There’s nothing quite like the savory aroma of Buffalo chicken meatballs wafting through the kitchen as you prepare for game day. With a perfect balance of heat and creaminess, these little bites pack a flavor punch that will have everyone raving. I first whipped them up in an attempt to find a crowd-pleasing appetizer that didn’t involve the usual messy wing scenario, and let me tell you, they were an instant hit! The combination of tender ground chicken, zesty Frank’s Hot Sauce, and a luscious blue cheese coating creates an irresistible finger food that’s not just easy to make, but also ideal for sharing.
Whether you’re hosting friends for the big game, or just want to spice up your dinner routine, these meatballs are versatile and ready to impress. Plus, they come together in no time, leaving you more moments to enjoy with your loved ones. So, grab your apron and let’s dive into these mouthwatering Buffalo chicken meatballs that are sure to become a staple in your home!
Why are Buffalo Chicken Meatballs a Must-Try?
Irresistible Flavor: The bold zing of Frank’s Hot Sauce combined with creamy blue cheese creates a flavor explosion everyone will adore.
Effortless Preparation: With just a few simple ingredients, these meatballs come together quickly, ideal for busy nights or last-minute gatherings.
Perfect Game Day Snack: Serve them up with toothpicks on game day, and watch your guests go wild over this delectable, mess-free alternative to chicken wings.
Versatile Options: Feel free to adjust the spice level or switch up the sauce to suit your crowd’s tastes—every bite is customizable!
Gathering Favorite: These meatballs are guaranteed to be a showstopper and a fantastic conversation starter, making them a hit at any social event!
Buffalo Chicken Meatballs Ingredients
For the Meatballs
• Ground Chicken – Main protein component; for a lean option, use chicken breast.
• Panko Bread Crumbs – Provides texture and binding; substitute with gluten-free bread crumbs for a gluten-free twist.
• Large Egg – Acts as a binder; for a vegan option, use flaxseed meal mixed with water.
• Garlic (finely chopped) – Provides depth of flavor; freshly minced garlic is always recommended.
• Celery (finely chopped) – Adds crunch and flavor; can be omitted if desired.
• Onion Powder – Enhances seasoning; fresh onions can be used in place if preferred.
For the Buffalo Sauce
• Unsalted Butter – Adds richness to the sauce; can substitute with olive oil for a lighter option.
• Hot Sauce (preferably Frank’s RedHot) – The key flavor contributor; increase quantity for an extra spice kick.
• Crumbled Blue Cheese – Adds creaminess and flavor; substitute feta cheese if you desire a different taste.
For the Garnish
• Sliced Green Onions – Enhances flavor and presentation; can swap with chives if you prefer.
These Buffalo chicken meatballs are not only flavorful but also come together effortlessly, making them an easy appetizer for any gathering!
How to Make Buffalo Chicken Meatballs
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Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking sheet with olive oil, ensuring a non-stick surface for your meatballs.
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Prepare the Buffalo sauce by melting unsalted butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in crumbled blue cheese and Frank’s Hot Sauce until smooth, then set aside to cool slightly.
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Make the meatball mixture: In a large bowl, blend the panko breadcrumbs, finely chopped garlic, egg, celery, onion powder, and a pinch of salt. Once combined, gently fold in the ground chicken and half of your cool Buffalo sauce until everything is well incorporated.
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Form meatballs: Using a cookie scoop, portion out the mixture and shape into 1-inch meatballs, placing them on your prepared baking sheet.
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Bake for 15-17 minutes, or until the meatballs are lightly golden and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F.
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Toss cooked meatballs in the remaining Buffalo sauce to coat them thoroughly before serving, ensuring each meatball is bursting with flavor.
Optional: Serve with extra blue cheese or ranch dressing on the side for dipping.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Buffalo chicken meatballs are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the meatball mixture and shape them up to 24 hours in advance, simply refrigerate them in an airtight container to maintain their freshness. The Buffalo sauce can also be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, just bake the meatballs directly from the fridge and toss them in the warmed sauce for that delightful, spicy flavor. This way, you’ll enjoy delicious, homemade Buffalo chicken meatballs with minimal effort, making your game day or dinner gathering stress-free!
Expert Tips for Buffalo Chicken Meatballs
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Use Lean Chicken: Opt for ground chicken breast to keep the meatballs lean and healthy without sacrificing flavor.
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Don’t Overmix: Gently combine the chicken and ingredients to avoid tough meatballs. Tenderness is key for delicious Buffalo chicken meatballs.
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Chill the Mixture: For ease in forming meatballs, chill the mixture in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes before shaping. This helps maintain consistency.
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Adjust the Spice: For a milder version, reduce the amount of Frank’s Hot Sauce—start with less and adjust to taste for your guests.
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Bake Not Fry: Baking the meatballs instead of frying them makes preparation cleaner and healthier, while still delivering all the flavor.
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Garnish Wisely: Consider adding fresh herbs or extra blue cheese crumbles on top when serving, enhancing both presentation and taste of your Buffalo chicken meatballs.
Buffalo Chicken Meatballs Variations
Feel free to explore exciting twists and substitutions to make these meatballs uniquely yours!
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Spicy Twist: Add diced jalapeños to the meatball mixture for a fiery flavor that will excite your taste buds. Just make sure you adjust the amount based on your preferred heat level!
