Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Meatballs.

If you’re a fan of bold flavors and easy meal prep, these Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Meatballs are about to become your new favorite dish. Perfect for game days, family dinners, or meal prepping for the week, these meatballs are juicy, flavorful, and oh-so-satisfying. With the perfect balance of heat and creaminess, they are sure to please everyone at the table. Plus, making them in a slow cooker means you can set it and forget it, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while you go about your day.

Why Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Meatballs. is Worth Your Time

There’s something incredibly satisfying about coming home to the smell of dinner already cooked and ready to eat. Slow cooking allows the flavors to develop, making these meatballs tender and infused with the tangy goodness of buffalo sauce. Additionally, they are incredibly versatile; you can serve them as appetizers, toss them in a salad, or pair them with pasta for a filling meal. The ease of preparation combined with the delicious outcome makes this dish a must-try.

The Essentials

• Ground Chicken: The base of the meatballs, providing a lighter protein option.
• Buffalo Wing Sauce: Adds that signature spicy kick.
• Panko Bread Crumbs: Helps bind the meatballs while keeping them light and crispy.
• Spices: Salt, pepper, dried parsley, and dried basil enhance the overall flavor.
• Cheeses: Gorgonzola and Romano add a rich creaminess and depth of flavor.
• Ranch Dressing: Provides a creamy element that balances the heat.
• Olive Oil: Used for cooking and adds a touch of richness.
• Egg: Acts as a binder for the meatballs.
• Green Onions and Garlic: Freshness and flavor boosters.
• Butter: A finishing touch that adds richness to the sauce.

What’s in the Gear List

• Slow Cooker: The star of the show, allowing for hands-off cooking.
• Mixing Bowl: For combining your meatball ingredients.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Essential for accurate ingredient measurements.
• Baking Sheet: If you choose to bake the meatballs before slow cooking.
• Spatula: For mixing and transferring the meatballs.

Cook Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Meatballs. Like This

Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, buffalo wing sauce, panko bread crumbs, pepper, salt, dried parsley, dried basil, crumbled gorgonzola cheese, Romano cheese, ranch dressing, olive oil, egg, minced garlic, and sliced green onions. Mix until well combined, but be careful not to overmix.

Step 2: Form the Meatballs

Using your hands, scoop out a portion of the mixture and roll it into a ball, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Place the formed meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Repeat until all the mixture is used.

Step 3: Sear the Meatballs (Optional)

In a large skillet, heat the vegetable or canola oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the meatballs in batches, searing them for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are golden brown. This step is optional but adds a nice texture and flavor to the meatballs.

Step 4: Slow Cook the Meatballs

Transfer the seared meatballs to your slow cooker. Pour the remaining buffalo wing sauce over the top and scatter the butter pieces on top. Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the meatballs are cooked through and tender.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Once cooked, serve the meatballs warm, garnished with chopped cilantro, chives, sliced scallions, a drizzle of ranch dressing, and crumbled blue cheese. They can be served as-is or alongside your favorite sides or in a sandwich.

Smart Substitutions

• Ground Turkey: Swap the ground chicken for ground turkey for a leaner option.
• Gluten-Free Panko: Use gluten-free bread crumbs to make this dish gluten-free.
• Different Cheeses: If you’re not a fan of gorgonzola, try feta or mozzarella for a milder flavor.
• Hot Sauce: Adjust the type of hot sauce according to your heat tolerance, or use a milder sauce for less heat.

Flavor Logic

The combination of ground chicken and buffalo wing sauce creates a flavorful and moist meatball. The addition of gorgonzola cheese provides a creamy texture, while the herbs and spices enhance the flavor profile without overpowering the dish. The slow cooking process allows all the ingredients to meld together, creating a harmonious balance of heat, creaminess, and savory goodness. The final touch of butter at the end adds richness, making every bite absolutely irresistible.

How to Store & Reheat

To store leftover Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Meatballs, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When ready to reheat, thaw if frozen, and then warm them up in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. You can also reheat them in the slow cooker on low for an hour, which helps retain moisture and flavor.

Common Qs About Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Meatballs.

Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. You can also freeze them before cooking; just thaw and cook them directly in the slow cooker when you’re ready to enjoy them.

What if I don’t have a slow cooker?

No problem! You can bake these meatballs in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until fully cooked, then toss them in buffalo sauce before serving.

Are these meatballs spicy?

The heat level can vary based on the buffalo wing sauce you choose. If you prefer a milder flavor, use a mild buffalo sauce or reduce the amount used in the recipe.

Can I serve these meatballs as an appetizer?

Yes! These meatballs make a fantastic appetizer. Serve them with toothpicks and a side of ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping, and watch them disappear!

Try These Next

• Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Chicken
• Crispy Baked Buffalo Cauliflower
• Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta
• Spicy Chickpea Tacos

Time to Try It

With all the tips and tricks laid out for you, there’s no reason not to dive into making these Slow Cooker Buffalo Chicken Meatballs. They’re sure to become a staple in your meal rotation. Gather your ingredients, set your slow cooker, and get ready to enjoy a dish that’s bursting with flavor and guaranteed to impress. Happy cooking!