Buffalo Chicken Meatballs Recipe

I’m so excited you’re here — because these Buffalo Chicken Meatballs are the perfect combo of spicy, saucy, and satisfying! Whether you’re prepping game-day snacks, looking for a fun weeknight dinner, or need a new party appetizer that everyone will rave about, this recipe brings all the flavor of your favorite wings, without the mess — and in tender, bite-sized form.

💌 Want more bold, crave-worthy recipes like this? Subscribe to my newsletter for quick, crowd-pleasing favorites sent straight to your inbox every week!

What Are Buffalo Chicken Meatballs?

Buffalo Chicken Meatballs are juicy ground chicken meatballs seasoned with classic wing flavors like garlic, onion, and paprika — then baked (or air-fried!) and tossed in a buttery buffalo sauce. They’re everything you love about buffalo wings — minus the bones, and way easier to make and eat.

Why You’ll Love These Meatballs

• High-protein and low-carb – A lighter take on traditional wings

• Great for meal prep or parties – Easy to make ahead

• Baked or air-fried – No greasy frying here!

• Customizable heat level – Make them mild or fiery!

• Delicious hot or cold – Perfect for lunches or snacks

What They Taste Like

They’re tender and juicy on the inside, coated in that signature tangy-spicy buffalo sauce on the outside. The flavor is bold, savory, and just spicy enough to make you reach for another. Serve them with a cool dip, and you’ve got a flavor explosion in every bite.

Benefits of This Recipe

• Better-for-you version of buffalo wings

• Easy to batch cook and freeze

• Can be made dairy-free and gluten-free

• Perfect for parties, game day, or weekday meal prep

Ingredients for Buffalo Chicken Meatballs

For the Meatballs:

• 1 lb ground chicken

• 1 egg

• ½ cup panko breadcrumbs (or almond flour for low-carb)

• 2 tablespoons finely chopped green onions

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon onion powder

• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

For the Buffalo Sauce:

• ⅓ cup buffalo-style hot sauce (like Frank’s RedHot)

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (or vegan butter)

• 1 teaspoon honey (optional, for balance)

• Dash of garlic powder (optional)

Tools You’ll Need

• Large mixing bowl

• Sheet pan or air fryer

• Parchment paper (if baking)

• Saucepan or microwave-safe bowl

• Small cookie scoop (for evenly-sized meatballs)

• Tongs or spoon for tossing in sauce

Ingredient Substitutions & Add-Ons

• No breadcrumbs? Use almond flour or crushed pork rinds for low-carb.

• Make them dairy-free: Use vegan butter in the sauce.

• Extra heat: Add a pinch of cayenne to the meat mixture or hot sauce.

• Make it cheesy: Mix in ¼ cup crumbled blue cheese or shredded cheddar.

• Serve with: Celery sticks, carrot ribbons, or over a bed of greens for a low-carb meal.

How to Make Buffalo Chicken Meatballs

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat & Prep

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

2. Mix the Meatball Mixture

In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, egg, breadcrumbs, green onions, and all seasonings. Mix gently with your hands or a spoon until just combined — don’t overmix.

3. Form the Meatballs

Scoop and roll the mixture into 1½-inch balls (about 18–20 meatballs). Place evenly on the prepared baking sheet.

4. Bake or Air Fry

• Bake: 18–20 minutes or until golden and cooked through (internal temp 165°F).

• Air Fry: Cook at 375°F for 10–12 minutes, shaking halfway through.

5. Make the Buffalo Sauce

In a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl, combine hot sauce, butter, and honey (if using). Heat until the butter is melted and everything is well combined.

6. Toss & Serve

Add the cooked meatballs to a large bowl, pour the buffalo sauce over, and toss to coat.

What to Serve With Buffalo Chicken Meatballs

These meatballs are crazy versatile. Serve them as:

• Appetizer: With toothpicks and a side of ranch or blue cheese dressing

• Dinner: Over rice, mashed cauliflower, or in lettuce wraps

• Party platter: With celery sticks, carrots, and a dip trio

• Buffalo bowl: Serve on quinoa or greens with avocado and ranch drizzle

• Slider-style: Tuck into mini buns with lettuce and dressing for buffalo sliders!

Tips for the Best Meatballs

• Use cold ingredients for easier rolling and firmer meatballs.

• Don’t overmix the meat — it keeps them tender.

• Chill the mixture for 10 minutes before shaping if it’s too sticky.

• Double the batch and freeze extras for future snacking!

Storage Instructions

• Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

• Freezer: Freeze cooked meatballs in a single layer, then transfer to a bag and store for up to 3 months.

• Reheat: Warm in the microwave, oven, or air fryer. Add fresh sauce if needed to revive the flavor.

General Info About Buffalo Chicken Meatballs

Buffalo chicken meatballs are a modern spin on buffalo wings — all the flavor, none of the fuss. Inspired by classic bar food, they’ve become a popular alternative for those looking for high-protein snacks, low-carb appetizers, or gluten-free party fare.

The base recipe is endlessly adaptable and makes it easy to bring that iconic spicy-tangy flavor into everyday meals in a healthier, bite-sized way.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make them ahead of time?

Yes! Make the meatballs and refrigerate raw or cooked up to 2 days ahead. Reheat and toss in sauce when ready to serve.

What’s the best buffalo sauce to use?

Frank’s RedHot is a classic, but any mild-to-medium buffalo sauce works well. Choose your heat level!

Can I use ground turkey instead?

Absolutely! Ground turkey works 1:1 for chicken — just use dark meat if possible for more moisture.

Are they spicy?

They can be! Control the heat by using a milder buffalo sauce or adding a little honey to balance the spice.

Conclusion

These Buffalo Chicken Meatballs are the kind of recipe you’ll make once and then crave forever. They’re spicy, juicy, perfectly poppable, and easy to make in big batches for weeknight meals or game-day spreads. Plus, they’re lighter and cleaner than traditional wings — without sacrificing a lick of flavor.

Serve them hot, cold, in a wrap, or on their own — just don’t forget the ranch or blue cheese dip!

Show Me Your Meatballs!

Made this recipe? I need to see it!
📸 Share your buffalo creations on Pinterest and leave a review — your photos and feedback bring this recipe to life for others.

Nutritional Info (Per 3 Meatballs)

• Calories: 210

• Protein: 20g

• Fat: 12g

• Carbs: 6g

• Fiber: 0g

• Sugar: 1g

Print