Description

Fragrant, flavorful, and full of bold Southeast Asian spices, these Thai Chicken Meatballs in Coconut Curry are a delicious fusion of comfort food and exotic flair. Juicy ground chicken meatballs are simmered in a rich coconut curry sauce packed with garlic, ginger, lime, and red curry paste. It’s a quick and healthy weeknight dinner that brings restaurant-quality flavor right to your kitchen.

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Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken Meatballs:

1 lb ground chicken
1 egg
⅓ cup panko breadcrumbs
2 green onions, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
1 tbsp soy sauce
½ tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
1 tbsp oil (for searing)

For the Coconut Curry Sauce:

1 tbsp oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
2 tbsp red curry paste (adjust for spice level)
1 can (13.5 oz) full-fat coconut milk
1 tbsp fish sauce or soy sauce
1 tbsp brown sugar
Juice of 1 lime
Salt to taste

Optional Garnishes & Serving Ideas:

Chopped cilantro
Fresh basil
Sliced red chili
Lime wedges
Steamed jasmine rice or rice noodles

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Instructions

Step 1: Make the Chicken Meatballs
In a mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, egg, panko, green onions, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, salt, and pepper.
Mix gently until just combined—don’t overwork.
Form into 1-inch meatballs (about 16–18 total).

Step 2: Brown the Meatballs
Heat 1 tbsp oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add meatballs and brown on all sides (about 6–8 minutes total).
Transfer browned meatballs to a plate—they’ll finish cooking in the sauce.

Step 3: Make the Coconut Curry Sauce
In the same skillet, add 1 tbsp oil and sauté the chopped onion for 3–4 minutes.
Add garlic and ginger; cook another minute.
Stir in red curry paste and cook for 30 seconds to bloom the spices.
Pour in coconut milk, fish sauce or soy sauce, brown sugar, and lime juice.
Bring to a simmer, then taste and adjust seasoning.

Step 4: Simmer the Meatballs in Sauce
Return meatballs to the skillet and gently simmer in the sauce for 10–12 minutes, or until cooked through and sauce is slightly thickened.

Step 5: Garnish & Serve
Remove from heat and garnish with cilantro, basil, or sliced chili.
Serve over jasmine rice, rice noodles, or with a side of steamed vegetables.
Add lime wedges on the side for brightness.

Notes

Don’t Overmix – Light mixing keeps meatballs tender.
Simmer Gently – Avoid boiling, which can toughen meatballs.
Use Full-Fat Coconut Milk – For a rich, creamy sauce.
Balance the Flavors – Sweet, salty, tangy, and spicy should all shine.
Customize the Heat – Add more curry paste or chili for spice lovers.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Cuisine: Thai-Inspired