Spicy Chicken Cheeseballs are the ultimate savory snack—crispy on the outside, cheesy and juicy on the inside. These homemade bites pack a flavorful punch with ground chicken, hot sauce, cheddar cheese, and warming spices all rolled into one delightful ball of goodness. Whether you’re hosting game night or just looking for a fun snack, these cheeseballs are guaranteed to impress.
Inspired by the nostalgia of store-bought favorites, this homemade version is not only healthier but far more delicious. Much like our Crispy Buffalo Chicken Bites, these are easy to prep, freeze well, and come together with just a few simple ingredients. Ready to spice up your snack game?
What are Spicy Chicken Cheeseballs?
Spicy Chicken Cheeseballs are exactly what they sound like: savory balls made from seasoned ground chicken and melty cheddar cheese with a little kick from hot sauce. Think of them as a flavorful cross between meatballs and cheesy bites. They’re baked until golden brown and perfect for dipping.
Why are they so loved? Because they’re easy, customizable, and a total crowd-pleaser. As the saying goes, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach” — and these spicy, cheesy bites make that journey a short one!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Let’s count the reasons you need these cheeseballs in your life:
- Bold flavor: Hot sauce, spices, and cheddar make for an unbeatable combination.
- Homemade goodness: No preservatives, just real ingredients and great taste.
- Freezer-friendly: Make a big batch and freeze for quick snacks or party appetizers.
If you love our Chicken Poppers, these cheeseballs will be your new go-to party treat.
How to Make Spicy Chicken Cheeseballs
Quick Overview
With just 10 minutes of prep and a half hour in the oven, these are one of the easiest and most satisfying snacks you can make. Just mix, shape, bake, and enjoy!
Ingredients:
- 3 cups all-purpose baking mix (like Bisquick)
- 1 lb (470 g) ground chicken
- 2 tbsp hot sauce (adjust to taste)
- 4 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 tsp oregano
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp sea salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Step-by-Step:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine all ingredients. Using a stand mixer with a paddle attachment makes this quick, but you can also mix by hand.
- Once everything is well incorporated, shape the mixture into 1-inch balls.
- Place the balls evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce—ranch, blue cheese, or extra hot sauce!
What to Serve Spicy Chicken Cheeseballs With:
These bites are perfect with dipping sauces like ranch, buffalo sauce, or a creamy garlic aioli. They also pair well with celery sticks or a light coleslaw for contrast. Serve with cold beer or lemonade for the perfect game day spread.
Top Tips for Perfecting Chicken Cheeseballs
- Don’t overmix: Mix just until combined to avoid tough texture.
- Cheese matters: Use freshly shredded cheddar for the best melt and flavor.
- Add-ins welcome: Try chopped jalapeños, green onions, or bacon bits for extra flavor.
- Freeze before baking: Shape the balls and freeze them raw for quick future snacking.
- Keep size consistent: For even baking, shape all balls the same size.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Store cooled cheeseballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 5-10 minutes or in the microwave for about 30 seconds. You can also freeze them for up to 2 months—bake straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes.
FAQs
Can I fry these instead of baking? Yes, you can deep-fry or air-fry them for a crispier exterior.
Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken? Absolutely. Ground turkey works just as well and gives a slightly different flavor.
What if I don’t have Bisquick? You can make your own baking mix using flour, baking powder, and a bit of salt and butter.
Conclusion
Spicy Chicken Cheeseballs are the kind of snack that disappears quickly at any gathering. Easy to make, freezer-friendly, and bursting with bold, cheesy flavor, they’re a hit with kids and adults alike. Skip the store-bought version and try these homemade delights today—your tastebuds will thank you!
Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose baking mix (like Bisquick)
- 1 lb (470 g) ground chicken
- 2 tbsp hot sauce (adjust to taste)
- 4 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 tsp oregano
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp sea salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine all ingredients. Mix well using a stand mixer or by hand.
- Form the mixture into 1-inch balls and place on the baking sheet.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
- Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce like ranch, buffalo, or garlic aioli.
Notes
Freeze raw balls on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen, adding 3–5 minutes to the cooking time. Try add-ins like jalapeños or green onions for extra flavor.