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Buffalo Italian Chicken Meatballs

Buffalo Italian Chicken Meatballs

Buffalo Italian Chicken Meatballs combine the spicy tang of Buffalo sauce with the aromatic herbs and rich flavors of Italian cuisine. Made with lean ground chicken and simple, fresh ingredients, these meatballs offer a healthy yet hearty dish perfect for game days, family dinners, or party appetizers. They are easy to prepare, customizable in heat level, and deliver a satisfying fusion of bold, tangy, and savory flavors in every bite.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground chicken
  • 1/2 cup bread crumbs
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cloves minced garlic
  • 1/4 cup finely minced onion
  • 1 tbsp Italian seasoning blend (basil, oregano, rosemary, thyme)
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/4 cup Buffalo sauce (plus extra for tossing)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Meatball Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, bread crumbs, grated Parmesan, minced garlic and onion, Italian seasoning, chopped parsley, egg, and a generous splash of Buffalo sauce. Mix gently but thoroughly to evenly distribute flavors without overworking the meat.
  2. Shape the Meatballs: Using your hands or a small scoop, form the mixture into uniform, bite-sized balls about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet for easy cleanup.
  3. Cook the Meatballs: Preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C). Bake the meatballs for 15-20 minutes until cooked through and golden. Alternatively, pan-fry them in olive oil for a crispier exterior, turning to brown all sides evenly.
  4. Toss in Buffalo Sauce: Once cooked, toss the meatballs in extra Buffalo sauce to coat thoroughly. For an added Italian touch, drizzle melted butter or sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top before serving.

Notes

  • Do not overmix the meatball mixture to avoid dense meatballs; aim for tender bites.
  • Keep meatballs small for even cooking and easy snacking.
  • Use fresh herbs like parsley and Italian seasoning for best flavor.
  • Let the shaped meatballs chill for 10 minutes before baking to help maintain their shape.
  • Choose a Buffalo sauce with a balanced spice and tang level that suits your preference.

Nutrition

Keywords: Buffalo chicken meatballs, Italian meatballs, spicy appetizers, game day recipe, healthy meatballs, baked meatballs