Name: Thai Chicken Meatballs with Peanut Sauce
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1 pound ground chicken; 4 green onions, chopped; ½ cup cilantro, chopped; 1 tablespoon fish sauce; 1 tablespoon red curry paste; 1 cup breadcrumbs; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste); ½ teaspoon pepper (or to taste); 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 1 tablespoon red curry paste (for the sauce); 14 ounce coconut milk; 2 tablespoons peanut butter; 1 tablespoon brown sugar; ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes; ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste, for the sauce); ½ teaspoon pepper (or to taste, for the sauce)

Are you ready to take your taste buds on an adventure? These Thai Chicken Meatballs with Peanut Sauce are a delicious combination of flavors that will leave you craving more. With a blend of tender ground chicken, aromatic herbs, and a creamy, nutty sauce, this dish is not only simple to prepare but also a feast for the eyes and palate. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, these meatballs will surely impress your family and friends.

Why This Recipe Belongs in Your Rotation

This recipe is a fantastic choice for several reasons. Firstly, it’s a quick and easy meal that can be made in under an hour. The vibrant flavors of Thai cuisine paired with the comforting texture of meatballs make this dish both satisfying and exciting. Plus, the peanut sauce adds a rich and creamy element that complements the meatballs beautifully. With healthy ingredients and plenty of flexibility for substitutions, these Thai Chicken Meatballs with Peanut Sauce are a dish you’ll want to make regularly.

Ingredient List

To create these delightful meatballs and sauce, you’ll need the following ingredients:

1 pound ground chicken
4 green onions, chopped
½ cup cilantro, chopped
1 tablespoon fish sauce
1 tablespoon red curry paste
1 cup breadcrumbs
1 large egg
1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
½ teaspoon pepper (or to taste)
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 tablespoon red curry paste (for the sauce)
14-ounce can coconut milk
2 tablespoons peanut butter
1 tablespoon brown sugar
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
½ teaspoon salt (or to taste, for the sauce)
½ teaspoon pepper (or to taste, for the sauce)

Must-Have Equipment

To make these meatballs, you’ll need a few essential kitchen tools:

Mixing Bowl – For combining the meatball ingredients.
Baking Sheet – To bake the meatballs in the oven.
Skillet – To prepare the peanut sauce.
Meat Thermometer – To ensure your meatballs are cooked through.
Whisk – For mixing the sauce ingredients smoothly.

Mastering Thai Chicken Meatballs with Peanut Sauce: How-To

Creating the perfect Thai Chicken Meatballs with Peanut Sauce is a straightforward process. Follow these steps for a delicious result:

Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, chopped green onions, chopped cilantro, fish sauce, red curry paste, breadcrumbs, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.

Step 2: Shape the Meatballs

Using your hands, form the mixture into meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Step 3: Bake the Meatballs

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the meatballs for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Step 4: Prepare the Peanut Sauce

While the meatballs are baking, heat sesame oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the second tablespoon of red curry paste and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then, add the coconut milk, peanut butter, brown sugar, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Stir until the sauce is creamy and well combined.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Once the meatballs are cooked, remove them from the oven and toss them gently in the peanut sauce. Serve immediately over rice or noodles, garnished with additional cilantro and chopped peanuts if desired.

Smart Substitutions

If you’re looking to customize this recipe further, consider these substitutions:

Ground turkey or pork can be used in place of ground chicken.
For a vegan option, substitute ground chicken with plant-based meat and use a flax egg instead of a regular egg.
Use soy sauce instead of fish sauce for a different flavor profile.
For a gluten-free option, substitute breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.

Insider Tips

Don’t overmix the meatball mixture; this can make them tough. Mix just until combined.
If the mixture feels too wet, add a bit more breadcrumbs to help bind it.
For an extra kick, add more red pepper flakes to the peanut sauce.
Serve these meatballs as an appetizer with toothpicks for a fun party dish.

Leftovers & Meal Prep

These Thai Chicken Meatballs with Peanut Sauce are perfect for meal prep! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can easily reheat them in the microwave or on the stovetop. They also freeze well—just place them in a freezer-safe container, and they’ll last for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Common Qs About Thai Chicken Meatballs with Peanut Sauce

Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs and freeze them before baking. Just thaw them in the fridge the night before you plan to bake them.

What can I serve with these meatballs?

These meatballs pair wonderfully with jasmine rice, rice noodles, or a fresh salad. You can also serve them as an appetizer with dipping sauce.

Can I use a different type of nut butter?

Yes, you can substitute almond butter or cashew butter for peanut butter if you prefer a different flavor or have allergies.

How spicy are these meatballs?

The level of spiciness can be adjusted by adding more or less red curry paste and red pepper flakes. Feel free to taste and adjust as you go!

Save & Share

If you enjoyed this recipe, don’t forget to share it with your friends and family! They will love trying out these Thai Chicken Meatballs with Peanut Sauce and experiencing the delightful explosion of flavors. Whether it’s on social media or in a family group chat, spreading the love of food is always a good thing!

These Thai Chicken Meatballs with Peanut Sauce are sure to become a beloved addition to your meal rotation. With their incredible taste, ease of preparation, and versatility, you’ll find yourself making them time and again. Enjoy your cooking adventure!