If you’re a fan of bold flavors and crave-worthy appetizers, these Buffalo Chicken Meatballs will quickly become your go-to crowd-pleaser. Imagine juicy chicken meatballs infused with zesty seasonings, baked until golden, and then smothered in the perfect blend of spicy buffalo sauce and creamy butter. Whether you’re serving them at a game day gathering, family dinner, or as a quick snack, this dish brings all the excitement of classic Buffalo wings in a tidy, poppable package. Once you try these, you’ll never look at meatballs the same way again!
Ingredients You’ll Need
You only need a handful of straightforward ingredients to whip up these irresistible Buffalo Chicken Meatballs. Each one brings its own special flair to the table, building up layers of flavor and texture. Here’s why every ingredient matters:
- Ground chicken: The lean and tender base that soaks up all the beloved buffalo flavors.
- Breadcrumbs: Acts as the binder and gives the meatballs their perfect, juicy bite. Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to keep it diet-friendly!
- Egg: Adds moisture and helps everything hold together beautifully.
- Green onions: These bring a mild sharpness and pop of color to the mix.
- Garlic powder: For that subtle kick and depth of flavor you’d miss if it were left out.
- Onion powder: Boosts the savoriness, making every bite more delightful.
- Salt: Essential for drawing out all the flavors.
- Black pepper: Lends gentle heat and rounds out the seasoning.
- Melted butter: When combined with hot sauce, creates that classic, mouthwatering buffalo coating.
- Buffalo wing sauce: The star of the show, giving the meatballs their signature spice and tang.
- Optional ranch or blue cheese dressing: Perfect for drizzling or dipping, and it helps mellow the heat if you wish!
How to Make Buffalo Chicken Meatballs
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Sheet
First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F for even, golden results. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and for easy cleanup, so you can focus on the fun part—making the meatballs!
Step 2: Mix the Meatball Ingredients
Grab a large bowl and combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, egg, green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently until everything is just combined—be careful not to overwork it, or your Buffalo Chicken Meatballs might end up dense instead of tender.
Step 3: Form the Meatballs
Using a tablespoon or small cookie scoop, shape the mixture into 20–24 small meatballs. Place them evenly spaced on your prepped baking sheet. They don’t expand much, so a little crowding is fine!
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Slide the tray into your hot oven and bake the meatballs for 15–18 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when they’re cooked through and lightly golden on top. For a crispier finish, try the air fryer method mentioned in the recipe notes!
Step 5: Toss in Buffalo Sauce
While the meatballs bake, whisk together the melted butter and buffalo wing sauce in a large bowl. When the piping hot Buffalo Chicken Meatballs are done, transfer them right into the bowl and toss gently to coat every nook and cranny with that spicy, tangy sauce.
Step 6: Serve with Style
Serve your Buffalo Chicken Meatballs warm, with a side of ranch or blue cheese dressing if you like, or get creative with sides and garnishes (see below!).
How to Serve Buffalo Chicken Meatballs
Garnishes
Classic garnishes go a long way—think a sprinkle of freshly sliced green onions or chopped parsley for fresh color. You can also scatter crumbled blue cheese over the top if you adore the iconic flavor combo, or drizzle on extra sauce for those who like it fiery!
Side Dishes
Serve your Buffalo Chicken Meatballs alongside crisp celery and carrot sticks to balance the heat. They’re also fantastic with baked sweet potato fries, creamy coleslaw, or even a simple side salad for a complete meal. If you’re thinking bigger, tuck them inside slider rolls or lettuce wraps for a fun twist.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties, set out mini skewers or toothpicks to make your meatballs easy to grab. Pile them high on a platter with a little bowl of dipping sauce in the center, or turn them into a hearty sub sandwich! These Buffalo Chicken Meatballs also shine atop a bed of rice or tucked into a wrap for lunchboxes.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Buffalo Chicken Meatballs keep beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Just make sure to let them cool to room temperature before packing them away so they retain their succulence.
Freezing
Planning ahead? You can freeze fully cooked, cooled Buffalo Chicken Meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep for up to 2 months—super handy for spontaneous snacking or meal prepping!
Reheating
To reheat, just pop the meatballs in a 350°F oven for 10–12 minutes, or give them a quick zap in the microwave. If they’re a bit dry, a splash of extra buffalo sauce does wonders to revive their spicy, saucy glory.
FAQs
Can I make Buffalo Chicken Meatballs ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can mix and shape the meatballs a day ahead and keep them covered in the fridge. When you’re ready, just bake and toss them in sauce for fresh, party-ready flavor in minutes.
Are Buffalo Chicken Meatballs gluten-free?
They totally can be! Simply swap in certified gluten-free breadcrumbs and double-check your wing sauce and dressings. The result is every bit as tasty, with none of the gluten worries.
How spicy are these meatballs?
The heat level is totally up to you since it depends on your choice of buffalo sauce. For extra spice, add a pinch of cayenne to the mix, or tame the heat with a little more butter or a mild sauce.
Do I need to use ground chicken, or can I swap in turkey?
Ground turkey works just as well! It’ll be a touch leaner but still soaks up the buffalo flavors. Just make sure to use a blend with some fat for the juiciest results.
Can I cook Buffalo Chicken Meatballs in the air fryer?
Yes! Place them in a single layer and air fry at 375°F for 10–12 minutes. You’ll get deliciously crispy outsides and a juicy center with even less prep time.
Final Thoughts
There’s something magical about these Buffalo Chicken Meatballs—they’re spicy, saucy, and impossible to resist. Whether you’re hosting a party or treating yourself to a flavorful dinner, I can’t recommend them enough. Give them a try and prepare to watch them disappear faster than you can say “seconds, please!”
Print
Buffalo Chicken Meatballs Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Total Time: 28 minutes
- Yield: 20–24 meatballs
- Category: Appetizer, Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
These Buffalo Chicken Meatballs are a spicy twist on a classic appetizer favorite. Made with ground chicken, green onions, and a flavorful blend of seasonings, these meatballs are baked to perfection and then coated in a tangy buffalo sauce. Perfect for game day gatherings or as a tasty dinner option.
Ingredients
For the meatballs:
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 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
For the sauce:
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
- 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce
- Optional: ranch or blue cheese dressing for serving
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare the meatballs: In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, egg, green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Form small meatballs and place them on the baking sheet.
- Bake the meatballs: Bake for 15–18 minutes until cooked through and golden.
- Make the sauce: Whisk together melted butter and buffalo sauce in a large bowl. Toss the baked meatballs in the sauce to coat evenly.
- Serve: Serve warm with ranch or blue cheese dressing if desired.
Notes
- These meatballs can also be made in the air fryer for a quicker cooking option.
- To increase the spiciness, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the meat mixture.
- Enjoy these meatballs as appetizers, in lettuce wraps, or sliders.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 meatballs
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
