Healthier Buffalo Chicken Meatballs
These healthy buffalo chicken meatballs are a lighter twist on classic buffalo wings. They’re perfect for game day, meal prep, holidays, or an easy weeknight dinner. High-protein, customizable, and ready in under 30 minutes!
Servings: 5
Calories: 220kcal
Ingredients
- 1 pound lean ground chicken at least 93% lean or leaner
- 1 egg
- ½ cup almond flour or Panko bread crumbs
- 1 Tablespoon ranch dressing mix
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon pepper
- 1 cup buffalo sauce I love Frank’s brand!
- Toppings/serve with: green onions ranch dressing, blue cheese dressing
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400 degrees and lightly grease a 9×13 baking dish.
- If air frying instead, spray air fryer with non-stick spray.
- In a large bowl, combine all ingredients except for the buffalo sauce. They'll form better if not overmixed.
- Scoop about 1 Tablespoon of mixture, roll into a ball, and place in the baking dish. Continue until all mixture is used. (I like to keep the balls small so they cook more thoroughly and take less time.)
- If baking in the oven, bake at 400 degrees for about 20 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches at least 165 degrees F.
- If cooking in air fryer, place meatballs in the air fryer and air fry at 400 degrees for about 10-12 minutes.
- Pour buffalo sauce into a large bowl and toss meatballs to coat. Top with green onions and serve with ranch or blue cheese if desired.
Notes
Nutrition Disclaimer: Nutrition facts are estimates and may vary by ingredients, brands, and portion sizes. Use them as a general guide, not a guarantee.
Cooking Methods: Air Fry: Cook at 375°F for 10–12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway. Bake: Bake at 400°F for 18–20 minutes or until the meatballs reach 165°F.
Breadcrumb Options: Use almond flour to keep the recipe gluten-free, or swap in regular or gluten-free Panko for a more traditional texture.
Nutrition
Serving: 4meatballs | Calories: 220kcal | Carbohydrates: 4.4g | Protein: 18g | Fat: 15g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Cholesterol: 132mg | Sodium: 1200mg | Fiber: 4g
