Name: Buffalo Chicken Meatballs
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1 pound ground chicken (lean); 1 large egg; ¼ cup dried breadcrumbs (or sub with gluten-free breadcrumbs or ⅓ cup almond flour); 1 medium carrot, finely grated; ¼ cup sliced green onion; 2 cloves garlic, minced; ½ teaspoon smoked paprika; ½ teaspoon onion powder; ½ teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper; 6 tablespoons buffalo wing sauce (divided)

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Buffalo chicken meatballs are a fun and delicious twist on a classic dish.

They bring that spicy, tangy flavor we all love from buffalo chicken wings but in a healthier, bite-sized form.

Whether you’re hosting a game day party or just looking for a new dinner idea, these meatballs are sure to be a hit.

They’re easy to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for dipping.

Let’s get cooking!

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

There are so many reasons to love these buffalo chicken meatballs.

First and foremost, they are incredibly flavorful.

The combination of ground chicken, spices, and of course, buffalo sauce elevates this dish to a whole new level.

They are also versatile! Serve them as an appetizer, main dish, or even in a salad.

You can make them ahead of time and store them for later, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

Plus, they’re a leaner option than traditional buffalo wings, meaning you can indulge without the guilt.

Ingredients

To make these delicious buffalo chicken meatballs, you’ll need the following ingredients:

1 pound (450 g) ground chicken (lean)
1 large egg
¼ cup dried breadcrumbs (or sub with gluten-free breadcrumbs or ⅓ cup almond flour)
1 medium carrot, finely grated
¼ cup sliced green onion
2 cloves garlic, minced
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
6 tablespoons buffalo wing sauce (divided)

How To Make Buffalo Chicken Meatballs

Making buffalo chicken meatballs is super simple! Just follow these easy steps:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C).

This will ensure your meatballs get that perfect golden-brown crust.

Step 2: Prepare the Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, egg, breadcrumbs (or almond flour), grated carrot, sliced green onion, minced garlic, smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.

Mix everything together until well combined.

You can use your hands or a spoon, but make sure not to overmix as this can make the meatballs tough.

Step 3: Shape the Meatballs

Once everything is well mixed, take a small portion of the mixture and shape it into a meatball, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter.

Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

This helps with easy cleanup!

Step 4: Coat with Buffalo Sauce

Drizzle half of the buffalo sauce (about 3 tablespoons) over the meatballs, making sure they are well coated.

This adds a fantastic flavor right from the start.

Step 5: Bake the Meatballs

Put the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the meatballs are cooked through and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

The outside should be beautifully browned.

Step 6: Add More Sauce

Once the meatballs are done cooking, remove them from the oven and drizzle the remaining buffalo sauce over them.

Toss them gently to coat.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve your buffalo chicken meatballs hot, with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ranch or blue cheese, and enjoy the bursts of flavor in every bite!

Expert Tips

Don’t overmix the ingredients when making the meatball mixture; this keeps them tender.
If you like it spicy, feel free to add some cayenne pepper or extra buffalo sauce into the mixture.
For a healthier option, bake instead of frying to keep them lighter without sacrificing taste.
Use a cookie scoop to ensure uniform meatballs for even cooking.

Variations and Customizations

Swap out the ground chicken for ground turkey for a different flavor.
Add crumbled feta cheese or shredded mozzarella for a cheesy twist.
Mix in some finely chopped celery for added crunch and flavor.
Gluten-free? Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour as a binder.

How to Store Leftovers

If you have leftovers (which is unlikely because they’re so good!), you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

To reheat, simply pop them in the microwave or toss them back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

You can also freeze the cooked meatballs! Just place them in a freezer-safe container and they’ll last for up to 3 months.

Thaw in the fridge before reheating for the best results.

FAQ

Can I use another type of meat for the meatballs?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or even lean beef can be used as alternatives.

Just keep in mind that the flavor and texture may change a bit.

Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the meatballs ahead of time and store them in the fridge before cooking.

You can also cook them and then store for later consumption.

What kind of dipping sauce pairs well with buffalo chicken meatballs?

Ranch dressing and blue cheese dressing are classic choices.

Both complement the spicy flavor of the meatballs perfectly!

Can I bake these meatballs in a different way?

Yes! You can also cook these meatballs in an air fryer for a crispy texture or even sauté them on the stovetop if you prefer.

Just adjust the cooking time as needed.

Conclusion

Buffalo chicken meatballs are more than just a tasty dish—they’re a delicious way to enjoy those bold buffalo wing flavors in a healthier package.

With simple ingredients, straightforward steps, and endless customization options, they make for a perfect meal anytime.

So gather your ingredients and give this easy recipe a try; your taste buds will thank you! Enjoy every spicy, savory bite with your favorite dip, and share them with friends and family for an unforgettable flavor experience.