Are you ready to fire up your dinner? My Crispy Buffalo Chicken Meatballs are the perfect mix of flavor and fun. This easy recipe brings all the spicy goodness without the hassle. Whether you’re planning a party or just want a quick meal, these meatballs will take center stage. Let’s dive into the tasty details and get you cooking some mouthwatering bites!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
To make crispy buffalo chicken meatballs, you’ll need these simple ingredients:
– 1 pound ground chicken
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 large egg
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup buffalo sauce (plus extra for tossing)
– 1/4 cup blue cheese crumbles for topping (optional)
– Fresh celery sticks for serving
Serving Size
This recipe makes about 20 meatballs. It serves 4 people. Each person can enjoy 5 meatballs.
Nutritional Information
Each serving has roughly:
– Calories: 350
– Protein: 30g
– Fat: 18g
– Carbohydrates: 20g
– Fiber: 1g
– Sodium: 800mg
This dish packs flavor while keeping the balance of protein and carbs. Enjoy these tasty meatballs as a snack or a meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepping the Oven and Baking Sheet
First, set your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature helps the meatballs get crispy. Next, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This makes cleaning up much easier later.
Mixing and Forming the Meatballs
In a bowl, mix the following ingredients:
– 1 pound ground chicken
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 large egg
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Stir everything well until it all blends together. Now, use your hands to form meatballs. Make them about 1 to 1.5 inches wide. You should get around 20 meatballs.
Baking the Meatballs
Place the meatballs on the lined baking sheet. Make sure to space them out. This helps them cook evenly. Bake for 20-25 minutes. They should turn golden brown and be fully cooked.
After baking, move the meatballs to a bowl. Pour extra buffalo sauce over them and toss gently to coat. Enjoy these crispy buffalo chicken meatballs warm!
Tips & Tricks
Achieving the Perfect Texture
To get crispy meatballs, use breadcrumbs. They help hold the meatballs together. I like to add grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor. Make sure to mix the ingredients well. This helps keep the meatballs moist inside.
Ensuring Even Cooking
Space the meatballs on the baking sheet. This allows hot air to flow around them. If they touch, they may not cook evenly. I like to flip them halfway through baking. This gives them a nice, golden color on all sides.
Tips for Storing Leftovers
Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container. They will stay fresh in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. This keeps them crispy. You can also freeze them for longer storage. Just make sure to separate them with parchment paper before freezing.

Variations
Spicy vs. Mild Buffalo Sauce Options
You can choose between spicy or mild buffalo sauce for your meatballs. If you like heat, go for the spicy sauce. It gives the meatballs a nice kick. If you prefer a milder taste, choose the mild version. You can even mix both sauces. This way, you can adjust the heat level to fit your taste. Feel free to experiment until you find your favorite blend.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can easily swap some ingredients based on what you have at home. For the ground chicken, you can use ground turkey. It works well and is lighter. If you don’t have breadcrumbs, crushed crackers or oats can be good substitutes. You can also use any cheese you like instead of Parmesan. Finally, if you want a dairy-free option, leave out the blue cheese crumbles.
Cooking Methods (Air Frying, etc.)
You can cook these meatballs in different ways. Baking is easy, but you can also use an air fryer. If you want crispy meatballs, air frying is the way to go. Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and cook for about 12-15 minutes. You’ll get a lovely crunch while keeping them juicy inside. Another option is to pan-fry them in a skillet for a golden crust. Just remember to cook them thoroughly.
Serving Suggestions
Pairing with Dipping Sauces
These meatballs shine when served with the right dips. Try blue cheese dressing for a classic touch. Ranch dressing also works well for those who prefer a milder flavor. You can even mix buffalo sauce with sour cream for a creamy kick. Just set out small bowls for guests to dip away!
Side Dish Ideas
Pair your meatballs with crunchy celery sticks. They add a fresh bite and balance the spice. You could also serve them with carrot sticks for a colorful plate. For a heartier side, try a simple garden salad or loaded nachos. These options will complement the flavors and make your meal more fun!
Presentation Tips
Presentation adds to the meal’s enjoyment. Arrange the meatballs on a large platter. Drizzle some extra buffalo sauce over them for a pop of color. Scatter blue cheese crumbles on top for a fancy touch. Don’t forget to add the celery sticks around the meatballs for a vibrant look!
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?
Yes, you can use ground turkey. It works well and gives a lighter flavor. Both meats are similar in texture and cook time. If you choose turkey, keep the seasoning the same. This helps maintain the same great taste.
How do I make meatballs without eggs?
You can use a few options to replace eggs. Try using 1/4 cup of applesauce or mashed banana. You can also use ground flaxseed mixed with water. To do this, mix 1 tablespoon of flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of water and let it sit for a few minutes. This mix helps bind your meatballs.
What is the best way to reheat leftover meatballs?
The best way to reheat meatballs is in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the meatballs on a baking sheet. Heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until hot. You can also microwave them for a quick option. Just place them on a plate and heat for 1-2 minutes, covered with a damp paper towel.
This blog post covered all you need to know about making tasty meatballs. We looked at ingredients, cooking steps, and some helpful tips. You learned about variations and ways to serve them for the best flavor.
Cooking can be fun and easy with the right guide. Enjoy making and sharing your meatballs with friends and family!


