Juicy buffalo chicken meatballs skewered with crunchy veggies—these gluten-free skewers are the perfect game day or party appetizer. #buffalochicken #glutenfreeappetizers #meatballrecipes
Gluten-Free Buffalo Chicken Meatball Skewers
These Gluten-Free Buffalo Chicken Meatball Skewers turn everyone’s favorite dip into a protein-packed, bite-sized appetizer perfect for game day, parties, or easy weeknight dinners. Juicy buffalo chicken meatballs are baked until golden, brushed with spicy buffalo sauce, and skewered with celery and carrots for a fun, handheld twist. Naturally gluten-free, crowd-pleasing, and ready in under 40 minutes!
1. Yield, Time & Tools
- Yield: 18–20 meatballs (6–8 skewers)
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20–25 minutes
- Tools Needed: Mixing bowls, baking sheet, parchment paper, skewers or toothpicks
2. Ingredients
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 egg
- ½ cup gluten-free breadcrumbs or ground oats
- ¼ cup finely chopped celery
- 2 tablespoons buffalo sauce
- 2 tablespoons ranch or blue cheese dressing
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
For Finishing:
- ¼ cup buffalo sauce (for brushing)
- Celery sticks, carrot sticks, or cherry tomatoes (for skewering)
Optional Garnish:
- Ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping
- Chopped green onions
3. Preparation Steps
A. Make the Meatballs
Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment.
In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, egg, gluten-free breadcrumbs, celery, buffalo sauce, ranch dressing, garlic, salt, and pepper until just mixed. Avoid overworking.
Form into 1-inch meatballs and place on baking sheet.
B. Bake & Brush
Bake meatballs 18–20 minutes, until cooked through and golden.
Remove from oven and brush with additional buffalo sauce while hot.
C. Assemble the Skewers
Thread meatballs onto skewers with celery sticks, carrot sticks, or cherry tomatoes. Repeat until all are assembled.
D. Serve
Arrange skewers on platter. Drizzle with ranch and garnish with green onions if desired.
4. Tips & Variations
- Use ground turkey instead of chicken.
- Add finely shredded carrots to meatball mixture for extra veggies.
- Make mini skewers with toothpicks for bite-sized appetizers.
- Adjust spice level by adding more or less buffalo sauce.
5. Troubleshooting FAQ
Why are my meatballs dry?
Be careful not to overbake; check doneness at 18 minutes.
Can I make them ahead?
Yes—bake meatballs, cool, and refrigerate; reheat and assemble skewers before serving.
Can I freeze them?
Absolutely—freeze baked meatballs; thaw and reheat before brushing with buffalo sauce.
Can I grill them?
Yes—grill meatballs on skewers over medium heat, turning occasionally until cooked through.
6. Serving Suggestions
- Serve with extra buffalo sauce and ranch or blue cheese dip.
- Pair with a crisp salad or coleslaw.
- Add sweet potato fries or roasted potatoes for a complete meal.
7. Storage and Make-Ahead Instructions
Freezer Instructions: Freeze baked meatballs up to 2 months; thaw before reheating and assembling.
Storage: Keep meatballs in airtight container in fridge up to 4 days.
Reheating: Warm in oven at 350°F or microwave individual portions.
Make-Ahead Tips: Prepare meatballs ahead; assemble skewers fresh before serving.
