Introduction
If you're looking for a crowd-pleasing appetizer that packs a punch, spicy Buffalo chicken meatballs are a fantastic choice. These flavorful bites combine the beloved taste of Buffalo wings with the convenience of meatballs, making them perfect for game day, parties, or a cozy night in.
Each meatball is infused with zesty spices and a kick of heat, all while being tender and juicy. Paired with a creamy dip that balances the spiciness, this dish is sure to be a hit. Let's dive into this delicious recipe that will leave your guests asking for seconds.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup crumbled bleu cheese
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon milk (optional, for thinner dip)
Directions & Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, minced garlic, chopped green onions, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Mix until well combined.
- Using your hands, form the mixture into meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Drizzle the olive oil over the meatballs to help them crisp up while baking.
- Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are cooked through and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- While the meatballs are baking, prepare the creamy dip. In a small bowl, mix together the Greek yogurt, crumbled bleu cheese, lemon juice, and milk (if using). Stir until smooth and well combined.
- Once the meatballs are done, remove them from the oven and toss them in the buffalo wing sauce until evenly coated.
- Serve the spicy Buffalo chicken meatballs warm with the creamy dip on the side.
FAQs
What if my meatballs are too dry?
Ensure you don't overbake them, and consider adding a little more buffalo sauce for moisture.
Can I use other types of meat for the meatballs?
Yes, ground turkey or pork can be used as substitutes for ground chicken.
What can I do if my meatballs are falling apart?
Make sure to include enough breadcrumbs and handle the mixture gently to avoid overmixing.
How can I adjust the spiciness of the meatballs?
Add more or less buffalo sauce to your taste, or use a milder sauce for less heat.
Can I make the dip spicier?
Add a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper to the dip for an extra kick.
What if my dip is too thick?
Mix in a little more milk until you reach your desired consistency.
Can I double this recipe for a larger crowd?
Absolutely! Just adjust your baking time slightly if you are using multiple trays.
What if I want to add more flavor to the meatballs?
Incorporate additional spices like onion powder or cumin to enhance the flavor profile.
Conclusion
Spicy Buffalo chicken meatballs with creamy dip are a delightful addition to any gathering. Their bold flavors and satisfying textures make them an irresistible choice for both casual and festive occasions.
Whether enjoyed as an appetizer or a main course, these meatballs are sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Enjoy the heat, the flavor, and the smiles they bring to your table.
Recipe Card
Spicy Buffalo Chicken Meatballs with Creamy Dip
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup crumbled bleu cheese
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon milk optional, for thinner dip
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, minced garlic, chopped green onions, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Mix until well combined.
- Using your hands, form the mixture into meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Drizzle the olive oil over the meatballs to help them crisp up while baking.
- Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are cooked through and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- While the meatballs are baking, prepare the creamy dip. In a small bowl, mix together the Greek yogurt, crumbled bleu cheese, lemon juice, and milk (if using). Stir until smooth and well combined.
- Once the meatballs are done, remove them from the oven and toss them in the buffalo wing sauce until evenly coated.
- Serve the spicy Buffalo chicken meatballs warm with the creamy dip on the side.
Notes
Additional serving suggestions: pair with a crisp salad, garlic bread, or roasted seasonal vegetables for balance.
For make-ahead, prep components separately and assemble just before heating to preserve texture.
Taste and adjust with acid (lemon/vinegar) and salt right at the end to wake up flavors.
