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Crispy Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Meatballs

crispy cheesy buffalo chicken meatballs - featured image

These crispy cheesy buffalo chicken meatballs are an easy 30-minute appetizer that combines ground chicken, sharp cheddar, pepper jack, and cream cheese for a juicy interior, coated in panko breadcrumbs and tossed in a tangy buffalo butter glaze.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound ground chicken
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup shredded pepper jack cheese
  • 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup buffalo sauce (for the meatball base)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 2 tablespoons milk
  • 1/2 cup buffalo sauce (for the glaze)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, cheddar cheese, pepper jack cheese, cream cheese, 1/4 cup buffalo sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined.
  3. Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls (yields 20-24 meatballs) and place on the prepared baking sheet.
  4. In a shallow dish, whisk together flour, beaten eggs, and milk. In another dish, place panko breadcrumbs.
  5. Dredge each meatball in the flour mixture, dip in the egg wash, and coat thoroughly in panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
  6. Bake for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F. Alternatively, air fry at 375°F for 10-12 minutes.
  7. While meatballs cook, mix the remaining 1/2 cup buffalo sauce with melted butter.
  8. Toss cooked meatballs in the buffalo butter glaze until fully coated.
  9. Serve immediately with ranch or blue cheese dressing.

Notes

Do not overmix the meatball mixture to avoid tough texture. Ensure meatballs are evenly sized for consistent cooking. For extra crispiness, spray breaded meatballs with cooking spray before baking. Keep ingredients cold until cooking to maintain texture. Internal temperature must reach 165°F.

Nutrition

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