Asian Chicken Meatballs Recipe

Sizzling Asian Chicken Meatballs Recipe for Dinner Tonight

Crafting these delectable Asian chicken meatballs brings culinary magic right into your kitchen.

Succulent and aromatic spices dance through each perfectly seasoned bite.

Tender ground chicken combines with vibrant herbs and zesty seasonings.

Fragrant ginger and garlic create an irresistible flavor profile that sparks excitement.

Weeknight dinners suddenly become extraordinary when these delightful morsels appear on your plate.

Simple ingredients merge into a spectacular dish that will make everyone lean forward with anticipation.

Let’s embark on this mouthwatering adventure together and transform an ordinary meal into something extraordinary.

Why Asian Chicken Meatballs Pack So Much Flavor

  • Enjoy these meatballs as a protein-packed appetizer, main course, or party snack that appeals to both kids and adults.
  • Lean ground chicken creates a lighter alternative to traditional beef meatballs, packed with flavorful Asian-inspired seasonings that make every bite exciting.
  • Bake these meatballs effortlessly in the oven, eliminating the need for constant stovetop monitoring and making cleanup a breeze.

Ingredients for Flavorful Asian Chicken Meatballs

Protein Base:
  • Ground Chicken: Lean meat that provides the main structure and protein for the meatballs.
Flavor Enhancers:
  • Ginger, Garlic: Fresh aromatics that add depth and traditional Asian flavor to the meatballs.
  • Green Onions: Provides a mild onion flavor and fresh, bright note to the mixture.
Binding and Texture Ingredients:
  • Panko Breadcrumbs: Light and crispy Japanese-style breadcrumbs that help bind the meatballs and create a tender texture.
  • Egg: Acts as a binding agent to hold the meatballs together and provide moisture.
Sauce Ingredients:
  • Soy Sauce: Adds a rich, salty umami flavor to the glaze.
  • Honey: Provides sweetness and helps create a glossy finish for the meatballs.
  • Sesame Oil: Contributes a nutty, authentic Asian flavor to the sauce.

Steps to Make Tasty Asian Chicken Meatballs

Step 1: Prepare Baking Station

Crank up your oven to a toasty 400F (200C).

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup and perfect meatball release.

Step 2: Mix Flavor-Packed Ingredients

Grab a spacious mixing bowl and combine these delectable components:
  • Ground chicken
  • Freshly grated ginger
  • Minced garlic
  • Chopped green onions
  • Panko breadcrumbs
  • Beaten egg

Use your hands to blend everything until the mixture feels cohesive and well-integrated.

Step 3: Shape Delightful Morsels

Roll the mixture into uniform balls, roughly the size of a golf ball.

Arrange them carefully on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a bit of space between each sphere.

Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection

Slide the baking sheet into the preheated oven.

Let the meatballs cook for 20-25 minutes, transforming into beautiful golden-brown delights.

They should look crispy on the outside and feel firm when touched.

Step 5: Whip Up Savory Glaze

In a small saucepan, combine:
  • Soy sauce
  • Honey
  • Sesame oil

Heat the mixture over medium flame, stirring until it reaches a gentle simmer and develops a glossy appearance.

Step 6: Dress and Serve

Generously drizzle the luscious sauce over the freshly baked meatballs.

Plate immediately and watch everyone’s eyes light up with anticipation of these mouthwatering morsels.

Meatball Pro Tips for Juicy, Savory Results

  • Add an extra egg or a bit of cornstarch to help meatballs hold together perfectly during mixing and baking.
  • Don't overmix the chicken mixture to keep meatballs tender and juicy; mix just until ingredients are combined.
  • For extra crispiness, broil meatballs for 2-3 minutes after baking to achieve golden brown edges.
  • Swap panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour to make the recipe celiac-friendly.
  • Toast sesame seeds or add a splash of rice vinegar to the sauce for a more complex and vibrant taste profile.

The Right Way to Store & Reheat Chicken Meatballs

  • Place cooled meatballs in an airtight container, cover tightly, and store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
  • Wrap meatballs individually in plastic wrap, transfer to a freezer-safe bag, and freeze for up to 2 months.
  • Arrange meatballs on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through.
  • Spread meatballs on a baking sheet, cover with foil, and warm at 350F for 10-15 minutes, ensuring they remain moist and heated evenly.

Pairing Suggestions for Asian Chicken Meatballs

  • Pair with Crisp Riesling: Balance the savory Asian chicken meatballs with a slightly sweet, acidic white wine that cuts through the rich flavors and complements the ginger and soy sauce notes.
  • Serve with Jasmine Rice Pilaf: Create a perfect base for the meatballs by preparing a light, fragrant jasmine rice pilaf that absorbs the delicious sauce and provides a soft texture contrast.
  • Garnish with Quick Pickled Cucumber: Add a tangy, refreshing side of thinly sliced cucumbers quickly pickled in rice vinegar to provide a cool, crisp counterpoint to the warm, flavorful meatballs.
  • Match with Sesame Roasted Vegetables: Enhance the meal with a side of roasted vegetables like bok choy or broccoli, lightly seasoned with sesame seeds to echo the sesame oil in the meatball sauce.

