Buffalo Chicken Meatballs That Will Kick Your Game Day Up a Notch

Last Updated on February 12, 2026 by Antoni Recipes Team

There s something undeniably exciting about hearing your friends cheer as they gather around the table for game day. Just as the anticipation builds, I ve found the perfect recipe to steal the spotlight: Spicy Buffalo Chicken Meatballs. With the enticing aroma of spicy hot sauce mingling with creamy blue cheese, these meatballs deliver all the flavors of traditional Buffalo wings, minus the mess.

After a particularly long week, creating these convenient and quick appetizers in just 30 minutes became my little kitchen escape. They re not only bursting with flavor but also provide a delightful bite that leaves everyone craving more. Perfect for parties or simply enjoying a cozy night at home, these meatballs can be whipped up effortlessly and will keep your guests cheering for more. So, let s dive into this game-winning recipe!

Why are Buffalo Chicken Meatballs a Game Day Must?

Unforgettable Flavor: The fusion of spicy hot sauce and creamy blue cheese offers a satisfying taste that s simply irresistible.
Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, they re perfect for those busy game days when time is tight.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Everyone loves a good meatball, and these deliver the classic flavors of Buffalo wings without the mess!
Versatile: Enjoy these meatballs as an appetizer, main dish, or even in a sandwich perfect for any occasion!
Make-Ahead Convenience: Prep them in advance, refrigerate, and bake right before the game for a stress-free entertaining experience.

Buffalo Chicken Meatball Ingredients

Note: Gather these ingredients for an unforgettable Buffalo chicken meatball experience.

For the Meatballs
Ground Chicken Provides the base protein for the meatballs; you can use ground turkey for a leaner option.
Panko Bread Crumbs Adds lightness and helps bind the meatballs; substitute with regular breadcrumbs if panko is unavailable.
Celery Offers a crunchy texture and flavor; finely chopped bell pepper can serve as a tasty replacement.
Green Onions Adds freshness and a mild onion flavor; consider chives as an alternative or simply omit if desired.
Garlic Provides aromatic flavor; fresh garlic works best, but garlic powder can do in a pinch.
Egg Acts as a binding agent for the meatballs; for a vegan alternative, try ground flaxseed mixed with water.
Blue Cheese Contributes rich creaminess and a distinctive flavor; feta is a good substitute, or you can omit it for a lighter version.

For the Sauce
Unsalted Butter Helps blend ingredients for the sauce; olive oil is a suitable substitute for a dairy-free option.
Hot Sauce (Frank s RedHot) The key ingredient for that classic Buffalo flavor; adjust the amount based on your spice tolerance.
Kosher Salt Enhances the overall flavor; you can use regular salt, but be mindful to adjust the quantity as needed.
Onion Powder Adds depth of flavor; swap it with garlic powder for a fun twist.

These Buffalo chicken meatballs are sure to tantalize your taste buds and elevate your game day experience!

How to Make Buffalo Chicken Meatballs

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400 °F (200 °C). This will ensure your meatballs cook evenly and become golden brown.

2. Prepare the Sauce: In a medium saucepan, combine unsalted butter, hot sauce, and blue cheese. Heat over medium, whisking until melted and smooth. Season with kosher salt and set aside to cool slightly.

3. Mix the Meatball Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine panko, celery, garlic, egg, green onions, onion powder, and kosher salt. Mix thoroughly to incorporate all the flavors, and then add the ground chicken along with half of the Buffalo sauce. Blend gently until just mixed.

4. Form the Meatballs: Using your hands, shape the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and place them on a baking sheet lightly coated with oil. This will help in achieving that perfect crispy exterior.

5. Bake to Perfection: Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 15-17 minutes, or until they turn a gorgeous golden brown and are cooked through.

6. Toss in Sauce: Remove the meatballs from the oven and toss them in the remaining Buffalo sauce to ensure they are beautifully coated and flavorful.

Optional: Serve with ranch or blue cheese dressing for a delicious dip.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Buffalo Chicken Meatballs?

Elevate your game day spread with delicious accompaniments that perfectly complement these spicy meatballs.

• Celery Sticks: Fresh and crunchy, they provide a cool contrast to the heat of the meatballs. Ideal for dipping in ranch or blue cheese.

• Carrot Sticks: These sweet veggies add a delightful crunch and are perfect for balancing out the bold flavors of Buffalo sauce.

• Creamy Blue Cheese Dressing: A classic pairing! Its rich and tangy flavor complements the meatballs and enhances the overall experience.

• Potato Wedges: Crispy on the outside and fluffy inside, these savory wedges are a hearty addition, perfect for soaking up that tasty sauce.

• Garlic Bread: Whether toasted or cheesy, it serves as a delicious vehicle for any leftover sauce, making it a surefire crowd-pleaser!

• Craft Beer: A refreshing pint enhances the spicy experience. Opt for a hoppy IPA that can stand up to the heat of the meatballs.

• Light Salad: A simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette adds brightness and freshness, balancing the richness of the meatballs and sauce.

