Looking for a tasty dinner that’s easy to make? Discover the secret to BBQ Glazed Chicken Meatballs that will make your taste buds happy! But what makes these meatballs special?
We’ll show you how to make BBQ Glazed Chicken Meatballs that are full of flavor. They have the perfect mix of sweet and tangy. Plus, they’re juicy and tender. These meatballs will impress everyone and become a favorite dish.
Table of Contents
BBQ Glazed Chicken Meatballs
Equipment
- Mixing bowl For combining ingredients
- Baking sheet For baking the meatballs
- Parchment paper To prevent sticking
- Oven For baking
- Skillet For coating meatballs in BBQ sauce
Ingrédients
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs or panko for extra crispiness
- 1 egg beaten
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil for brushing or pan-frying
BBQ Glaze
- 1 cup BBQ sauce homemade or store-bought
- 1 tbsp honey for extra sweetness
- 1 tsp smoked paprika for a smoky flavor
Instructions
Prepare the Meatballs
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, beaten egg, garlic, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Mix until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
Shape and Bake
- Using your hands or a small scoop, shape the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Brush the meatballs lightly with olive oil.
- Bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown and fully cooked.
Prepare the BBQ Glaze
- In a skillet over medium heat, combine BBQ sauce, honey, and smoked paprika.
- Stir and let simmer for 2-3 minutes until warm and slightly thickened.
Glaze the Meatballs
- Transfer the cooked meatballs into the skillet and toss to coat them evenly with the BBQ glaze.
- Cook for another 2 minutes, ensuring the meatballs absorb the sauce.
Serve
- Serve warm as an appetizer, over rice, or with mashed potatoes. Enjoy!
Nutrition
Introduction to BBQ Glazed Chicken Meatballs
BBQ Glazed Chicken Meatballs are great for parties or family dinners. They mix lean chicken with a tasty BBQ glaze. This makes a dish that’s both healthy and delicious.
What are BBQ Glazed Chicken Meatballs?
These meatballs are small and made from ground chicken. They’re covered in a sweet and tangy BBQ sauce. The meatballs have spices like garlic and onion powder for extra flavor.
Why Choose Chicken Meatballs?
Chicken meatballs are good for those who want less red meat. They’re lean and have fewer calories than beef or pork. Plus, they taste mild, so the BBQ glaze really stands out.
« These BBQ Glazed Chicken Meatballs are the perfect balance of savory, sweet, and perfectly tender. They’re a hit at every party! »
Ingredients for BBQ Glazed Chicken Meatballs
Essential Ingredients
To make the best BBQ glazed chicken meatballs, you need a few things. You’ll need ground chicken, garlic, ginger, green onions, an egg, breadcrumbs, soy sauce, and red curry paste. These ingredients make a meal that’s full of flavor and good for kids.
Optional Ingredients for Extra Flavor
Want to make your BBQ chicken meatballs even better? Add some optional ingredients. Try fresh cilantro, more spices like cumin or smoked paprika, or diced veggies like bell peppers or zucchini. You can make the dish your own with these choices.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ground Chicken | 1 lb. |
| Garlic, minced | 2 cloves |
| Fresh Ginger, grated | 1 tsp. |
| Green Onions, chopped | 1/4 cup |
| Egg, beaten | 1 large |
| Breadcrumbs | 1 cup |
| Soy Sauce | 2 tbsp. |
| Red Curry Paste | 1 tsp. |
With these ingredients, you can make a tasty and protein-packed dinner for everyone. The mix of ground chicken, herbs, spices, and BBQ glaze makes a kid-friendly meal that’s loved by all.
Preparation Steps
Making tasty make-ahead meal prep dishes starts with meatball prep. For these tasty air fryer chicken meatballs, start by picking the right ingredients.
How to Prepare the Chicken
Start by mixing 1 pound of ground chicken with minced garlic and ginger paste. Add sliced green onions, a beaten egg, breadcrumbs, soy sauce, and red curry paste in a big bowl. Make sure everything mixes well for a great taste.
Mixing Ingredients for Meatballs
- Put the ground chicken, garlic, ginger, green onions, egg, breadcrumbs, soy sauce, and red curry paste in a bowl.
- Mix everything well until it’s all together.
Shaping the Meatballs
Use a cookie scoop or spoon to make 22 meatballs, each 2 tablespoons big. This makes them cook evenly and look good. These air fryer chicken meatballs are great for meal prep and can be frozen for later.
« Making perfect meatballs is about the right mix of flavors and textures. With a few easy steps, you can make a dish that’s tasty and good for any time. »
BBQ Sauce Options
Make your BBQ Glazed Chicken Meatballs even better with the right sauce! You can choose from homemade sticky barbecue glaze or store-bought. There are many tasty options to go with these easy appetizers.
Homemade BBQ Sauce Recipe
Try making your own barbecue sauce for extra flavor. Mix ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and more in a saucepan. Heat it over medium for 10-15 minutes, stirring now and then.
This makes a sweet and tangy glaze. It’s perfect for your chicken meatballs. Your guests will love it.
Store-Bought BBQ Sauce Recommendations
- Sweet Baby Ray’s: A classic with sweet and tangy flavors.
