Honey Glazed Chicken Meatballs
Tender, juicy, and irresistibly flavorful, these Honey Glazed Chicken Meatballs are coated in a sticky, sweet-and-savory glaze that packs a delicious punch. They’re perfect as an appetizer, a savory snack, or a quick dinner with rice or noodles!
Serves: 4–6 (makes about 20 meatballs)
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Ingredients
For the Chicken Meatballs:
- 500 g (about 2 cups) ground chicken
- ¼ cup plain breadcrumbs (30 g)
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (25 g)
- 1 large egg
- 1 Tbsp finely chopped fresh parsley (or 1 tsp dried)
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 Tbsp vegetable oil, for frying
For the Honey Glaze:
- 3 Tbsp honey
- 2 Tbsp soy sauce (light or low-sodium)
- 1 Tbsp rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1 clove garlic, grated
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
Instructions
Step 1: Mix the Meatballs
In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix just until combined—do not overmix to avoid tough meatballs.
Step 2: Shape the Meatballs
Wet your hands to prevent sticking, then roll the mixture into 1¼-inch (3 cm) balls. Place them on a parchment-lined tray.
Step 3: Make the Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, and red pepper flakes (if using). Set aside.
Step 4: Cook the Meatballs
Heat oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add meatballs in a single layer and cook undisturbed for 3 minutes until browned. Turn and continue cooking for 5–7 minutes until golden and cooked through (internal temp: 165°F/75°C).
Step 5: Add the Glaze
Lower the heat and pour in the glaze. Toss gently to coat all the meatballs. Simmer for 1–2 minutes until the glaze thickens slightly.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Transfer to a platter and garnish with extra chopped parsley or sesame seeds, if desired. Serve warm with toothpicks, over rice, noodles, or a fresh green salad.
Tips for Success
- Prep Ahead: Make meatballs and glaze in advance. Reheat gently before serving.
- Bake Option: Bake meatballs at 400°F (200°C) for 15–20 minutes, then toss with glaze in a skillet.
- Storage: Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of water or broth.
- Freeze: Freeze uncooked or cooked (unglazed) meatballs for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat with glaze.
Nutrition (Per Serving – Serves 6)
- Calories: ~200
- Protein: ~15g
- Carbs: ~12g