• Dessert Bars: Finish off the meal with something sweet, like gooey blondies or chocolate chip cookie bars, for a delightful contrast after those spicy bites.

Buffalo Chicken Meatballs Variations

Customize your Buffalo chicken meatballs for a unique twist that will surprise your taste buds!

• Dairy-Free: Substitute blue cheese with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy. This keeps the dish lighter!
• Vegetable Boost: Add finely grated zucchini or carrots to the meat mixture for extra moisture and a nutritious punch. It s a sneaky way to get more veggies in!
• Heat It Up: Increase the amount of hot sauce or add diced jalapeños for an extra kick. Your guests will be reaching for more!
• Bread Crumb Option: Swap panko for crushed tortilla chips for a crunchy texture and a fun twist. This adds a delightful crunch in each bite!
• Savory Herbs: Mix in fresh chopped herbs like parsley or cilantro for a fresh flavor explosion. It s like a garden in your meatballs!
• BBQ Flavor: For a milder version, use BBQ sauce instead of hot sauce. It adds a smoky sweetness that will appeal to everyone.
• Italian Inspiration: Incorporate Italian seasoning and swap out blue cheese for mozzarella. This turns your meatballs into a delightful fusion dish!
• Baked or Fried: For a crispy texture, consider frying the meatballs instead of baking. Just be sure to watch them closely!

Get ready to explore the mouthwatering possibilities with these variations on your beloved Buffalo chicken meatballs!

Expert Tips for Making Buffalo Chicken Meatballs

• Mix Well: Ensure that the meatball mixture is well combined to avoid dry spots. This is key for juicy Buffalo chicken meatballs!

• Uniform Size: Use a cookie scoop for uniform meatball sizes, promoting even cooking and preventing some from being overcooked or undercooked.

• Watch the Oven: Monitor closely while baking to prevent overcooking; aim for a golden brown color to stay moist and tender inside.

• Spice Adjustments: Adjust the amount of hot sauce based on your spice tolerance, but remember that it s the heart of Buffalo flavor!

• Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, use fresh garlic and herbs for an extra flavor punch that elevates your Buffalo chicken meatballs to the next level.

Storage Tips for Buffalo Chicken Meatballs

• Fridge: Store leftover Buffalo chicken meatballs in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Ensure they cool completely before sealing to maintain freshness.

• Freezer: Wrap meatballs tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight when ready to enjoy.

• Reheating: To reheat, place the meatballs in a preheated oven at 350 °F (175 °C) for about 15 minutes or microwave them on medium power until heated through. Enjoy them warm for the best flavor!

• Make-Ahead Tips: You can prepare the meatballs ahead of time and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. Just toss them in the sauce right before serving to keep them juicy!

Make Ahead Options

These Buffalo Chicken Meatballs are a fantastic choice for busy home cooks looking to save time during game day preparations! You can form the meatballs and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking just be sure to cover them tightly to maintain freshness. The sauce can also be made ahead and stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you re ready to serve, simply bake the chilled meatballs directly from the fridge, and toss them in the pre-made sauce. This prep will ensure that your meatballs come out just as delicious and flavorful, allowing you more time to enjoy the festivities!

Buffalo Chicken Meatballs Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right ground chicken?
Absolutely! When choosing ground chicken for your Buffalo chicken meatballs, look for fresh, pink meat with little to no visible fat. If you can, opt for quality brands that offer ground chicken with minimal fillers, ensuring the best flavor and texture. Ground turkey is also a fantastic lean alternative if you prefer a lighter option.

What s the best way to store leftover meatballs?
Very! After enjoying your Buffalo chicken meatballs, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure they are completely cooled before sealing to keep them fresh. When it s time to enjoy them again, simply reheat them in the oven or microwave, and they ll taste just as fabulous!

Can I freeze Buffalo chicken meatballs?
Absolutely! To freeze your Buffalo chicken meatballs, wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored this way for up to 3 months. When you re ready to indulge, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

What should I do if my meatballs turn out dry?
Oh no! If you find that your meatballs are dry, there are a couple of steps you can take: First, ensure that your mixture is well-combined to prevent dry spots. When forming the meatballs, don t over-mix, as this can make them dense. Adding a little more moisture, like a splash of chicken broth or an extra egg, can also help keep them juicy. If they re already baked, serving them with extra Buffalo sauce can add moisture back to the meatballs!

Can I make these meatballs spicy enough for my pets?
Not at all! While our delectable Buffalo chicken meatballs are a hit with humans, they aren t suitable for pets due to the spices, particularly hot sauce, which can upset their stomachs. Stick to plain, cooked chicken without seasoning or spices if you want to share a tasty treat with your furry friends.

What are some allergies to consider when making this recipe?
Very important! When preparing Buffalo chicken meatballs, keep in mind common allergens like eggs, dairy (in blue cheese), and gluten (in panko bread crumbs). For a gluten-free option, substitute panko with certified gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed rice crackers. You can adjust or omit cheese for dairy-sensitive diners, perhaps employ nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the lactose. Always double-check with guests about their dietary restrictions before serving!