Buffalo Chicken Meatballs: A Spicy Twist on a Classic Favorite

Buffalo Chicken Meatballs are a delightful twist on the classic buffalo chicken wings that we all know and love. As a fan of bold flavors, I find that these meatballs pack a punch with their spicy, tangy sauce, making them a perfect appetizer or main dish for any gathering. Originating from Buffalo, New York, the buffalo chicken flavor has become a staple in American cuisine, celebrated for its ability to bring people together over delicious food.

What I adore about Buffalo Chicken Meatballs is their incredible taste and texture. The juicy, tender meatballs are enveloped in a rich buffalo sauce that creates a mouthwatering experience with every bite. Plus, they are incredibly convenient to make, allowing you to whip up a batch in no time, whether for game day or a cozy family dinner. It’s no wonder that people love this dish; it combines the comfort of home-cooked meals with the excitement of bold flavors. Join me as we dive into this scrumptious recipe that is sure to become a favorite in your household!

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground chicken
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions
• 1/4 cup hot sauce (like Frank’s RedHot or your favorite brand)
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup ranch dressing (for serving)
• Fresh celery sticks (for serving)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Preparing the Meatball Mixture

Let’s get started on these delicious Buffalo Chicken Meatballs! First, we need to prepare the meatball mixture. This is where all the flavors come together.

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, and grated Parmesan cheese. I love using panko breadcrumbs because they give the meatballs a nice crunch.
2. Add the finely chopped green onions to the bowl. They add a fresh flavor that complements the spiciness of the hot sauce.
3. Next, pour in the hot sauce. You can adjust the amount based on how spicy you want your meatballs to be. I usually go for 1/4 cup, but feel free to add more if you like it hot!
4. Crack the large egg into the mixture. This will help bind everything together.
5. Now, sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. These spices will enhance the flavor of the meatballs.
6. Using your hands (I find this is the best way), mix everything together until well combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatballs tough.

Shaping the Meatballs

Once the mixture is ready, it’s time to shape the meatballs. This is the fun part!

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure that the meatballs cook evenly and get a nice golden color.
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
3. Using your hands, scoop out about 1.5 tablespoons of the meatball mixture and roll it into a ball. Place it on the prepared baking sheet. Repeat this process until all the mixture is used up. You should get about 20-24 meatballs, depending on the size.
4. Make sure to leave some space between each meatball on the baking sheet to allow for even cooking.

Cooking the Meatballs

Now that our meatballs are shaped, it’s time to cook them to perfection!

1. Once the oven is preheated, place the baking sheet in the oven and bake the meatballs for 20-25 minutes. You want them to be cooked through and slightly browned on the outside.
2. To check if they are done, you can use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
3. If you want to add an extra layer of flavor, you can brush the meatballs with a little more hot sauce during the last 5 minutes of baking.

Preparing the Sauce (Optional)

If you want to take your Buffalo Chicken Meatballs to the next level, you can prepare a simple sauce to toss them in after baking.

1. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine 1/4 cup of hot sauce and 2 tablespoons of melted butter. Stir until the butter is fully melted and the sauce is well combined.
2. Once the meatballs are done baking, transfer them to a large mixing bowl.
3. Pour the hot sauce mixture over the meatballs and gently toss to coat them evenly. This step is optional, but it adds a delicious glaze that enhances the flavor.

Assembling and Serving

Now that everything is

Conclusion:

In summary, these Buffalo Chicken Meatballs are an absolute must-try for anyone looking to spice up their meal routine. The combination of tender chicken, zesty buffalo sauce, and a hint of blue cheese creates a flavor explosion that is sure to impress your family and friends. Whether you serve them as a game day snack, a party appetizer, or a main dish alongside a fresh salad, these meatballs are versatile enough to fit any occasion. For a fun twist, consider trying different variations by swapping out the chicken for turkey or even a plant-based alternative for a lighter option. You can also experiment with different sauces, like a honey garlic glaze or a spicy sriracha mix, to cater to your taste preferences. Pair these meatballs with crunchy celery sticks and a side of creamy ranch or blue cheese dressing for the ultimate experience. I encourage you to give this recipe a try and make it your own! Once you’ve whipped up a batch of these Buffalo Chicken Meatballs, I’d love to hear about your experience. Share your thoughts, any variations you tried, or even a photo of your delicious creation. Let’s spread the love for this mouthwatering dish together!

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