Spicy Honey Garlic Chicken Meatballs

If you’re looking for a dish that’s packed with flavor and a little kick, these Spicy Honey Garlic Chicken Meatballs are going to be your new go-to. Imagine crispy, juicy chicken meatballs coated in a sweet and spicy sauce that will have you coming back for more with every bite. The combination of honey and garlic is already a winning duo, but add a bit of spice to the mix, and you’ve got yourself a flavor explosion that’s both comforting and exciting. Trust me, this recipe is the perfect balance of heat, sweetness, and savory goodness.

These meatballs are the perfect appetizer for a game night, party, or even as a main dish served over rice or alongside your favorite veggie. Plus, they’re easy to make and incredibly satisfying. Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why You’ll Love Spicy Honey Garlic Chicken Meatballs

Here’s why these meatballs are a total crowd-pleaser:

Sweet & Spicy

The spicy honey garlic sauce is a perfect blend of sweet, savory, and spicy—every bite is a delightful burst of flavor. The heat is balanced just right, so it’s not overwhelming but definitely adds a kick!

Tender & Juicy

Made with lean chicken, these meatballs are tender and juicy on the inside, with a slight crisp on the outside, making them a total textural delight.

Quick & Easy

With only a few ingredients and a simple cooking method, this recipe is easy to make even if you’re short on time. The meatballs come together quickly, and the sauce is super easy to whip up.

Versatile

These meatballs can be served as a snack, an appetizer, or as a main dish alongside some rice, noodles, or vegetables. You can even serve them in a wrap or sandwich for a fun twist.

Ingredients

Here’s everything you need for the Spicy Honey Garlic Chicken Meatballs:

• Ground Chicken: The base of the meatballs, lean and flavorful, absorbing the delicious sauce perfectly.
• Breadcrumbs: These help bind the meatballs and keep them tender.
• Egg: Adds moisture and helps hold everything together.
• Garlic Powder & Onion Powder: For that classic savory flavor.
• Salt & Pepper: To season the meatballs perfectly.
• Honey: The sweet component of the sauce that balances out the heat.
• Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic is key to the flavor of the sauce, giving it a bold and aromatic punch.
• Soy Sauce: Adds a rich umami flavor to the sauce.
• Sriracha or Red Pepper Flakes: For the heat—adjust to your spice preference.
• Olive Oil: For cooking the meatballs and giving them a crisp exterior.

(Note: Exact measurements are listed in the recipe card above.)

Instructions

Here’s how to make these Spicy Honey Garlic Chicken Meatballs:

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Mix the Meatball Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until well combined. Don’t overmix, or the meatballs could become tough.

Step 3: Form the Meatballs

Shape the chicken mixture into 1-inch meatballs, and place them on the prepared baking sheet. You should be able to get about 18-20 meatballs.

Step 4: Bake the Meatballs

Bake the meatballs for about 15-18 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and cooked through. You can check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer (it should read 165°F or 74°C).

Step 5: Make the Sauce

While the meatballs are baking, prepare the sauce. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the honey, soy sauce, garlic, and sriracha (or red pepper flakes). Stir occasionally, and let the sauce simmer for 3-5 minutes until it thickens and becomes syrupy.

Step 6: Coat the Meatballs

Once the meatballs are done, remove them from the oven and transfer them to a bowl. Pour the spicy honey garlic sauce over the meatballs, and toss gently to coat them in the sauce.

Step 7: Serve & Enjoy!

Serve the meatballs warm, garnished with some sesame seeds or chopped green onions for extra flavor and crunch. Enjoy them on their own or pair with your favorite side dishes!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 350
Total Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 120mg
Sodium: 780mg
Carbohydrates: 17g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 14g
Protein: 26g

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

How to Serve Spicy Honey Garlic Chicken Meatballs

These meatballs are so versatile! Here are a few ways to enjoy them:

As an Appetizer

Serve the meatballs as a party appetizer or game day snack. You can keep them warm in a slow cooker for easy serving.

Over Rice

Serve them over steamed rice for a delicious and filling meal. The sauce soaks into the rice, making each bite even more flavorful.

With Veggies

Pair the meatballs with some roasted vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or bell peppers to balance the flavors.

In a Wrap or Sandwich

Make a wrap or sandwich by placing the meatballs in a soft tortilla or on a bun with some slaw and extra sauce. You’ll have a tasty, handheld meal!

Additional Tips

Make It Spicy or Mild

Feel free to adjust the heat level by adding more or less sriracha or red pepper flakes to the sauce. You can make it as spicy as you like!

Prep Ahead

These meatballs can be prepped ahead of time. Make the meatballs and store them in the fridge for up to 1 day before baking. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months. Just bake them straight from the freezer and add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Double the Batch

This recipe is perfect for making in bulk! You can easily double or triple the batch to serve a crowd or meal prep for the week.

Try a Different Meat

If you prefer, you can substitute ground turkey or beef for the chicken. Just note that the flavor and texture may change a bit.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use frozen chicken for these meatballs?

A1: It’s best to use fresh ground chicken for meatballs, but if you have frozen ground chicken, make sure it’s fully thawed before mixing.

Q2: Can I make these meatballs without breadcrumbs?

A2: Yes! You can substitute breadcrumbs with oats or crushed crackers for a different texture. You could also try using almond flour for a gluten-free option.

Q3: Can I bake the meatballs instead of frying them?

A3: Absolutely! Baking the meatballs is a great way to cook them without the extra oil. Simply bake them at 375°F until golden brown.

Q4: How can I make the sauce thicker?

A4: If you’d like the sauce to be thicker, just simmer it for a few extra minutes. If it’s too thick, you can thin it out with a bit of water or chicken broth.

Q5: Can I freeze the meatballs after cooking?

A5: Yes! You can freeze the cooked meatballs for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw them in the fridge and then bake them at 350°F until warmed through.

Q6: Can I use this recipe for meatball subs?

A6: Yes! These meatballs would be amazing in a sub roll with some melted cheese for a spicy and delicious sandwich.

Q7: How spicy are these meatballs?

A7: The level of spiciness can be adjusted to your taste. With the recommended amount of sriracha, they’ll have a moderate heat level, but you can tone it down or ramp it up by adjusting the amount.

Q8: Can I use a slow cooker for this recipe?

A8: Yes! You can cook the meatballs in a slow cooker. Just brown them first, then add the sauce and cook on low for 2-3 hours.

Q9: How do I store leftovers?

A9: Store any leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or microwave before serving.

Q10: What can I serve these meatballs with?

A10: These meatballs go great with rice, noodles, or even mashed potatoes. For a low-carb option, try serving them with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.

Conclusion

These Spicy Honey Garlic Chicken Meatballs are an absolute game-changer. With their tender texture, perfectly balanced sauce, and a touch of heat, they make for a dish that’s full of flavor and easy to love. Whether you’re enjoying them as a snack, serving them over rice, or tucking them into a sandwich, this recipe is guaranteed to impress. Get ready for a mouthwatering experience that will leave everyone asking for seconds!

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