- Stubb’s: Rich and bold, great with chicken meatballs.
- Bull’s-Eye: Adds a spicy kick to the glaze.
When buying store-bought, choose ones with natural ingredients. Avoid too much sugar or preservatives. These sauces will make your meatballs a hit at any party or game day.
« The sticky barbecue glaze can turn these meatballs into an irresistible appetizer for parties or game days. »
Cooking Methods
There are many ways to make tasty grilled chicken meatballs or air fryer chicken meatballs. You can bake them at 400°F for 16-18 minutes. This makes them juicy and full of flavor. Or, you can grill them for a smoky taste.
Baking vs. Grilling Meatballs
Baking keeps the grilled chicken meatballs tender and juicy. Grilling adds a smoky flavor and a nice crust. Try both to see what you like best.
Cooking on the Stovetop
Another way is to cook the air fryer chicken meatballs on the stovetop. Use olive oil to sear them until they’re golden and crispy. This is quick and lets you watch them cook.
Using an air fryer is also a good choice. It makes the meatballs crispy with less oil. Cook them at 375°F for 10-12 minutes.
Choosing how to cook depends on what you like and what you have. Each way makes grilled chicken meatballs and air fryer chicken meatballs delicious.
Tips for Perfect Meatballs
Making tasty meatballs is like an art. With a few tips, you can make your dishes better. Whether it’s for easy snacks or meals for kids, getting the meatball texture right is key.
Achieving the Right Texture
For soft and tender meatballs, how you mix the meat is important. Don’t mix too much, or they’ll be hard. Mix gently and use wet hands to shape them.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Oversized meatballs: Don’t make them too big. Keep them small, about two tablespoons, for even cooking.
- Overcooking: Watch them closely while cooking. This prevents them from drying out.
For juicier meatballs, add grated zucchini or carrots. They add nutrition and keep the meatballs moist. Follow these tips to make meatballs that everyone will love.
Serving Suggestions
These BBQ glazed chicken meatballs are super tasty and can be served many ways. Serve them over steamed rice, cauliflower rice, or noodles for a full meal. They also go great with zucchini noodles or in lettuce wraps for a low-carb choice.
As an appetizer, these meatballs are a crowd-pleaser at parties or tailgating. Serve them on toothpicks with extra BBQ sauce for dipping. They’re perfect for parties or tailgating because they’re small and tasty.
These meatballs are also great in sandwiches. They add a mix of savory and sweet flavors. Try them on a soft bun with slaw or pickled onions for a tasty treat.
To finish the meal, pair the BBQ chicken meatballs with a fresh salad or steamed veggies. This makes for a balanced and filling dish.
Ideal Pairings for BBQ Chicken Meatballs
- Steamed rice or cauliflower rice
- Zucchini noodles or lettuce wraps
- Soft buns or dinner rolls
- Crunchy slaw or pickled onions
- Fresh salad or steamed vegetables
Creative Ways to Serve
- Appetizer on toothpicks with a side of extra BBQ sauce
- Sliders or mini sandwiches for a party
- Served over a bed of noodles or cauliflower rice
- Wrapped in crisp lettuce leaves for a low-carb option
- Incorporated into a hearty salad or grain bowl
Storage and Reheating
These BBQ Glazed Chicken Meatballs are tasty and great for meal prep or appetizers. Let’s talk about how to store and reheat them.
How to Store Leftover Meatballs
Put leftover meatballs and sauce in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 4 days. You can freeze them for up to 3 months. Let them cool first before freezing.
Best Practices for Reheating
- Thaw frozen meatballs in the fridge overnight before reheating.
- Reheat them in a covered skillet over medium heat. Add water or broth if they dry out.
- You can also reheat in the microwave, covered, in 30-second intervals until hot.
By following these steps, your BBQ Glazed Chicken Meatballs will stay tasty. They’re perfect for meal prep or easy appetizers.
« These BBQ Glazed Chicken Meatballs are a game-changer for meal prep. I love being able to have them ready to go in the fridge or freezer for quick and easy dinners or appetizers. »
Now, you can enjoy BBQ-glazed chicken anytime. It’s great for weeknights or weekend gatherings.
Nutrition Information
These BBQ glazed chicken meatballs are great for protein and kid-friendly meals. Each meatball has about 95 calories, 9 grams of protein, and 5 grams of carbs. They are a healthy and tasty choice for your family.
Caloric Breakdown
A serving of 5 meatballs has about 554 calories. They have 30 grams of carbs, 29 grams of protein, and 37 grams of fat. The lean ground chicken makes them a better choice for your heart.
Health Benefits of Chicken Meatballs
- Good source of vitamins A and C, potassium, and calcium
- Lower in saturated fat than traditional meatballs
- Includes added vegetables in the curry sauce, increasing fiber and nutrient content
- Suitable for both adults and children as part of a balanced, protein-packed dinner
Adding these tasty and healthy BBQ glazed chicken meatballs to your meals is a great idea. They make dinner satisfying and good for everyone.
Variations of BBQ Glazed Chicken Meatballs
Make your BBQ glazed chicken meatballs even better. Try new flavors and ingredients. These ideas will wow your guests.
