Buffalo Chicken Meatballs

Name: Buffalo Chicken Meatballs
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 1/2 lb ground chicken; 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs; 1 large egg, lightly beaten; 1 small carrot, finely grated; 1 stick celery, minced; 2 green onions, minced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 tsp paprika; 1/2 tsp kosher sea salt; 1/4 tsp ground black pepper; 1/3 cup buffalo sauce (recommended: Frank's buffalo sauce); 3 tbsp ranch dressing or bleu cheese dressing

Recipe By:

Rachael

Posted:

January 30, 2025

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Buffalo Chicken Meatballs are a fun and tasty way to enjoy the flavors of buffalo wings without the mess! These little bites of goodness are packed with flavor and are perfect for parties, game day, or just a cozy night in. Plus, they’re a healthier alternative to traditional buffalo wings. Let’s dive right into why you’ll love this recipe!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Who doesn’t love buffalo wings? But they can be a little messy and sometimes not the healthiest choice. Buffalo Chicken Meatballs give you all that bold, spicy flavor without the hassle. They’re juicy, tender, and easy to make. You can whip these up in no time and impress your friends and family.

The combination of ground chicken and all those fresh veggies makes each bite delicious and satisfying. And the best part? You can enjoy them without guilt. Whether you’re hosting a party or just craving something spicy, these meatballs are sure to be a hit.

Healthier Alternative to Buffalo Wings

Buffalo Chicken Meatballs are a fantastic option if you’re looking for a healthier take on buffalo wings. Ground chicken is leaner than traditional chicken wings, which means fewer calories and less fat. Plus, by baking instead of frying, you cut down on extra oil and grease.

Adding ingredients like carrots and celery also boosts the nutrition of these meatballs. You’ll get vitamins and minerals without sacrificing flavor. It’s a win-win situation! You can indulge in the rich taste of buffalo sauce without feeling bad about what you’re eating.

Ingredients

To make these scrumptious Buffalo Chicken Meatballs, you will need the following ingredients:

1 1/2 lb ground chicken
1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
1 large egg, lightly beaten
1 small carrot, finely grated
1 stick celery, minced
2 green onions, minced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp kosher sea salt
1/4 tsp ground black pepper
1/3 cup buffalo sauce (recommended: Frank’s buffalo sauce)
3 tbsp ranch dressing or bleu cheese dressing

Gather these ingredients, and let’s get cooking!

Preparing the Meatball Mixture

Preheat the Oven

First things first—preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is essential for getting those meatballs crispy on the outside while keeping them juicy on the inside. Line a standard-size baking sheet with parchment paper or a baking mat. This will help prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.

Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, panko breadcrumbs, and beaten egg. It’s important to let the panko soak in the egg for about 5 minutes. This soaking time helps the breadcrumbs absorb moisture, giving you a tender meatball.

Now, it’s time to add the veggies! Toss in the grated carrot, minced celery, minced green onions, minced garlic, paprika, kosher salt, and black pepper. Each ingredient adds its own unique flavor to the mix, making these meatballs irresistible.

Mix Gently

Using your hands or a spatula, mix everything together until just combined. Be careful not to overwork the mixture. If you mix it too much, your meatballs can become dense and chewy. You want them light and fluffy!

Shaping and Baking the Meatballs

Form Meatballs

Now comes the fun part—shaping the meatballs! Using a spoon or a standard-sized cookie scoop, take a portion of the mixture and form it into a meatball. Aim for about 1.5 inches in diameter. Place each meatball on the prepared baking sheet, giving them some space so they can cook evenly.

Bake the Meatballs

Once you’ve shaped all the meatballs, pop them in the oven. Bake for about 15-20 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when they reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).

Keep an eye on them, as cooking times can vary depending on your oven. You want them perfectly browned and cooked through, not dried out!

Tossing in Buffalo Sauce

Coat the Meatballs

After baking, it’s time to add the magic—buffalo sauce! Remove the meatballs from the oven and transfer them to a large bowl. Pour in the buffalo sauce and gently toss to combine. Make sure each meatball is thoroughly coated in that spicy, flavorful goodness.

The warmth from the meatballs will help the sauce stick better, creating a delicious glaze that you won’t be able to resist.

Serving Suggestions

Drizzle with Dressing

Once the meatballs are coated in buffalo sauce, it’s time to serve! Drizzle with ranch or bleu cheese dressing for that classic buffalo flavor. If you want to get a little fancy, garnish with extra green onions for a pop of color and freshness.

These meatballs can be served on a platter for sharing, or you can make a fun meal by pairing them with some fresh veggie sticks like celery and carrots. They’re perfect for dipping!

Tips For Success

Use a digital meat thermometer to ensure the meatballs are cooked to the right temperature. It’s the best way to check without cutting them open.
Allow the panko breadcrumbs to soak for a few minutes. This simple step really enhances the texture of the meatballs, making them softer and more enjoyable.

Proper Storage

If you have any leftovers (which is unlikely!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

Variations

Feel free to get creative! You can substitute ground turkey for a different flavor profile. Want to switch things up even more? Experiment with different sauces like BBQ or teriyaki. These variations can give your meatballs a unique twist while still keeping the essence of that delicious buffalo flavor.

Recipe Notes

If you’re a heat lover, don’t be shy! Adjust the amount of buffalo sauce based on your spice preference.
For an extra kick of flavor, consider adding shredded cheese to the meat mixture. Cheese melts beautifully and creates a deliciously gooey surprise inside each meatball.

FAQs

Can I freeze these meatballs?
Absolutely! You can freeze both uncooked and cooked meatballs. Just place them in a freezer-safe container, and they’ll last up to 3 months. When you’re ready to use them, thaw and cook as needed.

What can I serve with buffalo chicken meatballs?
These meatballs pair perfectly with crunchy celery sticks, carrot sticks, or even a fresh garden salad. You can also serve them as sliders in small buns for a fun twist.

How spicy are these meatballs?
The spice level really depends on the buffalo sauce you choose. Frank’s buffalo sauce is on the mild to medium heat side, making it suitable for most palates.

Can I use other types of meat?
Yes! If you prefer, you can substitute ground beef, turkey, or pork. Each will bring its own unique flavor and texture.

Conclusion

With this simple and delicious buffalo chicken meatball recipe, you can enjoy a healthier alternative to traditional buffalo wings. These meatballs are easy to make and full of flavor, perfect for any gathering or a fun weeknight meal. So gather your ingredients, invite some friends, and get ready to impress everyone with these mouth-watering bites! Enjoy!

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Buffalo Chicken Meatballs

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Healthier Alternative to Buffalo Wings

Ingredients