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In recent years, meatballs have transcended their traditional roles, moving beyond classic Italian spaghetti and meatballs to embrace flavors from around the globe. Their adaptability allows cooks to experiment with various meats, spices, and sauces, making them a beloved dish across diverse cultures. Firecracker Chicken Meatballs stand out in this trend by combining the lean protein of ground chicken with vibrant Asian-inspired flavors, making them a nutritious and exciting option that satisfies a wide range of palates.

Firecracker Chicken Meatballs

Dive into the fiery and flavorful world of Firecracker Chicken Meatballs! This recipe combines lean ground chicken with Asian-inspired spices, creating a delicious balance of sweet and spicy that's perfect for effortless entertaining or a cozy dinner. With a crispy exterior thanks to panko breadcrumbs and a tantalizing firecracker sauce, these meatballs will keep your taste buds guessing. They're versatile enough for appetizers, main courses, or party platters. Get ready to impress your family and friends!

Ingredients
  

1 lb ground chicken

1/2 cup Panko breadcrumbs (for added crunch)

1/4 cup green onions, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 large egg, beaten

1 tbsp soy sauce

1 tbsp sesame oil

1 tsp fresh ginger, grated

1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper

1/2 tsp salt

1/4 cup sweet chili sauce

1 tbsp Sriracha (adjust according to your spice preference)

1 tbsp rice vinegar

Sesame seeds and additional chopped green onions for garnish

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to make cleanup easier once you’re done cooking.

    Prepare the Meatball Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, Panko breadcrumbs, chopped green onions, minced garlic, beaten egg, soy sauce, sesame oil, grated ginger, black pepper, and salt. Use your hands or a spatula to mix the ingredients thoroughly until the mixture is well integrated and holds together.

      Form the Meatballs: With your hands, take portions of the meat mixture and roll them into small balls, approximately 1 inch in diameter. Place the formed meatballs on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring there is enough space between each ball to allow for even cooking.

        Bake the Meatballs: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. The meatballs should turn a lovely golden brown and be fully cooked (ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F/74°C).

          Make the Firecracker Sauce: While the meatballs are baking, make the firecracker sauce. In a small saucepan set over medium heat, combine the sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and rice vinegar. Whisk the mixture together and let it simmer for about 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.

            Glaze the Meatballs: Once the meatballs are cooked, carefully remove them from the oven. Using a brush or a spoon, coat each meatball with the warm firecracker sauce. Gently toss the meatballs in the sauce to ensure they’re evenly covered.

              Serve: Transfer the glazed meatballs to a serving platter. For a beautiful presentation, garnish with sesame seeds and extra chopped green onions. Serve them immediately with toothpicks for easy eating, or place them over a bed of rice or mixed greens for a delightful and complete meal.

                Prep Time: 15 min | Total Time: 40 min | Servings: 4