These Easy Thai Baked Chicken Meatballs are juicy and packed with flavor! With ingredients like ground chicken, fresh herbs, and yummy spices, they are sure to please everyone.
What’s great is they bake in the oven, so no frying mess to deal with! I love serving them with a side of rice and a tasty dipping sauce. It’s like a little party on your plate! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Chicken: This is the main protein in the recipe. If you can’t find ground chicken, ground turkey works as a nice substitute and has a similar texture.
Cilantro and Basil: Fresh herbs brighten up the meatballs. If you’re not a fan of cilantro, parsley can be a good swap. For those who don’t have Thai basil, regular basil will still add great flavor.
Fish Sauce: This adds a deep umami flavor. If you want a non-fish option, try soy sauce or tamari (for gluten-free) instead, but keep in mind the flavor will differ a bit.
Panko Breadcrumbs: They give the meatballs a nice texture. If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs can work in a pinch, but they may make the meatballs denser.
How Do You Ensure the Meatballs are Moist and Flavorful?
Mixing and forming meatballs can be tricky! Here’s how to keep them juicy and full of flavor:
- Combine all ingredients just until mixed. Overmixing can lead to tough meatballs. You want them tender!
- Use a light touch when forming the meatballs. This keeps them airy and helps them cook evenly.
- If you have time, let the formed meatballs sit in the fridge for about 30 minutes before baking. This helps them hold their shape better.
Bake until they’re golden brown but be careful not to overcook; meatballs should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Easy Thai Baked Chicken Meatballs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) ground chicken
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small shallot, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped (Thai basil if available)
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon red chili flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: sliced green onions and sesame seeds for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 20 minutes to bake. Total time is around 35 minutes. You’ll enjoy a delicious meal without much fuss!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or give it a light grease to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, minced garlic, chopped shallot, cilantro, basil, fish sauce, soy sauce, sesame oil, grated ginger, and red chili flakes. Add the panko breadcrumbs and the egg. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix everything together gently until it is just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the meatballs tender!
3. Form the Meatballs:
Using your hands or a spoon, scoop out the mixture and form it into small meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Place them evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Bake the Meatballs:
Pop the meatballs in the preheated oven and bake for about 18-20 minutes, or until they are cooked through and lightly browned. If you like them a little crispier, you can broil them for 1-2 minutes at the end, just keep an eye on them to avoid burning!
5. Garnish and Serve:
Once baked, take them out of the oven and if you’d like, sprinkle some sliced green onions and sesame seeds on top for extra flavor and a nice touch. Serve the meatballs warm with a tasty dipping sauce like sweet chili sauce or a spicy peanut sauce. They are also great alongside some steamed rice or noodles.
Enjoy your flavorful and easy Thai baked chicken meatballs!
FAQ for Easy Thai Baked Chicken Meatballs
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitution for ground chicken and will still yield flavorful meatballs. Just keep in mind that the texture might be slightly different, but they will still be delicious!
What Should I Serve with These Meatballs?
These meatballs pair wonderfully with steamed rice or noodles. You can also serve them with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. Don’t forget a dipping sauce like sweet chili or spicy peanut sauce for extra flavor!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the microwave or oven until warmed through. They also freeze well, so feel free to freeze them for up to 3 months!
Can I Make These Meatballs Gluten-Free?
Yes! To make them gluten-free, use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs and ensure that your soy sauce is gluten-free (look for tamari as a great alternative). Enjoy your gluten-free Thai meatballs!
