These tasty teriyaki chicken meatballs are juicy and full of flavor! Made with ground chicken and a sweet teriyaki sauce, they are a hit at dinner or parties.
Let’s be real, who can resist meatballs? I love serving them over rice or noodles. They disappear so fast, I sometimes think they have legs! 😂
What I enjoy most is how easy they are to make. Just mix, form, and bake! Perfect for a busy night or to impress your friends on game day.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Chicken: This is the base of your meatballs. You can substitute it with ground turkey or ground pork if you prefer a different flavor. I often go for ground turkey for a leaner option.
Breadcrumbs: Regular breadcrumbs work well, but you can use panko for a crunchier texture. Gluten-free breadcrumbs are also an option if you’re avoiding gluten.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated parmesan adds flavor and moisture. If you’re looking for dairy-free alternatives, nutritional yeast can give a cheesy taste without the dairy.
Green Onions: Fresh green onions bring a mild onion flavor. Chives or shallots can be great substitutes. I love the brightness green onions add to the dish!
Teriyaki Sauce: If you’re short on time, store-bought teriyaki sauce is handy. For a healthier option, make your own with soy sauce, honey, and a splash of vinegar.
How Can I Ensure My Meatballs Are Moist and Flavorful?
Mixing your ingredients well is crucial for flavor. Don’t over-mix, though – just enough to combine everything. Adding moist ingredients like egg and sautéed onions keeps them tender. If you feel the mixture is too dry, consider adding a splash of broth.
- Shape the meatballs gently; overworking them can make them tough.
- Keep them around 1 to 1.5 inches for even cooking.
- Using parchment paper prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.
How to Make Teriyaki Chicken Meatballs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatballs:
- 1 pound ground chicken
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup green onions, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
- 1 egg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
For the Sauce and Garnish:
- ¼ cup teriyaki sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
- Fresh cilantro or parsley (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 20 minutes to cook, making it a quick and tasty meal. In total, you’ll spend about 30 minutes from start to finish enjoying delicious Teriyaki Chicken Meatballs!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Oven:
First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure your meatballs cook evenly and get a nice golden color.
2. Mixing the Meatball Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, green onions, minced garlic, minced ginger, egg, soy sauce, sesame oil, and add salt and pepper to your taste. Mix all the ingredients together until everything is well combined. Don’t be shy—get in there with your hands to really blend it!
3. Shaping the Meatballs:
Now it’s time to shape your meatballs! Take a small amount of the mixture and roll it between your palms to create balls about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
4. Baking the Meatballs:
Put the baking sheet in your preheated oven and bake the meatballs for 15-20 minutes. Keep an eye on them; they should be cooked through and golden brown when done.
5. Warming the Teriyaki Sauce:
While your meatballs are baking, grab a small saucepan and heat the teriyaki sauce over medium heat until it’s warm. This will add a nice touch when you toss the meatballs later.
6. Coating the Meatballs:
Once the meatballs are out of the oven and cooked through, place them in a bowl and pour the warm teriyaki sauce over them. Toss gently until all the meatballs are evenly coated in the delicious sauce.
7. Garnishing and Serving:
Transfer the coated meatballs to a serving dish and sprinkle with sesame seeds. You can also add some fresh chopped cilantro or parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
8. Time to Eat!
Serve your tasty Teriyaki Chicken Meatballs hot and enjoy! They make a wonderful snack or a delightful meal with rice or salad. Happy eating!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute for ground chicken in this recipe. Just keep an eye on the cooking time as turkey may have slightly different moisture levels. You can follow the same instructions without any changes necessary.
How Do I Store Leftover Meatballs?
For leftovers, let the meatballs cool completely, then place them in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll last for about 3-4 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage; just make sure to separate layers with parchment paper before placing in the freezer!
Can I Make These Meatballs Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Prepare the meatball mixture, shape them, and then cover and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. This is a great time-saver! Alternatively, you can fully cook them in advance and reheat before serving.
What Can I Serve with Teriyaki Chicken Meatballs?
These meatballs pair wonderfully with steamed rice or noodles to soak up the teriyaki sauce. You can also serve them alongside a fresh salad or some steamed vegetables for a balanced meal!
