Easy Thai Baked Chicken Meatballs – Sweet, Spicy & Ready in 30 Minutes!
These Easy Thai Baked Chicken Meatballs are bursting with bold flavors like ginger, lemongrass, garlic, and cilantro—all glazed in a sticky sweet chili sauce. Made with lean ground chicken and baked to perfection, they’re a healthier alternative to fried meatballs and ideal for weeknight dinners, party appetizers, or meal prep. Quick, juicy, and packed with Thai-inspired goodness, this recipe is a must-save for anyone who loves sweet and spicy comfort food!
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Cookie scoop or spoon
- Oven
- Brush for glazing
Ingredients
Meatballs:
- 1 lb (450g) ground chicken
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
- 1 tbsp lemongrass paste or finely chopped lemongrass
- 2 tbsp chopped cilantro
- 2 tbsp chopped green onion
- 1 egg (optional, for binding)
- ¼ cup breadcrumbs (or gluten-free alternative)
- 1 tbsp fish sauce or soy sauce (optional)
- 1 tsp red curry paste (optional, for heat)
Glaze:
- ⅓ cup sweet chili sauce
- 1 tsp lime juice
- 1 tsp honey (optional, for balance)
Garnish (optional):
- Sesame seeds
- Fresh cilantro
- Lime wedges
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix meatball ingredients in a large bowl. Gently fold until just combined—don’t overmix.
- Shape meatballs using a scoop or wet hands into 1½-inch balls. Place evenly on the baking sheet.
- Bake for 10 minutes, then remove and brush with sweet chili glaze.
- Return to oven and bake for another 8–10 minutes, until cooked through and glaze is sticky.
- Optional broil for 1–2 minutes for caramelized finish—watch closely.
- Garnish and serve over rice, noodles, or with dipping sauce.
Notes
- reeze raw meatballs on a tray before bagging to prevent sticking.
- Use ground turkey or pork as a substitute for chicken.
- Make it gluten-free by using GF breadcrumbs or omitting them.
- Add-ins like shredded carrot, chopped peanuts, or coconut milk can enhance texture and flavor.
- Taste your glaze before brushing—adjust lime, honey, or chili to suit your heat preference.
- Serve with cucumber salad, peanut slaw, or sautéed cabbage for a balanced meal.