Buffalo-Style Chicken Meatball Subs with Zesty Toppings

Experience the irresistible taste of Buffalo-Style Chicken Meatball Subs, a delightful twist on traditional buffalo wings transformed into juicy meatballs, perfectly sandwiched in a hearty sub roll. This dish combines the spicy zing of buffalo sauce with tender ground chicken meatballs, all topped with your choice of savory garnishes.

Overview of Buffalo-Style Chicken Meatball Subs

This dish is an excellent option for anyone looking to spice up their mealtime with something hearty and flavorful. The meatballs are a savory blend of ground chicken, spices, and buffalo sauce, making each bite a delightful experience.

Essential Ingredients and Suggestions

• Ground Chicken: The foundation of our meatballs, providing a light yet hearty base that absorbs all the flavors beautifully.
• Panko Breadcrumbs: These Japanese-style breadcrumbs add a light, crisp texture to the meatballs, ensuring they remain juicy inside. If unavailable, standard breadcrumbs can be substituted, though the texture will slightly differ.
• Dry Ranch Seasoning: Enhances the meatballs with a tangy, herby flavor. Homemade seasoning can elevate the taste even further.
• Buffalo Sauce: A crucial ingredient, imparting a bold, spicy flavor that’s iconic to buffalo dishes. Homemade or store-bought buffalo sauce can be used, depending on your preference.
• Toppings: Blue cheese crumbles and ranch dressing are classic pairings with buffalo-flavored dishes, adding a creamy texture and tangy taste that complements the spicy meatballs.

Preparation Steps for Convenience

1. Meatball Preparation: Assemble the meatballs ahead of time and refrigerate or freeze them to save on preparation time during busy days.
2. Baking Option: For a healthier version or to avoid frying, the meatballs can be baked in the oven until fully cooked and golden.

Storage and Freezing

• Refrigeration: Cooked meatballs can be stored in the refrigerator for quick meals throughout the week.
• Freezing: Both cooked and uncooked meatballs can be frozen for future use, making this dish a great make-ahead option for meal planning.

Recipe Ingredients

Meatballs:

• 2 pounds (907g) of ground chicken
• 1 cup (108g) of plain panko breadcrumbs
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• ½ cup (56g) of cheddar cheese, shredded
• 3 tablespoons of dry ranch seasoning
• ½ cup (120ml) of buffalo sauce, divided
• 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon (15ml) of canola oil, for frying
• 1 tablespoon (14g) of unsalted butter, for frying

Optional Toppings:

• Blue cheese crumbles
• Ranch dressing
• Chopped green onions

Cooking Instructions

Meatball Preparation:

1. Prep the Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, panko, eggs, cheddar cheese, ranch seasoning, half
3. the buffalo sauce, and garlic powder. Mix until just combined to avoid overworking the mixture.
4. Form Meatballs: With greased hands, form the mixture into meatballs and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Cook Meatballs: In a skillet, heat oil and butter over medium heat. Fry meatballs until browned on all sides and cooked through to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Baste with the remaining buffalo sauce.

Oven Baking Alternative:

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place formed meatballs on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for approximately 25 minutes or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Serving Suggestions:

Serve these buffalo chicken meatballs on sub rolls with optional toppings such as blue cheese, ranch dressing, and green onions for a full-flavored meal.

Enjoy the bold flavors and satisfying textures of these Buffalo-Style Chicken Meatball Subs, perfect for any occasion that calls for a hearty, flavorful dish.