Teriyaki Chicken Meatballs

Teriyaki Chicken Meatballs

There’s something incredibly satisfying about a plate of Teriyaki Chicken Meatballs. I remember the first time I tried them; it was at a friend’s gathering, and the sweet, savory aroma wafted through the air. I couldn’t resist going back for seconds. The combination of juicy chicken, flavorful seasonings, and that luscious teriyaki sauce melds together in a way that makes each bite a mini celebration. Whether you’re hosting a party or just looking for a quick weeknight meal, these meatballs are sure to impress. They’re perfect for dipping, adding to a rice bowl, or simply snacking on their own. Plus, they’re easy enough to whip up after a long day. Once you try making your own Teriyaki Chicken Meatballs, you’ll never want to go back to store-bought. It’s a true kitchen triumph!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
32 mins
Prep Time:
10 mins
Cook Time:
22 mins
Difficulty:
Medium
Calories:
230 kcal
Protein:
20 g
Diet:
Low FODMAP
Fat:
10 g
Tools Used:
Baking Sheet, Mixing Bowl

What Makes This Teriyaki Chicken Meatballs Special

They’re Incredibly Versatile

One of the things I love most about these Teriyaki Chicken Meatballs is their versatility. You can serve them as an appetizer, a main dish, or even toss them into a stir-fry. They pair wonderfully with a variety of sides, making them perfect for any occasion.

Kid-Friendly and Healthy

These meatballs are not only a hit with adults but are also kid-friendly! The sweet teriyaki glaze is usually a crowd-pleaser for little ones, and you can sneak in healthy ingredients like shredded carrots without them even noticing.

Make-Ahead Meal

They’re a fantastic make-ahead option. You can prepare them in advance and store them in the fridge or freezer. When it’s time to eat, just reheat and enjoy. This is a lifesaver for busy weeknights when you don’t have time to cook from scratch.

A Crowd-Pleaser

Whenever I bring these to a potluck or family gathering, they disappear almost instantly. Everyone loves the sticky glaze and the tender chicken, making them a guaranteed hit. You’ll be the star of your next gathering with these on the table!

Perfect for Meal Prep

These meatballs hold up wonderfully for meal prep. Cook a big batch on the weekend, and you’ll have delicious meals ready to go for the week ahead. Pair them with rice or veggies, and you have healthy, balanced meals in no time.

What You Need for Teriyaki Chicken Meatballs

Teriyaki Chicken Meatballs

When crafting these Teriyaki Chicken Meatballs, it’s crucial to use fresh, quality ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in enhancing the overall flavor and texture. The combination of ground chicken, bread crumbs, and teriyaki sauce creates a harmonious blend that brings the dish to life. Let’s dive into the essential ingredients you’ll need!

  • 1 pound ground chicken
  • ½ cup plain bread crumbs
  • ½ cup shredded carrots (optional)
  • 1 egg
  • ½ teaspoon ground ginger
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon reduced-sodium soy sauce
  • ½ cup teriyaki sauce

Directions for Teriyaki Chicken Meatballs

Teriyaki Chicken Meatballs

Making Teriyaki Chicken Meatballs is straightforward and enjoyable. Follow these steps for perfectly tender meatballs that burst with flavor. Don’t rush—each step builds the taste, so take your time and enjoy the process!

  1. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F. Line a rimmed baking sheet with foil and coat it with nonstick spray. This ensures easy cleanup and prevents the meatballs from sticking.
  2. In a medium bowl, combine the ground chicken, plain bread crumbs, optional shredded carrots, egg, ground ginger, garlic powder, and reduced-sodium soy sauce. Using clean hands, mix the ingredients thoroughly until combined. Be gentle; overmixing can lead to tough meatballs.
  3. Using a tablespoon measuring spoon, scoop out the mixture and roll it into balls about two tablespoons in size. Place the meatballs on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between them for even cooking.
  4. Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 22 to 24 minutes, or until the meatballs are golden brown and cooked through. You can check doneness by cutting one in half; it should be fully cooked with no pink inside.
  5. If you prefer smaller meatballs, you can make one-tablespoon-sized balls. For these, bake for about 20 to 22 minutes. Alternatively, if you want to try an air fryer, set it to 375 degrees F and cook for 12 to 14 minutes.
  6. Once cooked, remove the meatballs from the oven and toss them with the teriyaki sauce while they’re still warm. This adds that delicious glaze that makes these meatballs irresistible!
  7. Serve immediately while warm, or allow them to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container if you plan to enjoy them later.
  8. If you’re saving some for later, let them cool fully before placing them in the fridge, where they can last for up to five days, or freeze in a freezer bag for up to six months.
  9. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in a pan with some teriyaki sauce, or microwave in short increments until warm.

Things Worth Knowing

  • Ingredient Freshness: Always use fresh ground chicken for the best flavor and texture. Check expiration dates when buying.
  • Size Matters: The size of your meatballs affects cooking time. Consistently sized meatballs ensure even cooking.
  • Don’t Skip the Sauce: Tossing the meatballs in teriyaki sauce after baking enhances the flavor significantly. Don’t hesitate to drench them!
  • Experiment with Spice: Feel free to add a touch of chili flakes or sesame oil for an extra flavor kick.