Fun Variations for Asian Chicken Meatballs

  • Gluten-Free Option: Replace panko breadcrumbs with almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs, ensuring the same binding texture while accommodating wheat-sensitive diets.
  • Vegetarian Transformation
  • Low-Carb Alternative: Skip breadcrumbs entirely and use finely chopped cauliflower rice or crushed pork rinds as a binding agent, reducing carbohydrate content while keeping meatballs tender.
  • Spicy Version: Add sriracha or red pepper flakes to the meat mixture and sauce for extra heat, creating a zesty kick that elevates the original recipe's flavor complexity.

FAQs

  • Are these meatballs healthy?

Yes, these Asian chicken meatballs are a lean protein option with less fat compared to beef meatballs. They’re packed with fresh ingredients like ginger and green onions, making them a nutritious meal choice.

  • Can I make these meatballs spicy?

Absolutely! Add some sriracha sauce, red pepper flakes, or diced jalapeños to the meat mixture if you want extra heat. Adjust the amount based on your spice tolerance.

  • Is this recipe gluten-free?

Not as written. The panko breadcrumbs contain gluten. To make it gluten-free, substitute with gluten-free breadcrumbs or ground almond flour to help bind the meatballs.

  • Can I prepare these meatballs in advance?

Yes, you can mix and shape the meatballs ahead of time. Store them covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes meal prep easier and more convenient.

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Asian Chicken Meatballs Recipe

Asian Chicken Meatballs Recipe


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4.8 from 37 reviews

  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Succulent Asian chicken meatballs dance with bold flavors, combining tender ground chicken and zesty seasonings. Delicate spices and a glossy glaze make this dish a perfect centerpiece for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings, promising a delightful culinary experience you’ll savor.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Protein:

  • 1 pound (454 grams) ground chicken

Aromatics and Herbs:

  • 2 tablespoons fresh ginger, grated
  • 3 green onions, chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced

Binding and Seasoning Ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 egg
  • 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil

Instructions

  1. Prepare an oven-safe tray with parchment paper and heat the oven to 400F (200C) for optimal cooking environment.
  2. Blend ground chicken with finely minced ginger, crushed garlic, chopped green onions, panko breadcrumbs, and whisked egg in a spacious mixing bowl until ingredients form a cohesive mixture.
  3. Craft uniform meatballs using gentle rolling techniques, ensuring each sphere is approximately golf ball size for consistent cooking.
  4. Arrange meatballs evenly on prepared baking sheet, maintaining slight separation to promote even heat circulation.
  5. Roast in preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, monitoring until exterior turns golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165F for food safety.
  6. While meatballs cook, create a glossy glaze by combining soy sauce, honey, and sesame oil in a small saucepan over medium heat, stirring until ingredients meld and slightly thicken.
  7. Once meatballs complete cooking, remove from oven and generously drizzle with prepared sauce, ensuring each meatball receives an even coating for maximum flavor absorption.
  8. Serve immediately, garnishing with additional chopped green onions for fresh visual appeal and complementary taste.

Notes

  • Gluten-Free Adaptation: Swap panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives like almond flour or crushed rice crackers to make the recipe celiac-friendly.
  • Moisture Magic: Add a splash of chicken broth or grated zucchini to prevent dry meatballs and ensure a juicy, tender texture.
  • Spice Level Control: Customize heat by incorporating sriracha, red pepper flakes, or finely chopped chili peppers directly into the meat mixture for those who enjoy extra kick.
  • Make-Ahead Strategy: Prepare meatballs in advance and freeze uncooked; they’ll maintain perfect shape and flavor when baked straight from frozen state, saving precious cooking time.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Dinner, Appetizer, Snacks
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Asian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 250
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 300mg
  • Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 20g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 22g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg
Clara Thompson

Clara Thompson

Recipe Developer & Food Educator

Expertise

Plant-based and vegetarian recipe development, Nutritional analysis and meal planning, Culinary education and workshop facilitation, Content writing with a focus on healthy living​

Education

Diploma in Culinary Arts, Mt. San Jacinto College, CA
Focus: Comprehensive culinary training with an emphasis on sustainable cooking practices.

Certificate in Nutrition and Healthy Living, Cornell University (Online Program)
Focus: Understanding the principles of nutrition to create balanced and health-conscious recipes.


Clara lives where fresh ideas and fresh ingredients meet. She pairs her culinary know-how with her passion for healthy, planet-friendly cooking.
For Clara, good food should taste great, nourish your body, and feel easy to make. Her recipes highlight whole foods, colorful produce, and a deep respect for seasonal eating.

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