These Buffalo chicken meatballs pack a punch! They’re juicy, spicy, and perfect for snacking or a fun dinner. You won’t believe how easy they are to make!
I love serving them with a side of creamy ranch for dipping. Just be careful; they vanish quickly when friends are around! 😂
What’s great is that they’re so simple to whip up. Just mix, roll, bake, and you’re ready for a tasty treat that everyone will love!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Chicken: This is the star of the meatballs! If you can’t find ground chicken, turkey works well too. Just keep in mind that turkey might be a tad drier, so watch the cooking time.
Panko Breadcrumbs: Panko gives a light, crispy texture. If you have regular breadcrumbs on hand, they can be used, but the texture won’t be as airy. You could also use oatmeal or crushed crackers in a pinch!
Parmesan Cheese: Adds a delicious salty flavor. Pecorino Romano is a great substitute if you need something sharper. Nutritional yeast can work for a dairy-free option.
Buffalo Wing Sauce: Pick your favorite brand! If you want less heat, you can mix it with some tomato sauce or find a milder wing sauce. Homemade buffalo sauce is also a fun option, using butter and hot sauce.
How Do I Shape Meatballs Without Making a Mess?
Shaping meatballs can get sticky, but it’s easy with a few tips! First, keep your hands wet with a little water; this helps prevent the mixture from sticking to your hands. Also, don’t squeeze too hard; gently roll the mixture to form a ball.
- After mixing the ingredients, use a tablespoon or small scoop to portion out the meat.
- Wet your hands, then roll the mixture into balls, keeping them about 1.5 inches wide.
- Place the meatballs on the baking sheet without crowding them so they cook evenly.
This way, you’ll have nicely shaped meatballs ready to bake!
Buffalo Chicken Meatballs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1/3 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions or chives
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)
- 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
- 2 tbsp melted butter
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Ranch or blue cheese dressing, for serving
- Celery sticks, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 15-18 minutes to bake. Total time is approximately 30 minutes from start to finish, making it a great choice for a quick and flavorful meal or appetizer!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or give it a light coat of cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Meatball Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, green onions, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Mix everything together gently until just combined. Remember, don’t overwork the mixture; you want juicy meatballs!
3. Shape the Meatballs:
With clean hands, shape the mixture into meatballs about 1.5 inches in diameter. Place them evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet. This helps the heat circulate around each meatball for even cooking.
4. Bake the Meatballs:
Pop the baking sheet in the oven and bake the meatballs for 15-18 minutes, or until they are cooked through and golden brown on the outside. You want to make sure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
5. Toss with Buffalo Sauce:
While the meatballs are baking, whisk together the buffalo wing sauce and melted butter in a small bowl until smooth. This will give a rich flavor to your meatballs.
6. Coat the Meatballs:
Once the meatballs are done baking, transfer them to a larger bowl and pour the buffalo sauce mixture over them. Gently toss until the meatballs are evenly coated in that spicy, buttery goodness!
7. Serve and Garnish:
Transfer the coated meatballs to a serving bowl. For a fresh touch, sprinkle chopped parsley or cilantro on top. This adds a nice color and flavor contrast!
8. Enjoy:
Serve the buffalo chicken meatballs warm with ranch or blue cheese dressing on the side for dipping. Don’t forget the celery sticks for a crunchy contrast!
Enjoy these spicy, tangy Buffalo chicken meatballs as a fun appetizer or a flavorful meal!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute for ground chicken. Just keep in mind that turkey might be a bit drier, so keep an eye on the cooking time to avoid overbaking.
What Can I Substitute for Panko Breadcrumbs?
If you don’t have panko breadcrumbs, you can use regular breadcrumbs, crushed crackers, or even oatmeal. Just be aware that the texture might be a little different, but they will still bind the meatballs effectively.
Can I Make These Meatballs Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatball mixture in advance and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. This can save you time and enhance the flavors. Just shape the meatballs just before baking to keep them fresh!
How Do I Store Leftover Meatballs?
Leftover meatballs should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Simply reheat in the oven or microwave when you’re ready to enjoy them again!