Name: Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Meatballs
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 125 min
Total time: 140 min
Ingredients: 1 pound ground chicken; ¾ cup breadcrumbs ((I used Panko)); 1 large egg; ½ teaspoon garlic powder; ½ teaspoon onion powder; 2 green onions ((thinly sliced)); ½ teaspoon salt ((or to taste)); ½ teaspoon pepper ((or to taste)); ¾ cup buffalo sauce ((I used Frank’s)); ¼ cup blue cheese dressing

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When it comes to comfort food, nothing quite hits the spot like Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Meatballs. There’s something incredibly satisfying about biting into those tender, juicy meatballs bursting with spicy buffalo flavor. I still remember the first time I made them for game day. Everyone gathered around the table, excited to dig into the delicious spread. As the aroma filled the room, my friends couldn’t help but ask for the recipe. It was a hit! These meatballs are not just easy to make, but they also bring a lively twist to any gathering.

Every time I take a batch out of the slow cooker, I smile at how versatile they are. They’re perfect for parties, casual dinners, or even just a cozy night in while binge-watching your favorite series. The best part? You can prep them in advance and let the slow cooker do all the hard work while you relax. So, if you’re looking to impress friends or family with minimal effort, the Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Meatballs are your go-to. Trust me; you’ll want to keep this recipe close!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
2 hr 20 mins

Prep Time:
15 mins

Cook Time:
125 mins

Difficulty:
Hard

Calories:
220 kcal

Protein:
18 g

Diet:
Keto, Low FODMAP

Fat:
10 g

Tools Used:
6-Quart Programmable Slow Cooker

Why This Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Meatballs Hits Different

Simple Yet Flavorful

One of the reasons I adore this recipe is how simple yet flavorful it is. The blend of ground chicken with spices, combined with the tangy kick from buffalo sauce, creates a taste sensation that never gets old.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether it’s a game day gathering or a cozy family dinner, these meatballs are perfect for any occasion. They can be served as appetizers with toothpicks or over a bed of rice for a complete meal. The versatility is endless!

Make Ahead Convenience

Another reason to love Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Meatballs is the make-ahead convenience. You can easily mix the ingredients in advance, form the meatballs, and pop them in the freezer. On the day of your event, just throw them into the slow cooker, and you’re good to go!

Healthy Twist

Using ground chicken instead of beef or pork makes these meatballs a healthier option without sacrificing flavor. They’re packed with protein and can be paired with a fresh salad to keep things light.

Kid-Friendly

Kids absolutely love these meatballs! The spicy buffalo flavor can be toned down or paired with blue cheese dressing for those who want to experiment with flavors. It’s a great way to introduce them to new tastes while still keeping it enjoyable.

Customizable

Feel free to customize the recipe to your taste. Add in different spices or try using different sauces. The Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Meatballs are a great base for creativity!

What You Need for Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Meatballs

Gathering the right ingredients is key to making delicious Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Meatballs. Each component plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect flavor and texture. From the ground chicken to the spicy buffalo sauce, these ingredients complement each other beautifully, making for a hearty dish that everyone will love.

1 pound ground chicken – The base of our meatballs, providing lean protein that’s easy to work with.
¾ cup breadcrumbs (I used Panko) – These add texture and help bind the meatballs together.
1 large egg – Acts as a binding agent, keeping everything together.
½ teaspoon garlic powder – Adds a savory depth of flavor to the meatballs.
½ teaspoon onion powder – Complementing the garlic, it enhances the overall taste.
2 green onions (thinly sliced) – Freshness and a slight crunch, elevating the dish.
½ teaspoon salt (or to taste) – Essential for flavor enhancement.
½ teaspoon pepper (or to taste) – Adds a subtle kick and warmth.
¾ cup buffalo sauce (I used Frank’s) – The star ingredient that brings the heat and tanginess.
¼ cup blue cheese dressing – Optional, but a creamy addition that pairs perfectly with buffalo flavor.

Making Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Meatballs

Creating Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Meatballs is a breeze, especially with the help of a slow cooker. Follow these detailed steps for perfectly cooked meatballs.

