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Crispy Baked Buffalo Chicken Meatballs Recipe with Celery

crispy baked buffalo chicken meatballs - featured image

These crispy baked buffalo chicken meatballs feature a crunchy exterior and juicy interior, coated in a tangy buffalo sauce and complemented by fresh celery. Perfect as an easy, flavorful appetizer for game days or gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground chicken breast
  • 2 stalks celery, finely chopped
  • 3/4 cup panko breadcrumbs (75g)
  • 1 large egg, room temperature
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/2 cup buffalo sauce (120ml)
  • 2 tbsp butter, melted (28g)
  • Blue cheese crumbles or ranch dressing (optional, for serving)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat. If available, place a wire rack on top of the baking sheet.
  2. In a small bowl, mix together 1/2 cup buffalo sauce and 2 tablespoons melted butter. Set aside.
  3. In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, finely chopped celery, panko breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently but thoroughly without overworking.
  4. Shape the mixture into 1½-inch (about 4 cm) meatballs, about 20 total. Place them evenly spaced on the wire rack or directly on the prepared baking sheet.
  5. Bake for 15 minutes, then carefully flip each meatball using tongs or a spatula. Bake for another 10-12 minutes until golden and cooked through (internal temperature 165°F / 74°C).
  6. Transfer the baked meatballs to a large bowl, pour the buffalo butter sauce over them, and toss gently to coat all meatballs evenly.
  7. Serve immediately, garnished with extra chopped celery sticks and optional blue cheese crumbles or ranch dressing on the side.

Notes

Use panko breadcrumbs for a lighter, crispier texture. Do not overmix the meatball mixture to keep them tender. Flipping halfway through baking ensures even crispiness. Let meatballs rest a few minutes after baking to retain juiciness. For gluten-free, use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs. For dairy-free, substitute butter with olive oil and omit blue cheese.

Nutrition

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