Healthy Buffalo Chicken Meatballs

These Healthy Buffalo Chicken Meatballs are a freezer-friendly lunch or dinner idea – they’re also perfect for meal prep!

These meatballs are easy to prep ahead of time and can be served so many different ways. They’re perfect for work lunches or hosting at home!

Why you’ll love this recipe

• Healthy and flavourful: Packed with protein and coated in a tangy buffalo sauce.
• Versatile: Perfect for lunch, dinner, or as a party appetizer.
• Easy to make: Simple ingredients and quick prep for a stress-free recipe.

Ingredients and substitutions

Meatballs

• Ground chicken – you can also use ground turkey or extra-lean ground beef.
• Breadcrumbs – regular, panko, or gluten-free breadcrumbs all work.
• Egg – acts as a binder; you can use 1 egg replacer if needed.
• Buffalo sauce – use your favourite store-bought brand.
• Red onion – white or yellow onion would also be good.
• Garlic – fresh or jarred minced garlic works or garlic powder in a pinch.

Celery Slaw

• Coleslaw mix – or finely shredded cabbage and carrots.
• Celery – adds crunch and flavour, but you can leave out if you don’t like celery.
• Apple cider vinegar – any vinegar will work but ACV gives a nice tang.
• Light mayo – swap for Greek yogurt or regular mayo.
• Sugar – can use honey or maple syrup instead.

To Serve

• Buffalo sauce – for drizzling. Use your favourite store-bought.
• Ranch dressing – optional. Use your favourite brand or blue cheese dressing.
• Blue cheese – optional. Can substitute feta or omit.
• Green onion – optional.
• Oven fries – sweet potato or regular.

How to make buffalo chicken meatballs

Step 1: Mix the meatballs.

Add the ingredients for the meatballs to a bowl and mix until just combined.

Step 2: Form and bake.

Form the meatballs and bake in the oven.

Step 3: Prep the fries.

Cut the potato into fries and bake in the oven.

Step 4: Prep the slaw.

Chop the celery then mix the slaw ingredients together.

Step 5: Sauce the meatballs.

Make the buffalo sauce and toss the cooked meatballs in until coated.

Step 6: Finish and serve.

Serve the meatballs with the celery slaw and fries, top with garnishes and enjoy!

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I prevent the meatballs from becoming tough?

To keep meatballs tender, avoid over-mixing the meat mixture and do not overbake them. Using a binder like eggs and breadcrumbs also helps maintain moisture.

Can I make them in the slow cooker?

You sure can! The slow cooker is a great option if you’re making these meatballs for a party, since they’ll stay warm the entire time without drying out. Just make sure to use some of the buffalo sauce to keep them from sticking to the bottom of the pot or drying out.

Can I incorporate vegetables into the meatballs?

Absolutely! Adding finely shredded vegetables like zucchini or carrots can enhance the moisture and nutritional content of the meatballs. Ensure the vegetables are well-drained to prevent excess moisture in the mixture.

What to serve with buffalo chicken meatballs

I love serving these buffalo chicken meatballs with a celery slaw and fries to make it a full meal, but here are some other ideas:

• Rice or quinoa
• Roasted or air-fried veggies
• Zoodles or spaghetti squash
• Polenta or cauliflower mash
• Slider buns
• Sweet potato fries

Storing and reheating

Storing: Keep cooked meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Reheat: Microwave the meatballs for 1-2 minutes, or reheat in the oven at 400°F for 10-15 minutes.

Freezing: Freeze the meatballs cooked or uncooked for up to 3 months. For uncooked meatballs, freeze them on a tray first to prevent sticking, then transfer to airtight containers. For cooked meatballs, cool completely before freezing.

Defrosting and reheating: Defrost the meatballs in the fridge overnight, then cook or reheat them as normal.