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Sauce Swap: Use ranch dressing instead of blue cheese sauce for a creamy alternative with different flavor notes. It’s a fantastic way to cater to a variety of taste preferences!
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Gluten-Free: Switch out the panko bread crumbs for gluten-free bread crumbs to enjoy this delicious appetizer without gluten. Your gluten-free friends will thank you!
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Vegan Version: Replace the ground chicken with lentils or chickpeas and use flaxseed meal mixed with water as a binder for a delightful plant-based option. These meatballs are just as satisfying and packed with flavor!
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Cheesy Delight: Consider adding shredded cheddar into the meat mixture for an extra cheesy version. It adds a delicious melty surprise in every bite!
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Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh parsley or cilantro for an aromatic twist that brightens the savory flavors. This can elevate the overall freshness of the dish.
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Milder Flavor: For those who prefer less heat, substitute with sweet chili sauce for a milder but still tasty coating. It brings a delightful sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the meatballs.
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Crunchy Coating: Experiment with a crushed tortilla chip crust for a delightful crunch. Press the meatballs into the crushed chips before baking for a fun texture that adds crunch!
Step outside of the box and let each variation reflect your flavor preferences! Happy cooking!
What to Serve with Buffalo Chicken Meatballs?
Transform your game day spread into an unforgettable feast by pairing these zesty meatballs with delightful accompaniments.
- Creamy Coleslaw: A refreshing, tangy slaw complements the spicy meatballs, providing a cool crunch that balances the heat.
- Buffalo Cauliflower Bites: For a veggie twist, these spicy bites mirror the flavors of the meatballs, making a perfect plant-based option. Enjoy them right alongside for a fun, colorful platter!
- Celery Sticks with Blue Cheese Dip: The classic pairing of crunchy celery dipped in rich blue cheese reinforces the flavors of your meatballs while adding a satisfying crunch.
- Baked Sweet Potato Fries: Sweet potato fries add a touch of sweetness and a crunchy texture to your meal, contrasting beautifully with the fiery meatballs.
- Beer or Cider: A cold pint of beer or a refreshing cider will enhance the overall experience, as the carbonation pairs perfectly with spicy foods.
- Mini Pretzel Bites: Soft pretzel bites served with mustard for dipping are a fun, bite-sized addition that keeps the mood casual and relaxed.
- Carrot Sticks: Fresh carrot sticks provide a crunchy and healthy side, offering a sip of freshness amidst the bold flavors of your main dish.
With these delicious pairings, your Buffalo chicken meatballs will shine even brighter, ensuring a game day spread that’s sure to impress!
How to Store and Freeze Buffalo Chicken Meatballs
Fridge: Store leftover Buffalo chicken meatballs in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days to keep them fresh and flavorful.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Thaw frozen meatballs overnight in the fridge before reheating. Warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.
Serving Tip: For added flavor, toss reheated meatballs in fresh Buffalo sauce before serving, making them taste like they were just made!
Buffalo Chicken Meatballs Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right ground chicken for Buffalo chicken meatballs?
Absolutely! For the best results, choose lean ground chicken breast. This option keeps the meatballs tender and flavorful yet healthier. Look for chicken with minimal visible fat, which will help your meatballs stay moist once cooked.
How should I store leftover Buffalo chicken meatballs?
Leftover meatballs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To keep them fresh, ensure they’re fully cooled before sealing. If you’re not planning to eat them within that timeframe, freezing is a great option.
Can I freeze Buffalo chicken meatballs? If so, how?
Very! To freeze your Buffalo chicken meatballs, first, cook them fully and let them cool completely. Then, place the meatballs in a single layer on a lined baking sheet and freeze for about 2 hours until solid. Next, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag, squeezing out as much air as possible. They can be kept frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat!
What should I do if my meatballs turn out dry?
Don’t worry; we’ve all had days like that! If your meatballs end up dry, try adding a touch of chicken broth or olive oil to the mixture next time to help keep moisture in. Also, be careful not to overmix when combining the ingredients, as that can lead to tougher meatballs.
Are Buffalo chicken meatballs suitable for those with gluten allergies?
Absolutely! To make these Buffalo chicken meatballs gluten-free, simply substitute regular panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs. Make sure to check that all sauces, especially the hot sauce and blue cheese, are labeled gluten-free as well.
Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?
Yes, indeed! You can prepare the meatball mixture and form the meatballs a day in advance. Just store them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. For maximum freshness, bake them just before serving so they have that warm, tender taste everyone loves!
Buffalo Chicken Meatballs: Your New Favorite Game Day Snack
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking sheet with olive oil.
- Prepare the Buffalo sauce by melting unsalted butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in crumbled blue cheese and Frank's Hot Sauce until smooth, then set aside to cool slightly.
- In a large bowl, blend the panko breadcrumbs, finely chopped garlic, egg, celery, onion powder, and a pinch of salt. Fold in the ground chicken and half of your cool Buffalo sauce until well incorporated.
- Using a cookie scoop, portion out the mixture and shape into 1-inch meatballs, placing them on your prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 15-17 minutes, or until the meatballs are lightly golden and cooked through.
- Toss cooked meatballs in the remaining Buffalo sauce to coat them thoroughly before serving.