Buffalo Chicken Meatballs are a fun, flavorful twist on classic meatballs, with plenty of spicy, savory goodness in every bite. Tender ground chicken is mixed with simple seasonings, then baked or cooked until juicy and golden before being tossed in a tangy Buffalo sauce. A little ranch or blue cheese dressing on the side adds the perfect cool and creamy contrast to the heat.
I love making these meatballs when I want something easy that everyone can grab and enjoy. They’re great for a quick dinner, game-day snack, party appetizer, or casual family meal. They come together with simple ingredients and don’t take much time, making them a delicious option whenever you’re craving something hearty with a little kick.
Table of Contents
Buffalo Chicken Meatballs Ingredients
For the Chicken Meatballs
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1/2 cup plain breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped green onion
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
For the Buffalo Sauce
- 1/2 cup Buffalo hot sauce
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
How to Make Buffalo Chicken Meatballs
Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a large bowl, add the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, green onion, parsley, salt, black pepper, onion powder, and paprika. Gently mix everything together until the ingredients are evenly combined, but do not overmix because this can make the meatballs firm instead of tender.
Step 2: Shape the Meatballs
Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to take equal portions of the chicken mixture, then gently roll each portion between your hands to form small, round meatballs. Place the meatballs on the prepared baking sheet with a little space between each one, making sure they are similar in size so they cook evenly.
Step 3: Cook the Meatballs
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the meatballs for about 18–22 minutes, or until they are cooked through and lightly golden on the outside. Check the center with a meat thermometer to make sure the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) before removing the meatballs from the oven.
Step 4: Make the Buffalo Sauce
While the meatballs are baking, add the Buffalo hot sauce, melted butter, honey, and garlic powder to a small saucepan. Warm the mixture over low heat and whisk gently until the butter is completely blended into the sauce. Keep the sauce warm, but do not let it boil.
Step 5: Coat the Meatballs
When the meatballs are fully cooked, carefully transfer them to a large bowl and pour the warm Buffalo sauce over them. Gently toss the meatballs until each one is evenly coated with the sauce, making sure the spicy and buttery flavor covers the entire outside.
Step 6: Serve
Transfer the coated Buffalo Chicken Meatballs to a serving plate and sprinkle them with chopped green onions or fresh parsley if desired. Serve them warm with ranch dressing or blue cheese dressing on the side, along with celery sticks or carrot sticks for a fresh and crunchy addition.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make – Simple ingredients and easy steps make this recipe beginner-friendly.
- Packed with Flavor – Buffalo sauce, garlic, and seasonings make every bite delicious.
- Tender Chicken – The meatballs are soft, juicy, and full of flavor.
- Great for Parties – They make a perfect appetizer for gatherings and game days.
Tips and Shortcuts
- Don’t Overmix – Mix gently to keep the meatballs soft and tender.
- Choose Mild Sauce – Use mild Buffalo sauce if you prefer less heat.
- Wet Your Hands – Slightly wet hands make shaping the meatballs easier.
- Use Parchment Paper – It prevents sticking and makes cleanup simple.
What to Serve with Buffalo Chicken Meatballs
These buffalo chicken meatballs are a flavorful appetizer or easy dinner option that’s perfect for sharing. I like serving them with celery sticks, a creamy ranch dip, or a fresh green salad, and they pair wonderfully with Lemonade, or Smoothie.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these in an air fryer ?
Yes, you can cook the meatballs in an air fryer until they reach 165°F (74°C) in the center.
Can I add cheese to the meatball mixture ?
Yes, a little grated Parmesan cheese can add extra flavor to the meatballs.
Can I use frozen ground chicken ?
Yes, but thaw it completely in the refrigerator before mixing and shaping the meatballs.
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground chicken ?
Yes, ground turkey works well and can be used in the same amount.
How to Store Leftovers
Refrigerator Storage
Let the Buffalo Chicken Meatballs cool slightly, then place them in an airtight container. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Reheat them in the microwave, oven, or air fryer until heated through.
Freezer Storage
Allow the cooked meatballs to cool completely before placing them in a freezer-safe container or bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and reheat until hot before serving.
Buffalo Chicken Meatballs
Course: Appetizers, Main DishCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy4
servings15
minutes20
minutes280
kcal35
minutesThese Buffalo Chicken Meatballs are tender, flavorful, and easy to make. They are baked until cooked through, then coated in a spicy and buttery Buffalo sauce. Serve them with ranch or blue cheese dressing for a tasty appetizer or easy meal.
Ingredients
1 pound ground chicken
1/2 cup plain breadcrumbs
1 large egg
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons finely chopped green onion
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/2 cup Buffalo hot sauce
3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
1 tablespoon honey
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Directions
- Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture ,Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a large bowl, add the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, green onion, parsley, salt, black pepper, onion powder, and paprika. Gently mix everything together until the ingredients are evenly combined, but do not overmix because this can make the meatballs firm instead of tender.
- Step 2: Shape the Meatballs ,Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to take equal portions of the chicken mixture, then gently roll each portion between your hands to form small, round meatballs. Place the meatballs on the prepared baking sheet with a little space between each one, making sure they are similar in size so they cook evenly.
- Step 3: Cook the Meatballs ,Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the meatballs for about 18–22 minutes, or until they are cooked through and lightly golden on the outside. Check the center with a meat thermometer to make sure the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) before removing the meatballs from the oven.
- Step 4: Make the Buffalo Sauce ,While the meatballs are baking, add the Buffalo hot sauce, melted butter, honey, and garlic powder to a small saucepan. Warm the mixture over low heat and whisk gently until the butter is completely blended into the sauce. Keep the sauce warm, but do not let it boil.
- Step 5: Coat the Meatballs ,When the meatballs are fully cooked, carefully transfer them to a large bowl and pour the warm Buffalo sauce over them. Gently toss the meatballs until each one is evenly coated with the sauce, making sure the spicy and buttery flavor covers the entire outside.
- Step 6: Serve ,Transfer the coated Buffalo Chicken Meatballs to a serving plate and sprinkle them with chopped green onions or fresh parsley if desired. Serve them warm with ranch dressing or blue cheese dressing on the side, along with celery sticks or carrot sticks for a fresh and crunchy addition.
Notes
- Do not overmix the meatball mixture.
- Add extra honey if you prefer a sweeter sauce.
- Lightly wet your hands before shaping the meatballs.
- Add Parmesan for extra flavor.
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