Preheat your oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to ensure the meatballs don’t stick.
In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, and green onions. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Using a wooden spoon or your clean hands, stir until well combined. You want the mixture to be cohesive yet not overly sticky.
Roll the mixture into 1¼ to 1 ½-inch meatballs, forming about 20 meatballs. The goal is to make them uniform in size for even cooking.
Place the meatballs onto the prepared baking sheet and bake for 4 to 5 minutes, or until all sides are browned. Browning them first enhances the flavor and gives a great texture.
Transfer the meatballs into your crockpot. Pour in the buffalo sauce and gently toss to combine, ensuring each meatball is coated in sauce.
Cover the crockpot and cook on low heat for 2 hours. You’ll know they’re done when they are cooked through and heated all the way.
Serve immediately, drizzled with blue cheese dressing, if desired. These meatballs are excellent hot but can also be enjoyed at room temperature, making them perfect for parties!

Things Worth Knowing

Don’t skip browning: Browning the meatballs before adding them to the crockpot seals in moisture and enhances flavor.
Check doneness: Always ensure the internal temperature of the meatballs reaches 165°F for safe consumption.
Prep in advance: You can prepare the meatballs the night before and keep them in the fridge before cooking.
Spice level: Adjust the amount of buffalo sauce according to your heat preference. Feel free to use milder sauces for a less spicy kick.

Making Adjustments

Sometimes you need to tweak recipes to suit your taste or dietary needs. Here are some adjustments you can make while preparing Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Meatballs.

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Freezing: Freeze uncooked meatballs on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be cooked from frozen, just add an extra 30 minutes to the cooking time.
Pairing: Serve with celery sticks and carrots for a crunchy contrast that complements the spicy meatballs.
Gluten-Free: To make these meatballs gluten-free, swap out regular breadcrumbs for gluten-free options.
Spice Variations: Experiment with different hot sauces to find your perfect heat level.
Add-Ins: Mix in some shredded cheese for extra flavor and moisture in the meatballs.
Double Batch: Consider making a double batch; these meatballs freeze well and are great for quick meals later!

What Goes Well With This Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Meatballs

When serving Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Meatballs, the right pairings can elevate your meal to the next level. Here are some ideas:

Fresh Vegetables: Serve with crunchy vegetables like celery sticks and carrot sticks to balance the richness of the meatballs.
Salads: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette pairs wonderfully with the spicy flavor of the meatballs.
Rice or Quinoa: For a heartier meal, serve them over a bed of rice or quinoa to soak up the sauce.
Sandwiches: Consider making sliders with the meatballs on small rolls topped with lettuce and ranch or blue cheese dressing.
Occasions: These meatballs are fantastic for game day, potlucks, or casual family dinners.
Storage Tips: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge and taste even better the next day.
Seasonal Pairings: In the fall, serve alongside warm roasted veggies for a cozy meal.

FAQ

Absolutely! While this recipe calls for ground chicken, you can easily substitute it with ground turkey or even a mix of beef and pork for a richer flavor. Just keep in mind that the cooking time may vary slightly depending on the meat used. Make sure to check for doneness!

The spiciness of Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Meatballs largely depends on the buffalo sauce you choose. If you prefer a milder flavor, opt for a sauce labeled as ‘mild’ or ‘medium’. You can also mix it with some honey or barbecue sauce to balance out the heat. For those who love spice, go for a hot sauce with a higher Scoville rating!

Yes, you can! One of the best things about Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Meatballs is that they can be prepared ahead of time. You can mix the ingredients and form the meatballs a day in advance. Just store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook them. You can also freeze them for later use, which makes meal prep a breeze!

These meatballs are incredibly versatile. You can serve them as appetizers with celery sticks and blue cheese dressing for dipping. They also work wonderfully in sandwiches, over pasta, or alongside a fresh salad. Feel free to get creative and pair them with your favorite sides!

Conclusion

The Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Meatballs are a delightful blend of flavors and comfort that everyone will love. They’re easy to prepare and perfect for gatherings or a cozy dinner at home. I encourage you to give this recipe a try. You won’t be disappointed, and your friends and family will be begging for the recipe!