These Buffalo Chicken Meatballs are a tasty mix of spicy and savory! Made with ground chicken and classic buffalo sauce, they pack a flavorful punch at every bite.
Served with a cool bleu cheese dip, it’s the perfect combo for game day or just a fun snack. Who could resist these little balls of joy? I always make extra because they’re just that good!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Chicken: This main ingredient gives your meatballs a lean option. If you want more fat and flavor, try using ground turkey or chicken thighs. Ground beef also works but gives a different flavor profile.
Breadcrumbs: Standard breadcrumbs help bind the meatballs. If gluten is a concern, use gluten-free breadcrumbs, crushed cornflakes, or almond flour as great alternatives.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a salty depth. You can substitute Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste, or skip cheese entirely for a dairy-free option.
Hot Sauce: Frank’s RedHot is popular and delivers authentic buffalo flavor. For less heat, use a milder sauce or even barbecue sauce for a twist.
Bleu Cheese: This dip is tangy and creamy. If you prefer something milder, use feta cheese or ranch dressing instead, catering to different tastes.
How Can I Ensure My Meatballs Stay Moist and Delicious?
A common challenge is keeping meatballs moist while baking. Here are some helpful tips to achieve tender meatballs:
- Incorporate breadcrumbs and egg to add moisture. Don’t skip these ingredients!
- Avoid overmixing the meat mixture, which can lead to tough meatballs. Just mix until combined.
- Using ground chicken, which is lean, means watching bake time closely. Check for doneness, but don’t overbake them, as that can dry them out.
Remember, using a thermometer to check if they reach 165°F will help ensure they’re safe yet still tender and juicy!
Buffalo Chicken Meatballs With Bleu Cheese Dip
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt
For The Buffalo Sauce:
- 1/2 cup hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce (optional)
For The Bleu Cheese Dip:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup crumbled bleu cheese, plus more for garnish
- 1 tbsp lemon juice or white vinegar
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes in total. You’ll need about 10 minutes for prep and then another 15-18 minutes for baking. Plus, a few minutes to whip up your bleu cheese dip while the meatballs cook. Easy and quick!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or give it a light grease to prevent sticking.
2. Make the Meatball Mixture:
In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, chopped green onions, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything gently until it’s well combined, but avoid overmixing to keep the meatballs tender.
3. Forming the Meatballs:
Using your hands or a spoon, shape the chicken mixture into meatballs about 1 to 1.5 inches in size. Place them evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet so they have room to cook.
4. Bake the Meatballs:
Put your baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the meatballs for about 15-18 minutes, or until they’re cooked through and slightly golden on the outside. You can check one for doneness if needed.
5. Prepare the Buffalo Sauce:
While the meatballs are baking, grab a small saucepan and combine the hot sauce, butter, and Worcestershire sauce over medium heat. Stir until the butter has melted and the sauce is smooth. Turn off the heat and set it aside.
6. Whip Up the Bleu Cheese Dip:
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, crumbled bleu cheese, lemon juice or vinegar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as you like. Once mixed, cover it and chill in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.
7. Coat the Meatballs:
When the meatballs are fully cooked, transfer them to a large bowl and pour the warm buffalo sauce over them. Gently toss until all the meatballs are evenly coated in that delicious sauce.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Place your tasty buffalo chicken meatballs on a serving plate. You can either drizzle some bleu cheese dip on top or serve it on the side for dipping. Don’t forget to garnish with extra chopped green onions and crumbled bleu cheese for an added touch.
9. Add Your Crunch:
These meatballs pair wonderfully with some crisp carrot sticks or celery sticks. Serve them alongside for a healthy crunch!
Enjoy your spicy, juicy buffalo meatballs paired with a cool, creamy bleu cheese dip – it’s a hit every time!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey can be used as a substitute for ground chicken and may even add extra flavor. Just be mindful that turkey can be slightly drier, so consider adding an extra tablespoon of butter or oil to keep the meatballs moist.
What If I Don’t Have Bleu Cheese?
No worries! If bleu cheese isn’t your thing, you can use feta cheese for a different flavor or even ranch dressing for a creamy dip that complements the meatballs nicely.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover meatballs and dip in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to enjoy, reheat meatballs in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, and give the dip a quick stir before serving.
Can I Make These Meatballs Ahead of Time?
Definitely! You can prepare the meatballs ahead and freeze them before baking. Just shape them and place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. After freezing, transfer them to a freezer bag. When you’re ready, bake straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.