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Thai Chicken Meatballs

Thai Chicken Meatballs in Coconut Curry for Ultimate Comfort

Enjoy the delightful Thai Chicken Meatballs in a rich coconut curry for a comforting meal experience.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 meatballs
Course: Chicken
Cuisine: Thai
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

For the Meatballs
  • 1 lb Ground Chicken Ground turkey works as a great substitute.
  • 1 cup Panko Breadcrumbs Use regular breadcrumbs if you don’t have panko.
  • 1 large Egg Substitute with flaxseed meal for a vegan option.
  • 3 cloves Garlic (minced) Feel free to add more for an extra kick.
  • 1 tbsp Fresh Ginger (grated) Ground ginger can work in a pinch.
  • 2 tbsp Soy Sauce Swap with tamari for a gluten-free choice.
  • 1 tbsp Fish Sauce Replace with more soy sauce if needed.
  • 1 tsp Salt Adjust according to your taste preferences.
  • 1 tsp Black Pepper Essential for seasoning.
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Cilantro (chopped) Adds a fresh touch for the meatballs.
  • 1/4 cup Green Onions (chopped) Adds a fresh touch for the meatballs.
For the Sauce
  • 1 tbsp Vegetable Oil Coconut oil lends a lovely flavor too.
  • 1 medium Onion (finely chopped) Builds the flavor base for the sauce.
  • 2 tbsp Red Curry Paste The star ingredient for a bold taste.
  • 1 tsp Turmeric Powder Adds vibrant color and earthy flavor.
  • 1 can Coconut Milk Creates a luxuriously creamy sauce.
  • 1 cup Chicken Broth Vegetable broth can be used for a vegetarian version.
  • 1 tbsp Brown Sugar Balances the flavors beautifully.
  • 2 tbsp Lime Juice Swap with lemon juice in a pinch.
For the Veggies
  • 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes Infuse color and nutrition.
  • 1 medium Bell Pepper Infuse color and nutrition.
  • 1 cup Carrots Feel free to substitute with your favorite veggies.
For Garnishing
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Basil Sprinkle on top for a fresh finish.
  • 1/4 cup Additional Cilantro Sprinkle on top for a fresh finish.

Equipment

  • mixing bowl
  • skillet
  • Meat Thermometer

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, panko breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, grated ginger, soy sauce, fish sauce, salt, black pepper, chopped cilantro, and green onions. Mix gently until just combined, ensuring not to overmix. With your hands, form the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and set them aside on a plate.
  2. Heat a generous drizzle of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully add the meatballs in batches, ensuring they don't overcrowd the pan. Sear them for 3-4 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Remove the meatballs from the skillet and set them aside on a paper towel-lined plate.
  3. In the same skillet, add a bit more oil if needed, and sauté the finely chopped onion over medium heat for 2-3 minutes until translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for another minute until fragrant. Then add the red curry paste and turmeric powder, stirring well to combine and letting it cook for about 1 minute to enhance the flavors.
  4. Pour in the creamy coconut milk and chicken broth, stirring to combine all the ingredients. Add the fish sauce, brown sugar, and lime juice, mixing until the sugar has dissolved. Allow the sauce to come to a gentle simmer, letting the vibrant colors and aromas fill your kitchen.
  5. Incorporate the cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, and carrots into the bubbling sauce. Stir well, allowing the vegetables to mingle with the flavors and soften slightly. Simmer this mixture for about 5 minutes, giving the veggies time to become tender while infusing the sauce with their natural sweetness.
  6. Return the seared meatballs to the skillet, submerging them gently in the coconut curry sauce. Cover the skillet and let them simmer on low heat for 10-12 minutes. Use a meat thermometer to ensure that the internal temperature of the meatballs reaches 165°F, ensuring they are fully cooked and infused with the sauce.
  7. Before serving, taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Remove the skillet from heat and garnish with fresh basil and additional cilantro just before plating. Serve warm, accompanied by jasmine rice or your favorite side for a complete meal.

Nutrition

Serving: 1meatballCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 18gProtein: 20gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 75mgSodium: 650mgPotassium: 350mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze separately for up to 3 months. Reheat in a skillet with coconut milk or chicken broth until heated through.

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