If you love the bold flavor of buffalo wings, these Buffalo Chicken Meatballs are about to become your new favorite! Juicy ground chicken is mixed with ranch seasoning, cheese, and buffalo sauce, then cooked to perfection and coated in even more spicy goodness.
Perfect as an appetizer, party snack, or even a main dish, these meatballs bring that classic buffalo kick in a fun, bite-sized form.
💛 Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Packed with buffalo wing flavor
- Perfect balance of spicy, savory, and cheesy
- Great for parties or meal prep
- Can be pan-fried or baked
- Freezer-friendly
🛒 Ingredients
For the Meatballs
- 2 pounds ground chicken
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 3 tablespoons dry ranch seasoning
- ½ cup buffalo sauce (divided)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon canola oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
Optional Toppings
- Blue cheese crumbles
- Ranch dressing
- Green onions
👩🍳 Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Mixture
In a large bowl, combine:
- Ground chicken
- Panko
- Eggs
- Cheddar cheese
- Ranch seasoning
- ¼ cup buffalo sauce
- Garlic powder
Mix gently until just combined (don’t overmix).
Step 2: Form the Meatballs
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Lightly grease your hands, then shape the mixture into tablespoon-sized meatballs and place them on the sheet.
Step 3: Cook the Meatballs
In a large skillet over medium heat, add oil and butter.
Cook the meatballs in batches (don’t overcrowd), turning occasionally until browned and cooked through (internal temp: 165°F / 74°C).
Step 4: Coat with Sauce
Return all meatballs to the pan and toss with the remaining buffalo sauce until fully coated.
Step 5: Serve
Top with blue cheese crumbles, ranch dressing, and green onions if desired.
Serve warm and enjoy!
🔄 Oven Method (Alternative)
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C)
- Place meatballs on a lined baking sheet
- Bake for 25 minutes, or until fully cooked
🍽️ Serving Ideas
- Serve as a party appetizer with toothpicks
- Pair with celery and carrot sticks
- Add to sliders or sandwiches
- Serve over rice or salad for a full meal
- Wrap in lettuce for a low-carb option
🧊 Storage & Freezing
- Fridge: Store up to 3–4 days in an airtight container
- Freezer: Freeze cooked meatballs up to 3 months
- Reheat: Oven, stovetop, or microwave
Make-Ahead Tip
Form the meatballs and refrigerate up to 24 hours before cooking.
❓ FAQs
Can I use another meat?
Yes! Ground turkey or beef works well.
Are they very spicy?
They have a moderate kick—adjust buffalo sauce to your taste.
Can I freeze them before cooking?
Absolutely! Freeze raw meatballs, then cook when ready.
💡 Pro Tips
- Don’t overmix the meat for tender meatballs
- Use panko for a lighter texture
- Cook in batches for even browning
- Add extra sauce for more flavor