Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Meatballs

Name: Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Meatballs
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound ground chicken; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 large egg; 1/4 cup chopped green onions; 1/4 cup buffalo sauce; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened; 2 tablespoons buffalo sauce; 1/4 cup buffalo sauce; 1 tablespoon butter

Highlighted under: Easy Comfort Recipes

I absolutely love making Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Meatballs because they combine two of my favorite things: juicy meatballs and spicy buffalo chicken. The balance of flavors is incredible, and I’m always blown away by how easy they are to prepare. When I crave something with a kick, these meatballs hit the spot perfectly. Plus, they make for fantastic appetizers at gatherings or a fun family dinner. Let me show you how to make these delicious bites that everyone will rave about!

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-01-23T21:58:28.131Z

When I first tried Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Meatballs, I was amazed at how flavorful they were. I started experimenting with different spices and sauces until I got the perfect kick. The trick here is to marinate the chicken in buffalo sauce for a few hours; it really enhances the flavor! Cooking them in the oven keeps them juicy without being overly greasy, which is often a concern with regular meatballs.

I found that adding some finely chopped celery to the mixture not only adds crunch but also balances the heat from the buffalo sauce. The secret to a great meatball is ensuring that the mixture is not overworked; this keeps them tender. I can't wait for you to try this recipe!

Why You'll Love These Meatballs
Spicy buffalo flavor that excites the taste buds
Juicy chicken meatballs with a perfect texture
Easy to make and perfect for game day

Meatball Tips

When making the meatball mixture, be careful not to overwork the ground chicken. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture instead of the tender, juicy meatballs you want. Gently mixing until everything is just incorporated helps maintain a light consistency. Aim for a rough, shaggy mixture that holds together when rolled. If you notice the mixture is too sticky, a light dusting of breadcrumbs can help make it easier to handle.

The baking process is crucial for achieving the ideal meatball. A preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) ensures that the meatballs cook evenly and develop a slightly crispy exterior while remaining moist inside. If you're using a conventional oven, consider rotating the baking sheet halfway through cooking to promote even browning. Look for a golden hue to the edges—this is a sign that the meatballs are almost ready!

Flavorful Variations

While the classic buffalo chicken flavor is a hit, you can easily customize these meatballs to suit your palate. Try mixing in finely chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes for an extra kick. Alternatively, swapping out the buffalo sauce for a sweet chili sauce can create a completely different flavor profile that is equally irresistible. Adapting the filling by adding ingredients like crumbled blue cheese or a touch of ranch seasoning is a fantastic way to experiment with tastes.

For those looking for a healthier option, you can replace ground chicken with ground turkey or even plant-based meat alternatives. Just be mindful of the differences in moisture content, as turkey might require slightly more breadcrumbs to maintain structure. If you're making these meatballs gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and double-check the labels on your buffalo sauce and cheese.

Serving Suggestions

These buffalo chicken stuffed meatballs shine as a party appetizer, but they can also create a hearty main dish. Serve them over a bed of lettuce with a drizzle of ranch dressing for a low-carb meal. Alternatively, pair them with a side of celery sticks and carrot sticks for that classic buffalo sauce experience. If you're entertaining, skewering the meatballs and serving them with toothpicks makes for a fun, finger-food experience.

If you have leftovers, they store beautifully! Place them in an airtight container in the fridge where they’ll last for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze the uncooked meatballs on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag. They can be baked from frozen, simply adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time. Reheating is just as easy; pop them in a microwave or warm them in a skillet over medium heat until heated through.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Meatballs:

For the Meatballs

1 pound ground chicken
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 large egg
1/4 cup chopped green onions
1/4 cup buffalo sauce
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Filling

1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
2 tablespoons buffalo sauce

For the Sauce

1/4 cup buffalo sauce
1 tablespoon butter

Make sure to prepare all the ingredients before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Meatballs:

Prepare the Filling

In a bowl, mix together the shredded cheddar cheese, softened cream cheese, and buffalo sauce until combined. Set aside.

Make the Meatball Mixture

In another bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, green onions, buffalo sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined.

Stuff the Meatballs

Take a small amount of the meatball mixture and flatten it in your palm. Place a teaspoon of the cheese filling in the center and fold the meat around it. Roll into a ball and ensure the filling is sealed inside.

Bake the Meatballs

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the meatballs on a lined baking sheet. Bake for 25 minutes or until cooked through.

Make the Sauce

In a small saucepan, melt butter and mix in the buffalo sauce. Once the meatballs are done, toss them in the sauce before serving.

Serve the meatballs hot with extra buffalo sauce on the side for dipping!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add a dash of cayenne pepper to the meatball mixture. Alternatively, serve with blue cheese dressing for a cooling contrast to the spice.

Ingredient Insights

The choice of ground chicken is essential for achieving the flavor profile of these meatballs. Using ground chicken thigh instead of breast increases the moisture content and richness, resulting in more succulent bites. Ensure you check the fat percentage; an 85% lean ratio is often ideal for a juicy texture without excess grease.

Parmesan cheese not only adds a savory depth of flavor but also helps bind the meatball mixture, promoting a sturdy texture that will hold the stuffing. If you’re looking for a substitute, finely grated Pecorino Romano could work well, offering a slightly sharper taste.

Troubleshooting Tips

If your meatballs are falling apart, it’s likely due to not enough binding agents. Make sure you are using the full amount of breadcrumbs and egg in the recipe. If you find yourself short on breadcrumbs, crushed crackers can serve as a good substitute.

In case the filling leaks out during cooking, check that the meatballs are sealed completely. When forming them, ensure the meat mixture covers the filling completely and is rolled tightly to avoid any cracks. If you're using a particularly soft cheese for the filling, consider chilling it slightly before adding to help it hold its shape.

Make-Ahead Meal Prep

This recipe allows for significant make-ahead flexibility. You can prepare the meatballs up to a day in advance, storing them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. This not only enhances the flavors as they meld but also cuts down on the cooking time when you’re ready to serve.

For meal prep enthusiasts, assembling the meatballs in larger batches can save time during busy weeks. After baking, you can freeze the leftovers in portions for quick weeknight dinners. Just thaw the day before and reheat; it’s a hassle-free meal that feels fresh despite being cooked in advance.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use turkey instead of chicken?

Absolutely! Ground turkey works well and will still give you a delicious flavor.

→ Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the meatballs and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.

→ What if I want a milder version?

Use less buffalo sauce in the mix or opt for a milder hot sauce.

→ Can I freeze the meatballs?

Yes, freeze the uncooked meatballs for up to three months. Just thaw and bake when you're ready!