For a quick and flavorful dish, these Easy Thai Baked Chicken Meatballs are a must-try! They bring together the aromatic and vibrant ingredients typical of Thai cuisine, such as ginger, lemongrass, cilantro, and sweet chili sauce. These meatballs are perfect for an easy weeknight dinner or as a party appetizer. With a balance of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors, they pair well with rice, noodles, or fresh vegetables. Best of all, they’re baked, making them a healthier alternative to traditional fried meatballs!
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 2 green onions, finely minced
- 1 large egg
- ½ lime, zested
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon minced fresh cilantro
- 1 tablespoon grated ginger
- 1 tablespoon grated lemongrass
- 1 tablespoon grated garlic
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ cup sweet chili sauce
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Meatball Mixture
- In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, finely minced green onions, egg, lime zest, panko breadcrumbs, cilantro, ginger, lemongrass, garlic, and kosher salt.
- Using your hands or a spoon, gently mix the ingredients until everything is well incorporated, being careful not to overwork the mixture to avoid tough meatballs.
Step 3: Form the Meatballs
- Using a tablespoon or small scoop, form the mixture into meatballs, about 1 to 1 ½ inches in diameter.
- Place the meatballs onto the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced evenly apart.
Step 4: Bake the Meatballs
- Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
Step 5: Glaze with Sweet Chili Sauce
- Once the meatballs are baked, remove them from the oven and brush them with the sweet chili sauce. For extra flavor, you can toss the meatballs in the sauce to coat them completely.
- Return the glazed meatballs to the oven and bake for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to set and become slightly caramelized.
Step 6: Serve
- Remove the meatballs from the oven and let them cool slightly.
- Serve warm with extra sweet chili sauce for dipping, or alongside rice, noodles, or a fresh vegetable salad.
Conclusion
These Easy Thai Baked Chicken Meatballs are packed with the bold flavors of Thai cuisine, thanks to ingredients like lemongrass, ginger, and cilantro. The sweet chili glaze adds a perfect hint of sweetness and spice, making these meatballs irresistible. Baked to golden perfection, they are both healthier and easier to prepare than traditional fried meatballs. Whether you’re serving them as a main course or appetizer, these meatballs are sure to impress with their taste and simplicity!