Easy Thai Baked Chicken Meatballs

Why Make This Recipe

Easy Thai Baked Chicken Meatballs are perfect for a quick and tasty meal. They are simple to make and packed with flavor.

These meatballs are moist and healthy, making them a great option for lunch or dinner. You can enjoy them on their own or pair them with rice or noodles for a complete meal.

How To Make Easy Thai Baked Chicken Meatballs

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb ground chicken
  • 2 tablespoons red curry paste
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
  • 2 tablespoons fish sauce
  • 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 egg
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish

Directions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, red curry paste, minced garlic, grated ginger, fish sauce, breadcrumbs, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well until everything is evenly incorporated.
  3. Shape the mixture into small meatballs and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  4. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the meatballs are cooked through and golden brown.
  5. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.
  6. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve warm.
Thai baked chicken meatballs in a white casserole dish,

Prep Time And Nutrition Facts

This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 20 minutes to cook, making a total of 30 minutes. It serves 4 people and each serving has about 350 calories, 25 grams of protein, and 15 grams of fat.

How To Serve Easy Thai Baked Chicken Meatballs

You can serve these meatballs with steamed rice, noodles, or a fresh salad. They are also great as a snack or appetizer. Consider adding a dipping sauce like sweet chili sauce or peanut sauce for extra flavor.

How To Store Easy Thai Baked Chicken Meatballs

Store any leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will last for about 3-4 days. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply bake them in the oven or microwave until warm.

Tips To Make Easy Thai Baked Chicken Meatballs

  • Make sure to mix the ingredients well to avoid dry spots in the meatballs.
  • You can adjust the amount of red curry paste to control the spice level.
  • For added moisture, try adding a bit of finely chopped onion or bell pepper to the meat mixture.

Health And Benefits Of This Recipe

This recipe is a good source of protein because it uses ground chicken, which is leaner than beef. The fresh ginger and garlic add flavor and nutrients, such as vitamins that help boost your immune system. The fish sauce adds umami without excessive fat, making this meal balanced and nutritious.

Variation

You can swap ground chicken for ground turkey or even tofu for a vegetarian option. You can also add chopped vegetables, like carrots or bell peppers, to the meat mixture for extra crunch and nutrition.

FAQs

Q: Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can shape the meatballs and store them in the fridge for a day before baking.

Q: Are these meatballs spicy?
A: They have a hint of spice from the red curry paste, but you can use less if you prefer milder flavors.

Q: Can I bake these meatballs on a different temperature?
A: Yes, you can bake them at a lower temperature, but it might take longer to cook through. Just ensure they reach 165°F internally.