Description
These Coconut Chicken Meatballs are tender, juicy, and bursting with tropical flavors. Simmered in a rich, creamy coconut sauce with a hint of spice, they make a perfect weeknight dinner served over rice or noodles.
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Ingredients
Scale
For the Meatballs
- 1 lb ground chicken
- ¼ cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 green onion, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil (for frying)
For the Coconut Sauce
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
- 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk (full-fat for extra creaminess)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon curry powder (or turmeric for a mild flavor)
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon honey (optional, for a touch of sweetness)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Make the Meatballs
- In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, ginger, salt, black pepper, paprika, soy sauce, and green onion.
- Mix until just combined, then shape into small meatballs (about 1 inch in diameter).
- Heat coconut oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sear the meatballs for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown. Transfer to a plate.
Alternative Baking Method:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place meatballs on a lined baking sheet and bake for 15–18 minutes until fully cooked.
Step 2: Prepare the Coconut Sauce
- In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon coconut oil and sauté the onion until softened (about 3 minutes).
- Stir in garlic and ginger, cooking for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in coconut milk, soy sauce, curry powder, and red pepper flakes. Stir well and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Add lime juice and honey, stirring to combine.
Step 3: Simmer the Meatballs
- Return the meatballs to the skillet, coating them in the coconut sauce.
- Simmer for 5–7 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and the meatballs are fully cooked.
Step 4: Serve & Enjoy
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve over steamed rice, noodles, or sautéed vegetables.
- Enjoy warm with extra lime wedges on the side!
Notes
- Don’t Overmix – Overworking the meat mixture can make the meatballs dense.
- Use Wet Hands – To prevent sticking when shaping the meatballs.
- Full-Fat Coconut Milk – Provides the creamiest, most flavorful sauce.
- Adjust Spice Level – Add more red pepper flakes for extra heat.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired