Thai Baked Chicken Meatballs: Quick & Delicious Recipe

Looking for a quick and flavorful meal that will transport your taste buds to Thailand? Look no further than these Easy Thai Baked Chicken Meatballs! Bursting with the vibrant flavors of cilantro, red curry, and a hint of lime, these meatballs are a delightful twist on the classic dish.

Whipping up these juicy meatballs is a breeze, making them a perfect go-to for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. The aromatic blend of fresh ingredients like garlic, ginger, and green onions will fill your kitchen with irresistible scents, setting the stage for a delicious meal ahead. Paired with jasmine rice and a side of sweet chili sauce, these meatballs are sure to become a family favorite in no time.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out in the kitchen, these Easy Thai Baked Chicken Meatballs are a foolproof recipe that guarantees a flavorful outcome every time. With simple steps and pantry staples, you can create a dish that not only tastes amazing but also brings a touch of Thai cuisine to your table. Give these meatballs a try and elevate your dinner game with a burst of exotic flavors!

Quick Benefits

• Quick weeknight dinner option using staple ingredients
• Packed with fresh flavors of cilantro and red curry
• Can be made in advance and frozen for later use
• Versatile – can be served in various ways like with jasmine rice, lettuce wraps, or in sandwiches

Why You’ll Love This Thai Baked Chicken Meatballs: Quick & Delicious Recipe Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in less than 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute party appetizers.
• Delicious Aromas: Fills your kitchen with amazing scents while baking, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.
• Fresh Flavors: Packed with the vibrant taste of cilantro and a hint of red curry, making every bite flavorful.
• Family Favorite: Once you try these, you won’t go back to your old meatball recipe – they’re a hit with both kids and adults.
• Versatile: Serve over jasmine rice, in lettuce wraps, soups, or sandwiches for a variety of delicious meal options.
• Make-Ahead: Perfect for meal prep – freeze a batch for quick dinners or party snacks anytime.
• Customizable: Swap ingredients like ground turkey or pork, add extra heat, or incorporate different veggies to suit your taste preferences.
• Moist and Juicy: Mixing breadcrumbs and lime juice into the chicken ensures a juicy texture without drying out.
• Party Hit: A crowd-pleaser at book clubs, birthdays, or any gathering – guests will be asking for the recipe.

Ingredients for Thai Baked Chicken Meatballs: Quick & Delicious Recipe

Meatball Mixture

• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon fish sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1/2 cup plain breadcrumbs
• 2 green onions, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1 teaspoon red curry paste
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 pound ground chicken

For Baking

• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

Optional Garnish

• Fresh cilantro, chopped
• Lime wedges

Pro Tips for Thai Baked Chicken Meatballs: Quick & Delicious Recipe

Pro Tip 1: To keep the meatballs juicy, mix the breadcrumbs and lime juice into the chicken mixture thoroughly. This will help retain moisture during baking. Be careful not to overbake the meatballs to maintain their juiciness.

Pro Tip 2: Prepare the meatballs in advance by shaping and chilling them. This allows the flavors to meld together and makes for an easy dinner option. You can bake them just before serving or reheat fully baked meatballs for convenience.

Pro Tip 3: Experiment with different variations by substituting ground turkey or pork for the chicken. Adjust the cooking times accordingly. Serve the meatballs with Thai sweet chili sauce, peanut sauce, or a soy-lime dressing for a delicious flavor combination.

How to Make Thai Baked Chicken Meatballs: Quick & Delicious Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Oven and Baking Sheet

Preheat the oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2: Mix Ingredients

Combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, cilantro, green onions, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, fish sauce, lime juice, red curry paste, salt, and black pepper in a large mixing bowl. Mix well.

Step 3: Form Meatballs

Form the mixture into 1 to 1.5 inch diameter meatballs by hand and place them evenly on the baking sheet.

Step 4: Drizzle and Bake

Drizzle vegetable oil over meatballs for browning. Bake for 20-25 minutes until cooked through and golden brown.

Step 5: Serve

Serve the meatballs warm with rice or noodles, and garnish with extra cilantro and lime wedges.

Storage Tips

After making the Easy Thai Baked Chicken Meatballs, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you want to store them longer, freeze the meatballs on a tray first, then transfer them to freezer bags. To reheat, use an oven or skillet with a splash of water to keep them moist and flavorful.

To freeze a batch of meatballs for future use, allow them to cool completely after baking. Place them on a tray to freeze until solid, then transfer to a bag or container. Label the package and store in the freezer for up to two months. When ready to serve, simply warm the frozen meatballs in a hot oven until heated through. These make-ahead options ensure you always have a quick and delicious meal on hand.

