Honey Garlic Teriyaki Chicken Meatballs

If you’re looking for a dish that brings everyone to the table with smiles and satisfied appetites, then you’ve found it! These Honey Garlic Teriyaki Chicken Meatballs are an absolute favorite in my home. They’re juicy, tender, and coated in a delicious homemade teriyaki sauce that’s so good, you might find yourself licking the plate clean. Whether it’s a busy weeknight, a family gathering, or even meal prep for the week ahead, this recipe fits perfectly into any occasion.

What I love most about these meatballs is how simple they are to make. Plus, they deliver on flavor without requiring hours in the kitchen. You can whip them up quickly and enjoy a comforting meal that feels special.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With only 30 minutes from start to finish, this recipe is perfect for those busy evenings.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves meatballs! These are sure to please both kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare the meatballs in advance and just cook them when you’re ready.
• Flavor-Packed: The combination of honey and garlic creates a sweet and savory sauce that is simply irresistible.
• Versatile: Serve over rice, in lettuce wraps, or as appetizers—there are endless possibilities!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering wholesome ingredients is half the fun! These simple items come together beautifully to create your Honey Garlic Teriyaki Chicken Meatballs. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Meatballs

• 1 lb ground chicken
• 1 egg
• 1/2 cup bread crumbs
• 1/2 small yellow onion, finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• Salt, to taste
• Fresh cracked black pepper, to taste
• 2 Tbsp chopped chives

For Cooking

• 2 tbsp vegetable oil

For the Teriyaki Sauce

• 2 Tbsp rice vinegar
• 3/4 cup low sodium soy sauce
• 1/2 cup low sodium chicken stock
• 1/3 cup honey
• 6 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp grated ginger

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily swap out ingredients or tweak flavors to suit your preferences. Here are some fun ideas:

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or beef instead of chicken for a different taste.
• Add veggies: Mix in finely chopped bell peppers or carrots for added nutrition and crunch.
• Spice it up: Add crushed red pepper flakes or sriracha for a spicy kick!
• Go gluten-free: Substitute regular soy sauce with tamari for a gluten-free version.

How to Make Honey Garlic Teriyaki Chicken Meatballs

Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture

Start by combining all ingredients for the chicken meatballs in a large mixing bowl. It’s important to mix well until everything is evenly combined. This ensures each bite of your meatball will be packed with flavor!

Step 2: Cook the Meatballs

Preheat a medium cooking pan over medium heat. Roll your mixture into 1-inch meatballs and add vegetable oil to the pan. Cooking them covered at first helps keep them moist. After about 7 minutes, turn them over and cook uncovered until they’re almost done—this gives them a nice golden color.

Step 3: Make the Teriyaki Sauce

While your meatballs are cooking, whisk together all ingredients for the teriyaki sauce in a bowl. Once your meatballs are nearly cooked through, pour this flavorful sauce into the pan. This step allows your meatballs to soak up all that deliciousness while finishing their cooking process.

Step 4: Simmer and Combine

After removing the cooked meatballs from the pan, let the teriyaki sauce simmer until it thickens slightly. This enhances its richness and flavor. Finally, toss those beautiful meatballs back into the sauce so they are fully coated in that sweet garlic goodness.

And there you have it! Your Honey Garlic Teriyaki Chicken Meatballs are ready to be devoured. Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Honey Garlic Teriyaki Chicken Meatballs

Cooking should be fun and rewarding, so here are some handy tips to elevate your Honey Garlic Teriyaki Chicken Meatballs to the next level!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic and ginger will enhance the flavor of your meatballs significantly. Dried spices simply won’t provide that vibrant taste that fresh ingredients can bring.

• Don’t overcrowd the pan: When cooking your meatballs, give them space in the pan. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of browning, which means you’ll miss out on that delicious caramelization.

• Adjust sweetness to taste: Honey is naturally sweet, but if you prefer a less sweet sauce, feel free to reduce the amount of honey or balance it with a touch more soy sauce. Finding the right balance will make this dish perfect for your palate.

• Make ahead for meal prep: These meatballs store well, making them great for meal prep! Cook a big batch and refrigerate or freeze them. They’ll save you time during busy weekdays.

• Experiment with herbs: Don’t hesitate to add different herbs or spices to your meatball mixture. Fresh cilantro or parsley can give an extra layer of flavor and freshness that complements the teriyaki sauce beautifully.

How to Serve Honey Garlic Teriyaki Chicken Meatballs

Serving your Honey Garlic Teriyaki Chicken Meatballs can be as creative as you like! Here are some delightful ideas to present this dish beautifully at your next gathering or dinner table.

Garnishes

• Chopped green onions: Sprinkle finely chopped green onions over the top for a pop of color and an added crunch.
• Sesame seeds: Toasted sesame seeds not only add a nutty flavor but also make the dish visually appealing.
• Fresh parsley or cilantro: A sprinkle of fresh herbs can brighten up the dish and provide a refreshing contrast to the rich teriyaki sauce.

Side Dishes

• Steamed jasmine rice: Fluffy jasmine rice is a classic pairing with teriyaki dishes, soaking up all that delicious sauce while adding a subtle fragrance.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like broccoli, carrots, or bell peppers complement the savory flavors of the meatballs while adding vibrant colors to your plate.
• Asian slaw: A crunchy slaw made with cabbage, carrots, and a tangy vinaigrette adds freshness and texture that balances out the richness of the meatballs.
• Quinoa salad: A light quinoa salad tossed with cucumber, bell peppers, and a citrus dressing provides a healthy and hearty side that pairs perfectly with this dish.

Enjoy creating and serving these scrumptious Honey Garlic Teriyaki Chicken Meatballs! They are sure to impress family and friends alike.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Honey Garlic Teriyaki Chicken Meatballs are perfect for meal prep, making it easy to whip up delicious and healthy meals throughout the week. You can store them in the fridge or freeze them for later, ensuring you have a quick and satisfying option on hand whenever hunger strikes.

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• They will keep well for up to 3-4 days.
• To maintain their flavor, you can also store the teriyaki sauce separately.

Freezing

• Allow cooked meatballs to cool completely before freezing.
• Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer the frozen meatballs to a freezer-safe bag or container, and label with the date. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat meatballs in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep them moist.
• Alternatively, you can microwave them in short increments (30 seconds at a time) until heated through.
• If reheating from frozen, allow extra time and consider thawing overnight in the fridge beforehand.

FAQs

Have questions about these delightful meatballs? Here are some common ones!

Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken for Honey Garlic Teriyaki Chicken Meatballs?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute for chicken and will work just as well in this recipe. Just follow the same instructions for preparation.

How long do Honey Garlic Teriyaki Chicken Meatballs last in the fridge?

Honey Garlic Teriyaki Chicken Meatballs can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Just make sure they’re kept in an airtight container to retain their moisture and flavor.

What can I serve with Honey Garlic Teriyaki Chicken Meatballs?

These meatballs pair perfectly with steamed rice, quinoa, or even zoodles (zucchini noodles). You could also serve them as an appetizer with toothpicks for dipping into extra teriyaki sauce!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Honey Garlic Teriyaki Chicken Meatballs! They are not only flavorful but also incredibly versatile for any meal occasion—whether it’s a cozy family dinner or meal prep for busy weekdays. Enjoy every bite, and don’t hesitate to share your experience or variations you try. Happy cooking!