Buffalo Chicken Meatballs are the perfect game-day snack—spicy, juicy, and packed with flavor. Combining tender ground chicken with zesty buffalo sauce, these bite-sized delights are baked until golden, then coated in a tangy, buttery glaze.

FULL RECIPE

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450 g) ground chicken
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plain or panko)
• 1/4 cup finely chopped celery
• 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup buffalo sauce (plus extra for coating)
• 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese (optional)
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter (for sauce coating)
• Extra blue cheese or ranch dressing, for serving

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, celery, green onions, egg, garlic, 1/4 cup buffalo sauce, blue cheese (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined but do not overmix.
3. Using your hands or a small scoop, form the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Bake for 18–20 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
5. While the meatballs are baking, melt butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir in additional buffalo sauce to taste, creating a smooth coating sauce.
6. Once baked, transfer meatballs to a large bowl and pour the buffalo butter sauce over them, tossing gently to coat evenly.
7. Serve immediately with blue cheese or ranch dressing for dipping.

Nutrition Facts

• Calories: 210
• Protein: 17 g
• Carbohydrates: 6 g
• Dietary Fiber: 0.5 g
• Total Sugars: 0 g
• Total Fat: 13 g
• Saturated Fat: 5 g
• Cholesterol: 95 mg
• Sodium: 680 mg
• Potassium: 320 mg

Flavor Profile of Buffalo Chicken Meatballs

Buffalo Chicken Meatballs deliver a bold, tangy, and spicy flavor that instantly wakes up the taste buds. The combination of tender ground chicken and zesty buffalo sauce creates a mouthwatering balance between heat and savory richness. The buttery glaze smooths out the spiciness, offering a creamy undertone that makes each bite satisfying. For those who enjoy layered flavors, adding blue cheese crumbles brings a sharp, salty note that perfectly complements the tangy sauce. This harmony of tastes is what makes these meatballs a standout dish for gatherings and parties.

Nutritional Value and Health Considerations

While Buffalo Chicken Meatballs are an indulgent treat, they can also be a lighter alternative to traditional fried buffalo wings. Using lean ground chicken reduces saturated fat while still providing high-quality protein essential for muscle repair and energy. Baking instead of frying keeps the calorie count lower and eliminates excess oil. The addition of vegetables like celery and green onions adds fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants. To make them even healthier, one could opt for whole wheat breadcrumbs or oat flour as a binder. For those watching sodium intake, a reduced-sodium buffalo sauce can help keep the dish within dietary limits without sacrificing flavor.

Creative Variations to Try

One of the best things about Buffalo Chicken Meatballs is how versatile they can be. For a milder version, replace buffalo sauce with a sweet chili glaze or honey mustard. Cheese lovers can stuff the center of each meatball with a cube of cheddar or mozzarella for a gooey surprise. Those seeking an extra kick might mix finely chopped jalapeños or cayenne pepper into the meat mixture. For a keto-friendly option, swap breadcrumbs for almond flour and serve the meatballs over zucchini noodles. Even vegetarians can enjoy a plant-based twist by using ground chickpeas or lentils with buffalo seasoning.

Serving Suggestions for Maximum Enjoyment

Buffalo Chicken Meatballs can be served in countless creative ways to suit different occasions. On game day, they’re perfect skewered with toothpicks and arranged on a large platter alongside dipping sauces. For a hearty meal, they can be served over rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes to soak up the tangy sauce. In sandwiches or sliders, they make an irresistible filling paired with crisp lettuce and ranch dressing. For a healthier presentation, they can be served atop a bed of mixed greens with crumbled blue cheese and a drizzle of extra buffalo sauce for a spicy salad twist.

Perfect Pairings for a Complete Meal

Pairing Buffalo Chicken Meatballs with the right sides and drinks can elevate the entire dining experience. Crisp celery and carrot sticks provide a refreshing crunch and balance the spiciness. A creamy potato salad or coleslaw complements the heat while adding richness. For beverages, a cold lager or wheat beer is a classic match, cutting through the spice and refreshing the palate. Non-alcoholic options like iced tea or lemonade also pair wonderfully, especially for a family-friendly setting. A side of garlic bread or cornbread can round out the meal, soaking up every drop of flavorful sauce.

Tips for Making Meatballs Extra Tender

Achieving perfectly tender Buffalo Chicken Meatballs comes down to mixing and cooking techniques. Overmixing the meat can lead to a dense texture, so it’s important to combine ingredients gently until just incorporated. Adding a small amount of milk or chicken broth to the mixture helps maintain moisture during baking. Using a light touch when forming the meatballs and avoiding packing them too tightly will keep them airy. Baking at a high enough temperature ensures they cook quickly without drying out, and tossing them in sauce immediately after baking locks in juiciness.

Buffalo Chicken Meatballs for Special Diets

These meatballs can be adapted to fit various dietary needs. For a gluten-free version, simply replace traditional breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives or crushed rice crackers. Those following a low-carb or keto diet can use almond flour and pair the meatballs with cauliflower rice instead of starchy sides. Dairy-free eaters can skip the blue cheese and use a vegan butter substitute for the sauce. Even for paleo diets, the recipe can be modified with natural seasonings, almond flour, and a clean buffalo sauce free from processed additives.

Storage and Reheating Guidelines

Buffalo Chicken Meatballs store well, making them ideal for meal prep or leftovers. Once cooled, they can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. For longer storage, freezing is an excellent option—place the cooled meatballs on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. When reheating, the oven or air fryer is best for maintaining texture, though the microwave works for quick heating. If reheating from frozen, allow them to thaw in the refrigerator overnight for even warming.

Making Ahead for Parties and Events

Preparing Buffalo Chicken Meatballs in advance can save valuable time on busy days. The meatball mixture can be shaped and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Alternatively, fully cooked meatballs can be made a day ahead and simply reheated with sauce before serving. For parties, keeping them warm in a slow cooker set to low ensures guests can enjoy them throughout the event without them drying out. This make-ahead convenience makes them a reliable choice for game day spreads, potlucks, and family gatherings.

Conclusion

Buffalo Chicken Meatballs are more than just a tasty snack they’re a versatile, flavorful, and adaptable dish that fits seamlessly into countless occasions. From game day parties to family dinners, they offer a healthier alternative to traditional fried options without sacrificing the bold buffalo flavor people love. With endless variation possibilities, they can be customized for different tastes and dietary needs, ensuring everyone at the table finds something to enjoy.