Tips and Variations

Teriyaki Chicken Meatballs

These Teriyaki Chicken Meatballs are fantastic, but there are plenty of ways to tweak them for your taste. Here are some suggestions to make them your own!

  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days to maintain freshness.
  • Freezing: These meatballs freeze well! Place them in a freezer bag after they’ve cooled and they’ll last for six months.
  • Pairing: Serve with steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal. They also work great in a stir-fry.
  • Spicy Twist: Add some sriracha or chili garlic sauce to the mixture for an added kick if you enjoy heat.
  • Nutrition Boost: Incorporate finely chopped spinach or zucchini into the meatball mixture for added nutrition.

What to Serve With Teriyaki Chicken Meatballs

Considering how delicious Teriyaki Chicken Meatballs are, you’ll want to think about your serving options. Here are some great ideas for side dishes and pairings:

  • Steamed Jasmine Rice: This classic pairing absorbs the sweet and tangy teriyaki sauce beautifully.
  • Stir-Fried Vegetables: Enhance your meal with a colorful mix of stir-fried bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots.
  • Rice Noodles: Light and flexible, rice noodles provide a great base for these meatballs.
  • Salad: A crisp green salad tossed with a sesame dressing offers a fresh contrast to the warm meatballs.
  • Appetizer Platter: Serve them as part of an appetizer spread with dipping sauces for a party or gathering.
  • Perfect for Lunchboxes: These meatballs make an excellent protein option for school lunches, paired with rice or veggies.

FAQ

Absolutely! These meatballs are perfect for meal prep. You can prepare them a day or two in advance, store them in the fridge, and simply reheat when you’re ready to serve. They also freeze well, so feel free to make a big batch and keep them in the freezer for quick meals later on!

You have plenty of options! Serve these meatballs over steamed rice or noodles, alongside stir-fried vegetables, or even in a fresh salad with a sesame dressing. They’re versatile enough to complement a variety of side dishes, making them perfect for any occasion!

Yes, you can! Ground turkey is a great substitute and will still yield delicious meatballs. Just keep in mind that the flavor may vary slightly. Seasoning will help enhance the taste and make it just as enjoyable.

To make these meatballs gluten-free, simply use gluten-free breadcrumbs and tamari sauce instead of regular soy sauce. This way, you can enjoy the same delightful flavors without any gluten concerns. Always check product labels to ensure they meet your dietary needs.

Conclusion

These Teriyaki Chicken Meatballs are a delightful treat, combining savory flavors and tender texture that everyone will love. They’re not just easy to make but also incredibly versatile for any occasion. I encourage you to try your hand at this recipe; it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy the satisfaction of making a dish that brings smiles and happy bellies around your table!

Teriyaki Chicken Meatballs

Teriyaki Chicken Meatballs

The ultimate comfort food, Teriyaki Chicken Meatballs are juicy, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion. A delicious blend of ground chicken and savory sauce makes them a crowd-pleaser. Try these easy weeknight dinner meatballs tonight!
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 22 minutes
Total Time 32 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Asian
Calories: 230

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound ground chicken
  • ½ cup plain bread crumbs
  • ½ cup shredded carrots (optional)
  • 1 unit egg
  • ½ teaspoon ground ginger
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon reduced-sodium soy sauce
  • ½ cup teriyaki sauce

Equipment

  • Baking Sheet
  • Mixing Bowl

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F. Line a rimmed baking sheet with foil and coat it with nonstick spray. This ensures easy cleanup and prevents the meatballs from sticking.
  2. In a medium bowl, combine the ground chicken, plain bread crumbs, optional shredded carrots, egg, ground ginger, garlic powder, and reduced-sodium soy sauce. Using clean hands, mix the ingredients thoroughly until combined. Be gentle; overmixing can lead to tough meatballs.
  3. Using a tablespoon measuring spoon, scoop out the mixture and roll it into balls about two tablespoons in size. Place the meatballs on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between them for even cooking.
  4. Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 22 to 24 minutes, or until the meatballs are golden brown and cooked through. You can check doneness by cutting one in half; it should be fully cooked with no pink inside.
  5. If you prefer smaller meatballs, you can make one-tablespoon-sized balls. For these, bake for about 20 to 22 minutes. Alternatively, if you want to try an air fryer, set it to 375 degrees F and cook for 12 to 14 minutes.
  6. Once cooked, remove the meatballs from the oven and toss them with the teriyaki sauce while they’re still warm. This adds that delicious glaze that makes these meatballs irresistible!
  7. Serve immediately while warm, or allow them to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container if you plan to enjoy them later.
  8. If you're saving some for later, let them cool fully before placing them in the fridge, where they can last for up to five days, or freeze in a freezer bag for up to six months.
  9. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in a pan with some teriyaki sauce, or microwave in short increments until warm.

Notes

  • Tip 1: Let them cool fully and store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days.
  • Tip 2: Or freeze in a freezer bag for up to six months.
  • Tip 3: Thaw overnight in the fridge, simmer in teriyaki sauce to warm, or warm in 15- to 30-second increments in the microwave.
  • Tip 4: Use jarred teriyaki sauce for serving or try a homemade option.
  • Tip 5: Gluten-free: Use gluten-free bread crumbs and gluten-free tamari and teriyaki sauce if needed.
  • Tip 6: Egg-free: Omit the egg and add 1 tablespoon milk.

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