If youโre a fan of all things spicy, crispy, and savory, then youโre in for a treat with these Buffalo Chicken Meatballs. Picture this: tender chicken meatballs coated in a flavorful, spicy buffalo sauce, perfectly balanced by a rich and creamy dip. Whether youโre hosting a game day party, having a cozy dinner night, or just craving a snack with a kick, these meatballs will hit the spot. Trust me, you wonโt be able to stop at just one!
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Why Youโll Love Buffalo Chicken Meatballs with Creamy Dip
Hereโs why this dish is about to become your new favorite:
- Bold & Zesty: The spicy buffalo sauce gives these meatballs an exciting flavor thatโs irresistible. Itโs the perfect amount of heat, combined with a bit of tang, thatโll make your taste buds do a happy dance.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether youโre hosting friends or just craving a satisfying snack, these meatballs are perfect for sharing. Plus, theyโre great for meal prep or even as a quick appetizer.
- Healthy Twist on a Classic: These meatballs are made with lean ground chicken, making them a healthier option than traditional buffalo wings but still packed with flavor. You get all the fun of buffalo flavor without the guilt!
- Creamy Dip: The dip is the cherry on topโitโs creamy, cooling, and the perfect contrast to the spicy meatballs. Itโs the kind of dip that makes you want to eat the entire bowl!
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and easy steps make this recipe beginner-friendly. Youโll be amazed at how quickly you can whip up these flavorful meatballs.
Ingredients
Letโs break down what makes these Buffalo Chicken Meatballs so irresistible:
- Ground Chicken: The main ingredient, lean and juicy, providing the perfect base for these meatballs.
- Breadcrumbs: These help bind the meatballs together and give them that golden, crispy texture on the outside.
- Egg: To hold everything together and keep the meatballs moist and tender.
- Buffalo Sauce: The star of the show! This sauce is tangy, spicy, and gives the meatballs that signature buffalo flavor.
- Garlic Powder: A little garlic powder brings depth and savory goodness to the meatballs.
- Onion Powder: Adds a subtle sweetness and balance to the spiciness of the buffalo sauce.
- Salt & Pepper: To taste, of course! Seasoning is key to elevating the flavors of these meatballs.
- Cream Cheese: For the creamy dip, cream cheese adds richness and smoothness.
- Sour Cream: Helps balance out the richness of the cream cheese and adds a tangy kick.
- Ranch Dressing: A classic dipping sauce for buffalo-flavored dishes, providing a cool, creamy finish to the spicy meatballs.
- Chives (optional): For garnish, giving a pop of color and a fresh, herbal note.
(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
Instructions
Ready to make these mouthwatering meatballs? Letโs get started:
- Make the Meatballs: In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until fully combined, then form into meatballs about 1 inch in diameter.
- Cook the Meatballs: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat with a little oil. Once hot, add the meatballs and cook for about 6-8 minutes, turning them occasionally until theyโre golden brown and cooked through.
- Coat in Buffalo Sauce: In a small bowl, mix buffalo sauce with a little melted butter (if desired, for extra richness). Once the meatballs are cooked, toss them in the buffalo sauce until theyโre fully coated.
- Prepare the Creamy Dip: In a bowl, combine cream cheese, sour cream, and ranch dressing. Stir until smooth and creamy. Garnish with chopped chives for a pop of color if desired.
- Serve & Enjoy: Arrange the buffalo chicken meatballs on a platter and serve with the creamy dip on the side for dipping. These are perfect for any gathering or just a delicious, spicy treat.
How to Serve Buffalo Chicken Meatballs with Creamy Dip
These meatballs are perfect for a variety of occasions. Hereโs how to serve them:
- Game Day Snack: Serve them as a game day snack for your friends and family. These meatballs will definitely be the star of the show!
- Appetizer for Parties: Serve with a side of veggies or chips for dipping, and youโve got an appetizer that everyone will love.
- Casual Dinner: Pair with a side of roasted veggies, a simple salad, or even some mashed potatoes for a delicious and fun dinner.
- Meal Prep: These meatballs are perfect for meal prep! Make a batch ahead of time and store them in the fridge for a few days. Just reheat them and serve with your favorite sides for a quick and tasty meal.
