Meatballs make a tasty weeknight dinner; but, they also make a high-protein game day snack, or fun party appetizer!

With a few simple ingredients, meatballs are easy to prepare. Plus, they can be low carb, keto, gluten free, or even vegetarian! For this recipe, I used ground chicken. Ground beef or turkey would also work well. And, the same base could be turned into burgers for a spicy take on Burger Night!

These meatballs are a healthier way to enjoy wings. And, they are not nearly as messy. Only 4 ingredients, but tons of flavor! With a little Buffalo sauce on the inside, plus they are topped with a simple homemade Buffalo sauce. Meatballs can be baked at 400 degrees for 16-20 minutes or browned in a skillet.

Serve with bleu cheese and celery for a real wing night feel!

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What is Buffalo sauce?

Buffalo sauce is hot sauce plus a fat, usually butter. I usually add lime juice and brown sugar too. This creates a creamy sauce, perfect for meat and veggies! Buffalo wings, and the sauce, originated from Anchor Bar, located in Buffalo, New York…hence the name. They were created as a way to use chicken wings that had been accidentally delivered to the bar.

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Ingredients in Buffalo Chicken Meatballs

• Ground Chicken
• Butter
• Hot Sauce
• Lime Juice
• Brown Sugar

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How to Make Buffalo Chicken Meatballs

1. In a large mixing bowl, add the ground chicken. Then, season with salt and pepper. In a small bowl, melt 1 Tbsp. of butter. Next, stir in 1 tsp. of hot sauce. Pour over the ground chicken. Use clean hands or a spoon to mix well. Portion the meat into 4 sections. Then, split each section into 4 equal-sized pieces. Roll each portion into a ball.
2. In a large skillet, heat 1-2 Tbsp. of olive oil over medium heat. Next, add the meatballs. Cook for 2-4 minutes, until beginning to brown. Then, turn and repeat on the other sides.
3. Add 1 Tbsp. of butter to the skillet. Then, add 1 Tbsp. of hot sauce, the juice of 1/2 a lime, and about 1 tsp. of brown sugar. Stir and coat the meatballs with the sauce. Allow to cook for an additional 3-4 minutes.

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Storage

Meatballs will keep in the fridge for up to 4 days. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months. For best results, place cooked meatballs on a baking sheet and place into the freezer. Once frozen, remove and place in a container or Ziploc bag. Thaw before using. To reheat meatballs- use the microwave, a 350 degree oven, or an air fryer.

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