Delicious Buffalo Chicken Meatballs Recipe

Introduction

Buffalo chicken meatballs are a delicious twist on traditional buffalo wings, combining the spicy and tangy flavors of buffalo sauce with juicy chicken meatballs. These meatballs are perfect as an appetizer for parties, game day snacks, or a hearty meal paired with your favorite sides. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also allows for plenty of variations to accommodate different tastes and dietary preferences. Lets dive into this mouthwatering recipe thats guaranteed to impress your guests and satisfy your cravings!

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Ingredients

To create these flavorful buffalo chicken meatballs, gather the following ingredients:

For the Meatballs:
1 pound ground chicken
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup finely chopped green onions (scallions)
1 large egg
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Buffalo Sauce:
1/2 cup hot sauce (Franks RedHot is a popular choice)
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon honey (optional, for sweetness)

Equipment

Before you start, make sure you have the following equipment on hand:

Large mixing bowl
Baking sheet
Parchment paper (optional, for easier cleanup)
Oven or air fryer
Medium saucepan
Cooking spray or olive oil (for greasing)
Meat thermometer (optional, for checking meatball doneness)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). If youre using an air fryer, set it to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that your meatballs cook evenly and develop a nice crispy exterior.

Step 2: Prepare the Meatball Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped green onions, egg, minced garlic, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined. Use your hands or a spatula to ensure an even distribution of ingredients.

Step 3: Shape the Meatballs

Using your hands, shape the mixture into meatballs about 1 inch in diameter. Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easier cleanup. Make sure to leave some space between each meatball to allow for even cooking.

Step 4: Bake the Meatballs

Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes or until they are cooked through and have an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). If using an air fryer, cook for about 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even cooking.

Step 5: Prepare the Buffalo Sauce

While the meatballs are baking, prepare the buffalo sauce. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the hot sauce, melted butter, apple cider vinegar, and honey (if using). Stir until well combined and heated through, allowing it to simmer for 2-3 minutes.

Step 6: Toss Meatballs in Sauce

Once the meatballs are finished baking, remove them from the oven and place them in the saucepan with the buffalo sauce. Gently toss the meatballs in the sauce until they are fully coated. Return the sauced meatballs to the baking sheet for a couple of minutes to allow the sauce to set.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Your buffalo chicken meatballs are now ready to serve! Transfer them to a serving platter, optionally garnishing with extra chopped green onions or chopped parsley. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ranch or blue cheese dressing.

Variations

There are many ways to customize your buffalo chicken meatballs! Here are a few variations to consider:

Different Meats: Substitute ground turkey or even ground beef for a different flavor profile.
Cauliflower Meatballs: For a lighter, low-carb option, try substituting half of the chicken with finely grated cauliflower or use chickpeas for a vegetarian version.
Spicy Variation: Add chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the meatball mixture for an extra kick.
Cheesy Version: Add small cubes of mozzarella cheese inside each meatball for a cheesy surprise when you bite into them.

Storage

If you have any leftovers (which is unlikely, given how delicious these meatballs are!), you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the cooked meatballs if you wish—simply let them cool completely, then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They will keep for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake from frozen at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave in short intervals until warm.

Serving Suggestions

Buffalo chicken meatballs are incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways:

As an Appetizer: Serve with celery sticks and dipping sauces for a classic buffalo wing experience.
On a Bun: Turn them into sliders by serving on small buns with lettuce, tomato, and your favorite dressing.
In a Salad: Add them to a fresh salad with mixed greens, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and a drizzle of ranch or blue cheese dressing.
With Pasta: Toss them with cooked pasta and a bit of buffalo sauce for a comforting meal.

Conclusion

Buffalo chicken meatballs are a fun and delicious way to enjoy the classic flavors of buffalo wings in a new form. Easy to prepare and customizable to your taste, these meatballs are sure to become a favorite for gatherings, parties, or even casual dinners at home. Try them out today and savor the bold flavors that they bring to your table!