Additional Tips
- Buffalo Sauce: Adjust the heat level to your liking by using a milder or hotter buffalo sauce. You can even add a bit of honey for a sweet-spicy twist.
- Dip Variations: Feel free to get creative with the dip. You can add some blue cheese or hot sauce for a tangy, spicy variation.
- Meal Prep: To make this dish even easier, cook the meatballs in advance and store them in the fridge. Then, just reheat them and toss in the buffalo sauce when youโre ready to serve.
- Freezing: You can also freeze the cooked meatballs! Store them in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2-3 months. Reheat them in the oven or microwave and toss them in buffalo sauce.
FAQ Section
- Q1: Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?
- A1: Yes! You can make the meatballs ahead of time and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. When youโre ready, just heat them up and coat them in buffalo sauce.
- Q2: Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?
- A2: Absolutely! Ground turkey works just as well and gives a similar texture and flavor.
- Q3: How do I store leftovers?
- A4: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the microwave or oven before serving.
- Q4: Can I make these meatballs spicier?
- A4: Yes, if you want more heat, you can add extra hot sauce or cayenne pepper to the buffalo sauce.
- Q5: Can I freeze these meatballs?
- A5: Yes, you can freeze the cooked meatballs before or after coating them in buffalo sauce. Just store them in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
- Q6: What can I serve with these meatballs?
- A6: These meatballs pair perfectly with veggies, fries, chips, or a simple side salad.
- Q7: Can I make the dip ahead of time?
- A7: Yes, you can make the creamy dip in advance and store it in the fridge for up to a week.
- Q8: Can I use a different dip?
- A8: Of course! You can try blue cheese dressing, yogurt-based dips, or even guacamole for a different spin.
- Q9: How do I make the meatballs crispy?
- A9: To get a crispier texture, bake the meatballs in the oven at 400ยฐF for 15-20 minutes instead of pan-frying them.
- Q10: Can I double the recipe?
- A10: Absolutely! If youโre serving a crowd, feel free to double the recipe. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time if needed.
Conclusion
These Buffalo Chicken Meatballs with Creamy Dip are everything you want in a dishโspicy, savory, crispy, and creamy. Theyโre perfect for game day, parties, or a fun family dinner. Once you make them, youโll be hooked. So grab your ingredients, get cooking, and enjoy every flavorful bite!
PrintBuffalo Chicken Meatballs with Creamy Dip
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 24 balls (approximately) 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Buffalo Chicken Meatballs are juicy, flavorful, and coated in a zesty buffalo sauce, making them perfect for a protein-packed meal or appetizer. Paired with a creamy blue cheese dip and served with tender broccoli, this dish is a must-try for buffalo sauce lovers. A delicious homemade recipe thatโs easy to make for dinner, meal prep, or game day.
Ingredients
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground chicken (or a mix of chicken and turkey)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1/4 cup buffalo sauce (Frankโs RedHot or similar)
- 2 tablespoons blue cheese crumbles (optional)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Creamy Dip:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup blue cheese crumbles
- 2 tablespoons buffalo sauce
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Serving:
- Cooked broccoli florets
- Chopped chives or green onions, for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Meatballs:
- Preheat oven to 375ยฐF (190ยฐC). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine breadcrumbs and milk. Let sit for a few minutes to soften.
- Add ground chicken, egg, buffalo sauce, blue cheese (if using), Worcestershire sauce, garlic, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until well combined.
- Form the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake the Meatballs:
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until cooked through and golden brown.
- Prepare the Creamy Dip:
- While the meatballs are baking, mix all dip ingredients in a bowl until smooth.
- Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Cook the Broccoli:
- Steam, roast, or sautรฉ the broccoli until tender-crisp.
- Assemble and Serve:
- Arrange broccoli on a platter.
- Top with the baked buffalo chicken meatballs.
- Drizzle the creamy dip over the meatballs.
- Garnish with chopped chives or green onions and serve immediately.
Notes
- Spice Level: Adjust the buffalo sauce to your heat preference.
- Cheese Alternatives: Swap blue cheese for ranch dressing, cheddar, or Monterey Jack.
- Cooking Methods: Try pan-frying or air-frying the meatballs for extra crispiness.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve with mashed potatoes, rice, or as an appetizer with extra buffalo sauce.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 5 meatballs + sauce
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 85mg