These Buffalo Chicken Meatballs are packed with flavor and a little spice! Made with ground chicken, they’re rolled into tasty bites and mixed with hot sauce for a kick.
Perfect for game day or a casual snack, they’re sure to impress. I love serving them with some creamy ranch or blue cheese dip—it’s a match made in heaven! 🌟
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Chicken: Ground chicken is the main ingredient in this dish. If you’re looking for a leaner option, turkey is a great substitute and works well. For more flavor, you could also use ground beef or pork, but keep in mind it will change the taste.
Bread Crumbs: I prefer using plain breadcrumbs for a neutral base. If you want a kick of flavor, try Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs. Gluten-free breadcrumbs are a fantastic swap if you’re avoiding gluten!
Buffalo Wing Sauce: Frank’s RedHot is a popular choice. If you want a milder sauce, opt for a barbecue sauce mixed with a bit of hot sauce. You can even make your own Buffalo sauce using hot sauce and melted butter for a fresh touch.
Parmesan Cheese: While Parmesan adds a nice salty flavor, feel free to swap it with Pecorino Romano or even nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option. Both still offer great taste!
How Do I Make Sure My Meatballs Stay Tender?
To keep your meatballs from becoming too tough, follow these tips:
- Mix ingredients just until combined; overmixing can lead to a dense texture.
- Add moisture with the beaten egg and ensure your bread crumbs aren’t too dry.
- Shape them gently and not too tightly; this helps them stay moist during baking.
By paying attention to these details, you’ll create tender and juicy meatballs that everyone will love!
Buffalo Chicken Meatballs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup chopped celery (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- 3/4 cup Buffalo wing sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Fresh chopped parsley for garnish
- Ranch or blue cheese dressing, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time, plus around 15-18 minutes of baking time, making the total time about 30-35 minutes from start to finish. It’s quick and easy for a delicious meal or appetizer!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it heats up, you can prepare your baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or giving it a light coat of cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the Meatball Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, and chopped celery (if you’re using it). Then, sprinkle in the salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Gently mix all the ingredients until they are just combined, being careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatballs tough.
3. Shape the Meatballs:
Now it’s time to shape the mixture! Using your hands, roll the mixture into 1 1/2-inch meatballs and place them on your prepared baking sheet. Make sure they are spaced out evenly so they cook properly.
4. Bake the Meatballs:
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the meatballs for about 15-18 minutes, or until they are cooked through and starting to turn a nice golden brown. A good tip is to check that they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
5. Prepare the Buffalo Sauce:
While the meatballs are baking, you can get your Buffalo sauce ready! In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the butter. Once it’s melted, stir in the Buffalo wing sauce until well combined and warmed through. This will be the delicious coating for your meatballs!
6. Combine and Coat:
Once the meatballs are done baking, transfer them to a large bowl. Pour the warm Buffalo sauce over the meatballs and gently toss them until they are coated evenly with the sauce. This is where the magic happens!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your delicious Buffalo Chicken Meatballs hot. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color, and don’t forget to offer ranch or blue cheese dressing on the side for dipping. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in!
These Buffalo Chicken Meatballs are sure to be a hit at your next gathering or in your home kitchen. Enjoy every spicy, tangy bite!
Can I Use Leaner Meat Instead of Ground Chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great leaner alternative. If you prefer a different flavor, you can also use ground pork or beef, but it will change the overall taste of the meatballs.
Can I Make the Meatballs Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatballs a day in advance! Just shape them and store them in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, you can cook them directly from the fridge. Just add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
If you prefer milder meatballs, use less Buffalo sauce or mix in some barbecue sauce. For an extra spicy kick, you can add more hot sauce or incorporate some chopped jalapeños into the meatball mixture!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave or in a skillet with a bit of sauce to keep them moist!
