Sweet Chili Glazed Meatballs

$- 1 pound ground chicken (or you may substitute with turkey or beef) - 1/2 cup seasoned breadcrumbs - 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese - 1/4 cup freshly chopped cilantro - 2 cloves garlic, finely minced - 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated - 1 large egg, beaten - Salt and black pepper, to taste The main ingredients create a rich base for your meatballs. Ground chicken offers a lean option, while turkey or beef can add different flavors. The seasoned breadcrumbs help the meatballs hold together. Parmesan cheese adds a nice salty kick, while cilantro gives a fresh taste. Garlic and ginger bring warmth and depth. The egg acts as a binder, ensuring your meatballs stay moist. - 1/2 cup sweet chili sauce - 2 tablespoons soy sauce - 1 tablespoon rice vinegar - 1 tablespoon sesame oil The sauce is the star of this dish. Sweet chili sauce gives a balance of sweetness and spice. Soy sauce adds umami, enhancing all flavors. Rice vinegar adds a tangy note, while sesame oil brings a nutty richness. Mixing these together creates the perfect glaze. - Sesame seeds, for garnish - Sliced green onions, for garnish Garnishing adds a lovely touch. Sesame seeds give a nice crunch, and sliced green onions add freshness. These simple toppings make your dish visually appealing and enhance the flavor. {{ingredient_image_2}} - Set oven temperature to 400°F (200°C) - Prepare baking sheet with parchment paper Start by preheating your oven. This step helps the meatballs cook evenly. While the oven heats up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will make cleanup easy later. - Combine all ingredients in a mixing bowl - Ensure mixture is well incorporated In a large bowl, mix the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, and chopped cilantro. Add minced garlic, grated ginger, and the beaten egg. Don't forget to sprinkle in some salt and pepper. Use your hands or a spatula to blend everything well. This step is key for flavor. - Shape mixture into uniform 1-inch meatballs - Bake for 20 minutes until golden brown Now, shape the mixture into uniform 1-inch meatballs. Keeping them the same size helps them cook evenly. Place the meatballs on your prepared baking sheet, spaced out so they don’t touch. Bake them for about 20 minutes. You want them golden brown and cooked through. - Whisk together sauce ingredients in a bowl - Coat baked meatballs with sauce in skillet While the meatballs bake, whisk together the sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil in a bowl. This sauce is where the magic happens! Once the meatballs are done, transfer them to a skillet over medium heat. Pour the prepared sauce over the meatballs. Gently toss to coat them all. Cook for another 5 to 7 minutes. The sauce will thicken, making the meatballs shine. To make great meatballs, size matters. Keep them uniform at about 1 inch. This size helps them cook evenly. A meat thermometer is your best friend. Check for doneness at 165°F (75°C). This ensures they are safe to eat and juicy too. Want to kick up the flavor? Try adding spices like paprika or cumin. A little goes a long way! You can also adjust the sweetness of your sauce. Add more sweet chili sauce if you like it sweeter, or reduce it for a tangy taste. These meatballs shine when served with rice or noodles. They make a complete meal that everyone will love. You can also serve them as a snack or appetizer at parties. Just place toothpicks in each meatball for easy eating! Pro Tips Chill the Mixture: Refrigerating the meatball mixture for about 30 minutes before forming them helps the flavors meld together and makes them easier to shape. Uniform Size: Using a cookie scoop or measuring spoon can help ensure all meatballs are the same size, which promotes even cooking. Alternate Cooking Methods: If you prefer, these meatballs can also be pan-fried for a crispy exterior or grilled for a smoky flavor. Customize the Sauce: Feel free to adjust the sweet chili sauce with additional spices like sriracha or garlic powder for a kick of heat. {{image_4}} You can use different meats. Ground turkey or beef works well. If you prefer a lighter option, try ground chicken. For those who want a plant-based meal, use lentils or chickpeas. These options fit any diet. To add heat, mix in chili paste. This spicy version gives the meatballs a kick. If you like sweet and sour flavors, add pineapple juice to the sauce. It adds a bright twist that kids will love! For gluten-free meatballs, use gluten-free breadcrumbs. This simple swap keeps the dish tasty. If you’re vegan, replace the meat with a plant-based option. Use a flax egg instead of a regular egg. These changes let everyone enjoy the dish. After enjoying your sweet chili glazed meatballs, store leftovers in an airtight container. This keeps them fresh and tasty. In the fridge, they last for about three to four days. Always check for any signs of spoilage before eating. To freeze cooked meatballs, let them cool completely. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Be sure to remove as much air as possible. Frozen meatballs can last up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw them in the fridge overnight. You can reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes or until hot. Preparing meatballs in advance is simple and smart. You can mix and shape them ahead of time. Keep them in the fridge for a quick weeknight meal. Another option is to bake a large batch and freeze some. This way, you can enjoy them on busy days. Pair them with rice, noodles, or veggies for a complete meal. You can serve sweet chili glazed meatballs with many tasty sides. Here are some great options: - Steamed jasmine rice - Noodles tossed in sesame oil - Fresh vegetable stir-fry - Crisp salad with a light dressing - Roasted broccoli or green beans These sides balance the sweet and spicy flavors of the meatballs. To keep your meatballs moist, follow these tips: - Use ground chicken or turkey with higher fat content. - Add breadcrumbs soaked in a little water or broth. - Mix the meat gently; overmixing can make them tough. - Do not overcook the meatballs; check with a meat thermometer. These steps help lock in moisture and flavor. Yes, you can make sweet chili glazed meatballs ahead of time. Here’s how: - Prepare the meatball mixture and shape the meatballs. - Store raw meatballs in the fridge for up to 24 hours. - You can also freeze them for up to 3 months. - Cook and glaze them when you’re ready to eat. When reheating, ensure they reach 165°F for safety. These sweet chili glazed meatballs are easy to make and tasty. We covered the main ingredients, mixing methods, and baking steps. You can choose from various meat options and sauces to fit your taste. Remember to store any leftovers properly and use them in meal prep. With these tips and tricks, you can create a delightful dish for any occasion. Enjoy experimenting with flavors and serving suggestions to make it your own!$

