These Buffalo Chicken Meatballs are packed with flavor! Juicy chicken mixed with spicy buffalo sauce creates a tasty treat that’s hard to resist. Perfect for game day or a fun dinner night!
Honestly, I can’t help but munch on these as a snack. They’re just too good! I love serving them with some cool ranch dressing on the side. So yummy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Chicken: This is the base of your meatballs. If you prefer a lighter option, ground turkey works great too. For a beefier flavor, ground beef is an easy substitute!
Bread Crumbs: I usually use plain breadcrumbs, but panko offers a crunchier texture. If you need a gluten-free option, try using crushed gluten-free crackers or oats.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a nice flavor, but if you want to skip it, nutritional yeast can provide a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
Buffalo Wing Sauce: Frank’s RedHot is a popular choice, but any hot sauce you like will do! For less heat, opt for a milder sauce or mix it with some ketchup.
How Do I Keep My Meatballs Tender?
Achieving tender meatballs is all about gentle mixing and the right amount of moisture. Here’s how to do it:
- Mix the ingredients just until combined. Overmixing can make them tough.
- Adding an egg helps bind the mixture while keeping it moist.
- If using lean chicken, consider adding a bit of olive oil or more sauce to keep them juicy.
Following these tips will ensure your meatballs are deliciously tender every time! Happy cooking!
Buffalo Chicken Meatballs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions (optional)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust for heat preference)
Buffalo Sauce:
- 1/3 cup buffalo wing sauce (like Frank’s RedHot)
- 2 tbsp melted butter
Garnish:
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and roughly 25-30 minutes to cook. You’ll have a tasty platter of Buffalo Chicken Meatballs ready in about 40 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
First things first! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or give it a light coating of cooking spray to prevent sticking!
2. Mix the Meatball Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, and optional green onions. Add in the salt, pepper, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Mix everything gently until just combined—be careful not to overmix, as we want these meatballs to stay tender!
3. Shape the Meatballs:
Now, shape the mixture into golf-ball-sized meatballs. Place them evenly spaced on your prepared baking sheet. This helps them cook evenly and ensures they brown nicely!
4. Bake the Meatballs:
Pop the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake those beauties for about 15-18 minutes. You want them cooked through and just slightly golden on the outside!
5. Prepare the Buffalo Sauce:
While the meatballs are baking, mix the buffalo wing sauce with melted butter in a bowl. This combo will enhance the flavor and give it that rich, creamy texture we love!
6. Toss in Sauce:
When the meatballs are done, take them out of the oven and toss them in the buffalo sauce until they’re nicely coated. The sooner you do this while they’re still hot, the better!
7. Bake Again:
Return the coated meatballs to the baking sheet and bake for another 5 minutes. This will allow the sauce to set and add even more flavor!
8. Garnish and Serve:
Finally, remove them from the oven, sprinkle with chopped parsley or cilantro, and serve your delicious Buffalo Chicken Meatballs hot!
9. The Perfect Sides:
These meatballs are fantastic alone, but why not serve them with fresh celery sticks, carrot sticks, and your favorite ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping? Enjoy your meal!
These Buffalo Chicken Meatballs are always a hit, especially during game days or parties. Enjoy that spicy kick!
Can I Use Frozen Ground Chicken for This Recipe?
Definitely! If using frozen ground chicken, make sure to thaw it completely in the fridge overnight or in a microwave if you’re short on time. This ensures even cooking and better texture for your meatballs.
Can I Make These Meatballs Gluten-Free?
Absolutely! Just replace the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. This keeps the meatballs crispy without compromising flavor!
How Do I Store Leftover Meatballs?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply bake in the oven or microwave until warmed through!
Can I Adjust the Level of Spiciness?
Yes! You can adjust the cayenne pepper according to your spice preference or swap the buffalo sauce for a milder hot sauce. Tasting as you go will help you find the perfect balance for your palate!