Adding Vegetables for Nutritional Boost
Adding chopped veggies to your meatballs is smart. Spinach, carrots, or bell peppers are great. They add vitamins and fiber.
The colors and tastes of these veggies mix well with BBQ glaze. This makes your dish healthy and tasty.
International Flavors
Try new spice blends for a global twist. Use Italian herbs for a Mediterranean taste. Or, mix chili powder, cumin, and paprika for Tex-Mex.
Change the BBQ sauce to teriyaki or sweet and sour for East Asian flavors. These ideas let you make dishes for everyone.
| Variation | Ingredients | Flavor Profile |
|---|---|---|
| Mediterranean | Ground chicken, spinach, oregano, basil, rosemary | Italian, herbal |
| Tex-Mex | Ground chicken, bell peppers, chili powder, cumin, paprika | Spicy, smoky |
| East Asian | Ground chicken, carrots, teriyaki or sweet and sour sauce | Sweet, tangy |
These variations let you make many tasty dishes. Your BBQ glazed chicken meatballs will be a hit with everyone.
BBQ Glazed Chicken Meatballs for Special Occasions
For any party, like a backyard BBQ or a tailgating event, BBQ glazed chicken meatballs are great. They’re easy to make and everyone loves them.
Perfect for BBQ Parties
These meatballs are juicy and full of flavor. You can serve them as sliders or in a buffet. This way, everyone can add their favorite sauces and toppings.
They’re a lighter choice than beef burgers. So, they’re a big hit with guests.
Great for Meal Prepping
Make a big batch of these meatballs on the weekend. Then, enjoy them all week in different meals. They’re perfect for tailgating snacks and make-ahead meal prep.
Just reheat them in a slow cooker or oven. Serve with steamed veggies, rice, or quinoa for a complete meal.
BBQ glazed chicken meatballs are perfect for any event. They’re great for casual gatherings or meal planning. They impress and please everyone.
« These meatballs are a game-changer for my BBQ parties. They’re a hit with everyone, and I love how easy they are to prepare in advance. »
Conclusion and Final Thoughts
BBQ Glazed Chicken Meatballs are a tasty and flexible choice for dinner or parties. They mix savory flavors, tender meat, and lots of protein. This makes them a hit with everyone, and you can adjust them to fit different tastes.
Recap of Key Points
The recipe’s main points are juicy chicken meatballs and tasty BBQ sauce. You can bake, grill, or cook them on the stovetop. They’re a healthy, tasty option instead of beef.
You can change the recipe to fit your taste by trying different sauces and spices. This lets you find your favorite way to enjoy them.
Encouragement to Try the Recipe
Looking for a simple appetizer or a protein-rich dinner? Try the BBQ Glazed Chicken Meatballs. They taste great and are good for you. They might just become your family’s new favorite dish.
So, go ahead and get the ingredients ready. We think you’ll love these meatballs. They’re sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
FAQ
What are BBQ Glazed Chicken Meatballs?
BBQ Glazed Chicken Meatballs are a tasty dish. They can be an appetizer or a main course. They mix ground chicken with a yummy BBQ glaze.
Why choose chicken meatballs over traditional beef or pork meatballs?
Chicken meatballs are healthier than beef or pork. They taste mild and go well with many sauces. They’re good for those who want to eat less red meat but still enjoy a tasty meal.
What are the essential ingredients for making BBQ Glazed Chicken Meatballs?
You need ground chicken, garlic, ginger, green onions, egg, breadcrumbs, soy sauce, and red curry paste.
What optional ingredients can be added for extra flavor?
You can add cilantro, more spices, or different veggies for extra taste.
How can you achieve the right texture when making the meatballs?
Don’t mix the meat too much to avoid tough meatballs. Use wet hands to shape them to prevent sticking.
What are some common mistakes to avoid when making these meatballs?
Avoid making meatballs too big or overcooking them. This can make them dry.
How can you make the meatballs juicier?
Add grated zucchini or carrots to the mix for juicier meatballs.
What are some recommended ways to serve the BBQ Glazed Chicken Meatballs?
Serve them over steamed rice, cauliflower rice, or noodles. For a low-carb option, use zucchini noodles or lettuce wraps. As an appetizer, serve on toothpicks with extra sauce for dipping.
How can these meatballs be stored and reheated?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw frozen meatballs in the fridge overnight and reheat in a covered skillet or microwave.
What are the nutritional benefits of BBQ Glazed Chicken Meatballs?
A serving has about 554 calories, 30g carbs, 29g protein, and 37g fat. They’re rich in vitamins A and C, potassium, and calcium. They’re also lower in saturated fat than beef or pork, making them better for your heart.
How can the BBQ Glazed Chicken Meatballs be customized to different tastes and dietary needs?
Add chopped spinach, carrots, or bell peppers for more nutrition. Try different spice blends or sauces like teriyaki or sweet and sour for international flavors.
What makes BBQ Glazed Chicken Meatballs suitable for special occasions?
They’re great for BBQ parties as a lighter option than beef burgers. You can make them ahead and reheat in a slow cooker. They’re perfect for tailgating or meal prep.