Sweet Chili Glazed Meatballs

Delicious meatballs coated in a sweet and spicy chili glaze.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 30

Total Time 45

Course Main Course

Cuisine Asian

Servings 4

Calories 250 kcal

Ingredients

1 pound ground chicken
0.5 cup seasoned breadcrumbs
0.25 cup grated Parmesan cheese
0.25 cup freshly chopped cilantro
2 cloves garlic, finely minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
1 large egg, beaten
to taste Salt and black pepper
0.5 cup sweet chili sauce
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 tablespoon sesame oil
for garnish Sesame seeds
for garnish Sliced green onions

Instructions

Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, chopped cilantro, minced garlic, grated ginger, beaten egg, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Use your hands or a spatula to blend the mixture thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
Using your hands, shape the mixture into 1-inch meatballs, ensuring they are uniform in size for even cooking. Place the meatballs evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet.
Transfer the baking sheet to the oven and bake for approximately 20 minutes, or until the meatballs are golden brown and cooked through, ensuring an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
While the meatballs are baking, take a small mixing bowl and whisk together the sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil until well combined.
After baking, carefully remove the meatballs from the oven and transfer them to a large skillet over medium heat. Pour the prepared sauce over the meatballs and gently toss to coat each meatball evenly. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and glaze the meatballs beautifully.
Once the meatballs are coated and heated through, remove the skillet from heat. Garnish the dish with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and sliced green onions for a fresh touch. Serve warm and enjoy your flavorful meatballs!

Notes

You can substitute ground chicken with turkey or beef.

Keyword appetizer, chicken, meatballs, sweet chili