Imagine biting into a mouthwatering meatball that explodes with tangy buffalo flavor and creamy goodness - these Creamy Buffalo Chicken Meatballs are about to become your new obsession! Whether you're looking for a crowd-pleasing appetizer or a protein-packed main course, this recipe will transform your ordinary meal into an extraordinary culinary experience that'll have everyone asking for seconds.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup buffalo sauce
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing for serving
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure that the meatballs cook evenly and develop a nice golden color.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, buffalo sauce, grated Parmesan cheese, and the egg. Use your hands or a spoon to mix the ingredients until they are well combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatballs tough.
- Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Remember that the buffalo sauce and Parmesan cheese already contain some salt, so adjust accordingly.
- Using your hands, form the mixture into meatballs about 1 to
- 5 inches in diameter. Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased to prevent sticking.
- Once all the meatballs are formed, place the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Bake the meatballs for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are cooked through and have an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- While the meatballs are baking, prepare the ranch dressing for serving. You can use store-bought ranch dressing or make your own if you prefer.
- Once the meatballs are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. This will help them firm up a bit and make them easier to handle.
- Serve the creamy buffalo chicken meatballs warm with ranch dressing on the side for dipping. Enjoy your delicious and flavorful dish!
Tips
- Use fresh ground chicken for the best texture and flavor. Avoid using pre-frozen meat if possible.
- Don't overmix the ingredients - this can make your meatballs tough. Mix just until everything is combined.
- For perfectly round meatballs, wet your hands slightly before shaping to prevent the mixture from sticking.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the meatballs reach the safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- For extra crispy edges, you can briefly broil the meatballs for 2-3 minutes after baking.
- Make extra and freeze them for quick future meals - they reheat beautifully!
- Experiment with different dipping sauces like blue cheese or a homemade spicy aioli for variety.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 110mg