Chicken Teriyaki Meatballs

There’s something truly special about Chicken Teriyaki Meatballs that evokes memories of cozy family dinners and warm gatherings. I remember the first time I made this dish; the aroma filled the kitchen, drawing everyone in like a magnet. The blend of sweet and savory flavors creates an irresistible experience. As I experimented with different ingredients, I realized just how versatile these meatballs can be, making them a staple in my home. Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a festive occasion, Chicken Teriyaki Meatballs always brings a smile to my family’s faces. They’re not just a meal; they’re a reason to come together, share stories, and enjoy each other’s company.

Main Ingredients for Chicken Teriyaki Meatballs

The ingredients for Chicken Teriyaki Meatballs work in harmony to create a deliciously satisfying dish. Fresh and vibrant, each component adds its unique touch, contributing to the overall flavor and texture. The combination of ground chicken, pineapples, and soy sauce delivers a meal that’s both comforting and refreshing.

• 18-ounce can crushed pineapples in juice: The natural sweetness and juiciness of the pineapples infuse the meatballs with a tropical flavor that is hard to resist.
• 1/2 cup low sodium soy sauce: This ingredient provides that essential umami kick, enhancing the overall flavor while keeping the dish lower in sodium.
• 3 tablespoons honey: Adding a touch of honey balances the savory notes, creating a beautiful harmony in every bite.
• 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger: The ginger adds a zesty warmth, elevating the flavor profile and bringing everything together.
• 1 garlic clove, minced: Fresh garlic is the perfect aromatic to amplify the deliciousness of the meatballs.
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch: This helps thicken the sauce, ensuring it clings beautifully to each meatball.
• 1 pound ground chicken: The lean protein base makes these meatballs hearty yet light, ideal for any meal.
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs: Breadcrumbs provide structure and a lovely texture, making the meatballs tender and juicy.
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt: A little salt is essential to enhance all the flavors and bring them to life.

Making This Chicken Teriyaki Meatballs

Creating Chicken Teriyaki Meatballs is a straightforward process that anyone can master. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll be on your way to a delightful meal. The satisfaction of making your own meatballs is truly rewarding.

1. Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This step is crucial for achieving perfectly baked meatballs. You want your oven nice and hot to ensure even cooking.
2. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the crushed pineapples, soy sauce, honey, ginger, and garlic. Whisk these ingredients until well combined, then stir in the cornstarch. Continue to cook, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens, about two minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it starts to bubble slightly. Remove it from the heat and allow it to cool.
3. While the sauce cools, grab a large mixing bowl. Combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, salt, and a quarter cup of the teriyaki sauce you just prepared. Mixing these ingredients by hand can be a bit messy, but it’s the best way to ensure everything is evenly distributed.
4. Now it’s time to shape your meatballs. Using a tablespoon measure or a small ice cream scoop, portion out the mixture and roll it into balls. Aim for uniform size for even cooking. Place the shaped meatballs on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
5. Pop the baking sheet in the oven and bake for twelve to fourteen minutes. Keep an eye on them; they should be golden brown and cooked through. The aroma will fill your kitchen, making it hard to resist.
6. Once cooked, remove the meatballs from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes. This step helps them firm up a bit, making them easier to serve. If you want to take it a step further, drizzle the remaining teriyaki sauce over the meatballs before serving for an extra burst of flavor.
7. Serve your Chicken Teriyaki Meatballs warm, perhaps with steamed rice or a side of fresh veggies. Enjoy them with family and friends, and watch them disappear!

Substitutions and Tips

Here are some tips to help you get the most out of your Chicken Teriyaki Meatballs experience. Let’s make this recipe even better!

• Storage: Leftover meatballs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
• Freezing: To freeze, place uncooked meatballs on a cookie sheet in the freezer for thirty minutes. Once frozen, transfer them to a labeled freezer bag. They can be cooked from frozen, adding five minutes to the cooking time.
• Pairing: Serve with steamed rice or alongside a fresh salad. The contrast balances the savory meatballs beautifully.
• Variations: Feel free to experiment by adding diced vegetables into the meatball mixture for added nutrition.
• Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and tamari instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free alternative.
• Meal prep: These meatballs are great for meal prep! Make a batch ahead of time and enjoy them throughout the week.

Side Dish Ideas for Chicken Teriyaki Meatballs

When serving Chicken Teriyaki Meatballs, the right side dishes can elevate the meal to new heights. Here are some ideas to complement your dish:

• Steamed Jasmine Rice: This classic pairing absorbs the teriyaki sauce beautifully, making every bite a delight.
• Stir-Fried Vegetables: A colorful mix of bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas sautéed in a bit of sesame oil adds a nutritious crunch.
• Asian Slaw: A refreshing slaw made with cabbage, carrots, and a tangy dressing balances the richness of the meatballs.
• Rice Noodles: Light and delicate, rice noodles tossed in a bit of sesame oil and crushed peanuts create a delightful contrast.
• Quinoa Salad: For a protein-packed option, serve your meatballs over a quinoa salad with sliced cucumbers and a sesame dressing.
• Edamame Beans: These provide a fun and nutritious side that pairs well with the flavors of the meatballs.
• Pickled Vegetables: Adding a small bowl of pickled vegetables can introduce a tangy flavor that complements the sweetness of the sauce.

FAQ

Conclusion

In conclusion, Chicken Teriyaki Meatballs bring an exciting blend of flavors that can easily become a staple in your kitchen. Their versatility and ease of preparation make them perfect for any occasion. I encourage you to give this recipe a try and see how it can add a delightful twist to your meals.

Chicken Teriyaki Meatballs

The ultimate comfort food, Chicken Teriyaki Meatballs are sweet, savory, and full of flavor. Perfect for an easy weeknight dinner, these meatballs will satisfy your cravings and quickly become a family favorite. Make them tonight!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 14 minutes mins

Total Time 19 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Asian

Calories: 280

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 18 ounce Crushed pineapples in juice
• 1/2 cup Low sodium soy sauce
• 3 tablespoons Honey
• 1 teaspoon Freshly grated ginger
• 1 clove Garlic minced
• 1 teaspoon Cornstarch
• 1 pound Ground chicken
• 1/4 cup Breadcrumbs
• 1 teaspoon Kosher salt

Equipment

• Frying pan
• Grater
• Wooden Spoon
• Oven
• Whisk
• Mixing Bowl
• Baking Sheet

Method

 

1. Preheat oven to 350F.
2. In a small saucepan over medium heat, whisk together the pineapples, soy sauce, honey, ginger, and garlic. Whisk in the cornstarch and cook, stirring constantly, until thick, about 2 minutes. Allow mixture to cool.
3. Place the chicken, breadcrumbs, salt, and 1/4 cup of the teriyaki sauce in a bowl and mix until well combined.
4. Using a 1 tablespoon measure or small ice cream scoop, shape the mixture into balls.
5. Place the meatballs on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 12 to 14 minutes, until cooked through.
6. Serve with the extra teriyaki sauce for dipping.

Notes

• To Freeze: Place uncooked meatballs on a cookie sheet in the freezer for 30 minutes, then transfer to a labeled freezer bag. Defrost in the fridge overnight and continue cooking as directed above in step 5. Alternately, bake the meatballs directly from frozen, adding 5 minutes to the cooking time.

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Meet Paige Wilson

I’m our photographer and stylist, so it’s my job to make our food look as sunny and delicious as it tastes. I’m obsessed with finding that perfect light. When I’m not behind the lens, I’m in the kitchen as the official “chief taster.” I work closely with Hailey and Brooke to cook, test, and refine the flavors for every single recipe until it’s just right.