Looking for a crowd-pleasing snack? Try this easy buffalo chicken meatballs recipe made with homemade meatballs, buffalo sauce and baked to perfection for a quick weeknight dinner or family favorite game day snack, Save for later

Easy Buffalo Chicken Meatballs Recipe for Game Day Snacks

Introduction

Are you ready to score big with your friends and family on game day? Look no further than these easy buffalo chicken meatballs, the perfect snack to elevate your viewing party to the next level. Made with everyday ingredients, these bite-sized morsels are packed with flavor, easy to make, and offer a creative twist on traditional buffalo wings. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a culinary newbie, this recipe is sure to become a touchdown in your household.

Why This Works

• Flavor balance and ingredient accessibility: This recipe combines the spicy kick of buffalo sauce with the richness of chicken and the comfort of meatballs, all using ingredients you likely have on hand.
• Ease of preparation: With a simple mix-and-bake method, you can have these meatballs ready in no time, leaving you more time to enjoy the game.
• Impressive results with minimal effort: Despite their ease, these meatballs are sure to impress your guests with their bold flavors and tender texture, making them perfect for a crowd.

Key Ingredients

The star of the show is, of course, the chicken. You’ll need 1 pound of ground chicken, which you can find in most supermarkets. To add some moisture and flavor, we’re using 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and 1/4 cup of chopped green onions. For the buffalo kick, we’re relying on 1/4 cup of buffalo wing sauce, which you can adjust to taste. Other key ingredients include 1 egg, 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs, and 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Feel free to substitute the cheddar with another cheese of your choice, and if you can’t find buffalo wing sauce, you can make your own by mixing hot sauce and butter.

Instructions

1. Step 1: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While that’s heating up, mix the ground chicken, shredded cheese, chopped green onions, egg, and breadcrumbs in a large bowl until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
2. Step 2: Use your hands to shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches (3.8 cm) in diameter. You should end up with around 20-25 meatballs. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving a little space between each to allow for even cooking.
3. Step 3: Drizzle the meatballs with olive oil and gently roll them to coat evenly. Then, bake them in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
4. Step 4: While the meatballs are baking, prepare the buffalo sauce by mixing the buffalo wing sauce with 2 tablespoons of melted butter in a small bowl. Once the meatballs are done, remove them from the oven and toss them in the buffalo sauce until they’re fully coated. Return them to the baking sheet and bake for an additional 2-3 minutes to melt the sauce and adhere it to the meatballs.

Handy Tips

• Make sure to not overmix the meatball mixture, as this can lead to dense meatballs. Mix just until the ingredients come together in a cohesive mass.
• If you find the mixture too wet, you can add a bit more breadcrumbs. If it’s too dry, a little more egg will help bind it together.
• For an extra crispy exterior, you can broil the meatballs for 1-2 minutes after tossing them in the buffalo sauce. Keep a close eye to avoid burning.

Heat Control

When baking the meatballs, ensure your oven is at the correct temperature, as this will affect the cooking time and the final texture of the meatballs. For the buffalo sauce, melting the butter before mixing it with the hot sauce helps to create a smooth, even coating for the meatballs.

Crunch Factor

To achieve a nice crunch on the outside while keeping the inside tender, make sure to not overbake the meatballs. The initial 15-20 minutes should cook them through without drying them out. The additional 2-3 minutes after applying the buffalo sauce will help caramelize the sauce slightly, adding a deeper flavor and a bit of crunch to the exterior.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• For easier cleanup, line your baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat before baking the meatballs.
• Consider making the meatballs ahead of time and freezing them before baking. Simply thaw and bake as instructed when you’re ready.
• To keep the meatballs warm for a longer period, such as during a game, place them in a slow cooker on the low setting after baking. This will keep them at a safe temperature and ready to serve.

Storage Tips

• Leftover meatballs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
• For longer storage, consider freezing the cooked meatballs. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months. Reheat frozen meatballs in the oven or microwave.
• When reheating, make sure the meatballs reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure food safety.

Gift Packaging Ideas

If you’re considering gifting these buffalo chicken meatballs, perhaps for a host or as a party favor, you can package them in decorative jars or containers. Fill the jar with the meatballs, add some celery sticks and blue cheese crumbles on top, and finish with a ribbon around the lid. Alternatively, wrap them in decorative paper or aluminum foil and place them in a gift basket filled with other snacks and dips.

Flavor Variations

• 🌟 Different spices: Experiment with various spice blends, such as Italian seasoning or fajita seasoning, to give the meatballs a unique flavor profile.
• 🌟 Creative toppings: Serve the meatballs with a variety of toppings, such as diced onions, sour cream, or additional shredded cheese, to let everyone customize their snack.
• 🌟 Ingredient swaps: Replace the chicken with ground turkey or beef for a different twist, or use vegan alternatives like tofu or tempeh for a plant-based version.

Troubleshooting

• Texture problems: If your meatballs turn out too dense, it may be due to overmixing. If they’re too loose, you might need a bit more breadcrumbs or egg to bind them better.
• Ingredient replacements: If you can’t find a specific ingredient, don’t be afraid to substitute with something similar. Just remember, substitutions can affect the final flavor and texture.
• Over/undercooking signs: Meatballs are cooked through when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). If they’re undercooked, they might feel soft to the touch; if overcooked, they’ll be dry and hard.

FAQs

• Can I freeze it? Yes, you can freeze the meatballs before or after baking. Follow the storage tips for detailed instructions.
• Is it gluten-free? The recipe as given contains breadcrumbs, which typically contain gluten. However, you can easily make it gluten-free by substituting the breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives.
• Can I double the recipe? Absolutely! Simply double all the ingredients and proceed with the instructions. Keep in mind that baking time might be slightly longer for a larger batch, so keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.

Conclusion

With these easy buffalo chicken meatballs, you’re well on your way to becoming the MVP of your game day gathering. They’re easy to make, packed with flavor, and offer a fun twist on traditional snacks. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavors and toppings to make the recipe your own, and enjoy the cheers of your friends and family as you serve up these delicious bites. Happy cooking, and let’s play ball!