These Buffalo Chicken Meatballs are a game-changer for your next gathering or a cozy family dinner!
How to Make Buffalo Chicken Meatballs
-
Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures your meatballs will cook evenly, achieving that perfect crispy exterior while remaining juicy inside.
-
Prepare the Mixture: In a large bowl, gently combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, egg, buffalo sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined, maintaining tenderness by avoiding overmixing.
-
Form the Meatballs: Shape the mixture into approximately 1-inch meatballs, and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Give them a little space to breathe; this will help them cook evenly.
-
Bake the Meatballs: Bake the meatballs for about 20 minutes or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). They should be beautifully golden brown and firm to the touch.
-
Toss in Buffalo Sauce: If you crave extra spice, toss the baked meatballs in additional buffalo sauce right after removing them from the oven. This step amplifies that signature flavor!
-
Serve: Garnish with fresh chopped chives or green onions and serve warm with blue cheese crumbles and ranch dressing for an irresistible finishing touch.
Optional: Pair with celery sticks for a classic buffalo wing experience.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Buffalo Chicken Meatballs
- Fridge: Store cooked Buffalo Chicken Meatballs in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure they are completely cooled before sealing to maintain flavor and texture.
- Freezer: Freeze meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet for 1–2 hours, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They can be kept for up to 3 months without sacrificing taste.
- Reheating: For best results, reheat meatballs in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or microwave them for 2-3 minutes, adding extra buffalo sauce if desired.
- Thawing: If frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to retain juiciness and flavor. Enjoy these delicious meatballs anytime you crave a spicy bite!
Make Ahead Options
These Buffalo Chicken Meatballs are a fantastic choice for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the meatball mixture and form the balls up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For longer storage, freeze the uncooked meatballs for up to 3 months—just make sure to lay them flat on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to enjoy, bake from frozen, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time. This way, you’ll have delicious, spicy meatballs ready to impress your family or guests with minimal effort!
Buffalo Chicken Meatball Variations
Customize your meal with these delightful twists that make each bite even more exciting and personalized!
-
Ground Turkey: Swap ground chicken for ground turkey for a leaner meatball while keeping the same juicy flavor.
-
BBQ Sauce: If you prefer a milder kick, replace buffalo sauce with BBQ sauce for a sweet and tangy experience that’s equally satisfying.
-
Cheesy Bliss: Mix in shredded cheese like cheddar or mozzarella into the meatball mixture for added creaminess and flavor bursts with each bite.
-
Spicy Heat: Add diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes to the mixture for an extra layer of heat, perfect for spice lovers!
-
Herb Enhance: Incorporate fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro into the mixture for a fresh taste that complements the buffalo sauce beautifully.
-
Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian twist, replace ground chicken with a mix of mashed beans and quinoa, plus some added seasoning for that rich flavor.
-
Asian Fusion: Use soy sauce and a dash of sesame oil instead of buffalo sauce to create an Asian-inspired meatball that brings a whole new flavor profile.
-
Crispy Finish: After baking, broil the meatballs for a couple of minutes to achieve a delightful crispy exterior that takes them to the next level.
Expert Tips for Buffalo Chicken Meatballs
-
Avoid Overmixing: Gently combine ingredients to keep the meatballs tender; overmixing can lead to tough textures.
-
Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on your meatballs while baking to prevent drying out; the ideal internal temperature is 165°F (74°C).
-
Rest Before Serving: Allow meatballs to rest for a few minutes after baking; this enhances flavor absorption and juiciness.
-
Adjust Heat: Modify the amount of buffalo sauce based on your spice tolerance; little adjustments can make a big difference.
-
Experiment with Substitutes: Feel free to substitute ground chicken with turkey for a leaner option, or use gluten-free breadcrumbs if needed.
These tips will ensure your Buffalo Chicken Meatballs turn out delicious every time!
What to Serve with Buffalo Chicken Meatballs?
These flavor-packed meatballs are all about bold, zesty flavors that just beg for delightful companions on your plate.
-
Celery Sticks:
Light and crisp, crunchy celery serves as the perfect cooling counterpoint to the heat of the buffalo sauce, adding a refreshing crunch with every bite. -
Blue Cheese Dressing:
Rich and tangy, this classic dip perfectly complements the spiciness of the meatballs while enhancing your overall buffalo experience. -
Homemade Ranch Dressing:
Creamy and herbaceous, a drizzle of ranch elevates the meatballs and provides a deliciously calming balance to their fiery kick. -
Sweet Potato Fries:
Savory and slightly sweet, these fries introduce a delightful contrast in taste and texture, making every bite an adventure. -
Quinoa Salad:
Nutty quinoa tossed with fresh veggies adds a healthy, protein-packed side that lightens up the meal while providing a burst of color. -
Beer or Cider:
Pair with a cold craft beer or a crisp apple cider for a refreshing beverage that complements the spicy flavors beautifully. -
Fruit Salad:
A side of mixed fruit or a citrus salad cuts through the richness and spice, delivering a light, sweet, and refreshing finish. -
Mini Slider Buns:
Transform the meatballs into sliders by serving them in soft, warm buns. Add a slice of pickle for that perfect tangy touch!
These accompaniments will transform your Buffalo Chicken Meatballs into a full-fledged feast that your family and friends will rave about!
Buffalo Chicken Meatballs Recipe FAQs
How do I select ripe ingredients for the Buffalo Chicken Meatballs?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, choose fresh ingredients. Look for ground chicken that is pink and moist. If using fresh garlic or onion, select bulbs that are firm with no dark spots or soft spots. Fresh chives or green onions should be vibrant green with no wilting.
How should I store leftover Buffalo Chicken Meatballs?
Very good question! Store cooked meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure they are completely cooled before sealing to maintain their flavor and texture. If you want them to last longer, freezing is a great option.
Can I freeze Buffalo Chicken Meatballs?
Absolutely! To freeze, first place the cooked meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about 1-2 hours. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, and they’ll last up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating!
What if my meatballs are dry after baking?
If your meatballs turn out dry, it could be due to overbaking or mixing too much. Ensure you don’t exceed the ideal baking time of 20 minutes and mix the meatball ingredients gently until just combined. Next time, you might want to add a hint more buffalo sauce to the mix for extra moisture!
Are there any dietary considerations for the Buffalo Chicken Meatballs?
Absolutely! These meatballs are already a healthier option, but you can easily modify them further. Use gluten-free breadcrumbs for those with gluten sensitivities, or a flaxseed egg as a vegan alternative. Always check your buffalo sauce for allergens, especially if you’re serving guests with food intolerances.
How can I reheat frozen Buffalo Chicken Meatballs?
Reheating is simple! For best results, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), and place the frozen meatballs on a baking tray. Bake for 15-20 minutes until heated through. You can also microwave them for 2-3 minutes, but adding a splash of buffalo sauce before reheating can enhance that delicious flavor!
Buffalo Chicken Meatballs: Healthy Spice for Game Day Fun
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the Oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, egg, buffalo sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined.
- Shape the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Bake the meatballs for about 20 minutes or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Toss the baked meatballs in additional buffalo sauce if desired for extra spice.
- Garnish with fresh chives or green onions and serve warm.