Ingredient Substitutions

To adapt this recipe for dietary restrictions or personal preferences, consider using ground turkey or pork instead of chicken. Both options will work well with the flavor profile of the dish and provide a tasty alternative. If you need to make the dish nut-free, ensure the breadcrumbs you use do not contain nuts and check the ingredients in the fish sauce for any traces of nuts.

For additional flavor variations, you can swap fresh cilantro with basil if preferred, especially during the summer months when basil is abundant. Adding shredded carrot to the meatball mixture can enhance sweetness and moisture, while finely chopped spinach can introduce more greens into the dish. These substitutions and additions allow for customization based on seasonal availability and personal taste preferences.

Serving Suggestions

These Easy Thai Baked Chicken Meatballs can be served in a variety of creative ways to suit different occasions and preferences. For a quick weeknight dinner, serve them over fragrant jasmine rice with a side of crisp cucumber slices. To lighten it up, tuck the flavorful meatballs into lettuce wraps and drizzle with a zesty Thai sweet chili sauce for a refreshing meal. For a party appetizer, consider using them as a filling for Thai-style banh mi sandwiches, offering a delightful fusion of flavors that will surely impress your guests.

For a fun twist, try incorporating shredded carrot into the meatball mixture for added sweetness and moisture. Additionally, consider serving the meatballs in a soup for a heartwarming and comforting meal. Whether you choose to enjoy them with a side of peanut sauce, a drizzle of soy-lime dressing, or a dollop of spicy sriracha, these versatile meatballs are sure to be a hit at any gathering or family dinner.

FAQs for Thai Baked Chicken Meatballs: Quick & Delicious Recipe

Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?

Yes, you can shape and chill the meatballs in advance. Bake them just before serving or reheat fully baked meatballs for convenience.

What sauces can I serve with these Thai baked chicken meatballs?

Thai sweet chili sauce, peanut sauce, or a soy-lime dressing complement the flavors of the meatballs beautifully.

Can I substitute any ingredients in this recipe?

Ground turkey or pork can be used as substitutes for chicken, although cooking times may vary slightly. You can also adjust the level of spice by substituting sriracha or a small amount of chili flakes to suit your taste.

How should I store and reheat leftover meatballs?

Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To extend their shelf life, freeze them on a tray before transferring to freezer bags. When reheating, use an oven or skillet with a splash of water to keep the meatballs moist.

Conclusion

In conclusion, these Easy Thai Baked Chicken Meatballs are not just a recipe but a delicious journey through flavors and memories. Whether you’re cooking up a quick weeknight meal or preparing for a gathering, these meatballs are sure to impress and leave everyone craving for more.

So, gather your ingredients and let the enticing aroma of these Thai-inspired meatballs fill your kitchen. From the zing of lime to the warmth of ginger and the savory goodness of fish sauce, every bite is a burst of flavor. Remember, cooking is about creativity, so feel free to customize the recipe to suit your preferences and dietary needs. Embrace the joy of cooking and sharing good food with loved ones. With these Easy Thai Baked Chicken Meatballs, you’re all set to create delicious memories that will linger long after the last meatball is gone. Enjoy every bite and savor the satisfaction of making something truly special!

Thai Baked Chicken Meatballs: Quick & Delicious Recipe

Juicy Thai chicken meatballs infused with cilantro, ginger, and red curry – an aromatic and easy dish for quick dinners or party appetizers.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time15 min

Cook Time25 min

Total Time40 min

CuisineThai

Skill LevelEasy

Servings4 Servings (Approximately 18-20 meatballs)

Ingredients

Meatball Mixture

• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon fish sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1/2 cup plain breadcrumbs
• 2 green onions, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1 teaspoon red curry paste
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 pound ground chicken

For Baking

• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

Optional Garnish

• Fresh cilantro, chopped
• Lime wedges

Instructions

1. Prepare Oven and Baking Sheet: Preheat the oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Mix Ingredients: Combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, cilantro, green onions, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, fish sauce, lime juice, red curry paste, salt, and black pepper in a large mixing bowl. Mix well.
3. Form Meatballs: Form the mixture into 1 to 1.5 inch diameter meatballs by hand and place them evenly on the baking sheet.
4. Drizzle and Bake: Drizzle vegetable oil over meatballs for browning. Bake for 20-25 minutes until cooked through and golden brown.
5. Serve: Serve the meatballs warm with rice or noodles, and garnish with extra cilantro and lime wedges.