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Classic Thai Chicken Meatballs have never been better! These meatballs have crisp edges and soft tender centers, the best savory flavor, and plenty of sauce throughout.

Your search for the most flavorful meatball recipe is finally over! This is it, the only recipe you’ll ever need.

These meatballs are 15 years in the making, since I first started this blog. I’ve cooked hundreds over the years and eventually ended up here, with the best Thai chicken meatball recipe ever. And I’m so happy to finally share this recipe with you!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Thai chicken meatballs bring fresh flavor and easy cooking together in one pan.

Juicy texture: Chicken mince stays tender with breadcrumbs and egg.

Bright flavors: Lemongrass, lime, and herbs keep each bite lively.

Quick cooking: Meatballs cook fast and need very little prep.

Balanced heat: Chillies add warmth without overwhelming spice.

Versatile meal: These work well with rice, noodles, and wraps.

Weeknight friendly: Simple steps keep stress low.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Meatballs:

500 g chicken mince
1 tablespoon lemongrass paste
1 teaspoon grated ginger
3/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
1 small egg
3 cloves garlic, minced
3 kaffir lime leaves, very finely shredded
3 Thai chillies, seeds removed and finely chopped
1/4 cup coriander leaves and stems, finely chopped
Oil spray

For the Sauce:

1 garlic clove, minced
1/2 cup sweet chilli sauce
2 tablespoons lime juice
1 teaspoon sugar
1 tablespoon fish sauce

Step by Step Instructions

1. Mix the meatball base

Place chicken mince in a large bowl. Add lemongrass paste, ginger, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, lime leaves, chillies, and coriander. Mix gently with your hands until everything comes together. Keep the movement light so the meat stays soft.

2. Shape the meatballs

Scoop small portions and roll into even balls. Aim for bite sized pieces so they cook evenly. Place them on a plate and lightly spray with oil.

3. Cook the meatballs

Heat a nonstick pan over medium heat. Add the meatballs and turn gently until all sides turn lightly golden. Cook until the centers feel firm and cooked through, then remove from the pan.

4. Start the sauce

Lower the heat slightly. Add minced garlic to the same pan and stir gently until fragrant. Keep the garlic soft and light in color.

5. Build the flavor

Pour in sweet chilli sauce, lime juice, sugar, and fish sauce. Stir well and let the sauce bubble gently for a few minutes until slightly thick.

6. Coat the meatballs

Return the meatballs to the pan. Spoon sauce over them and let everything simmer together briefly so the flavors soak in.

7. Finish and rest

Turn off the heat and let the meatballs rest in the sauce for a minute. This helps the coating cling better before serving.

Tips and Variations

Small changes can adjust the dish easily.

For milder heat, reduce the chillies slightly.
For extra citrus, add more lime juice at the end.
If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of water.
I like keeping the meatballs smaller since they absorb more sauce.

Serving Suggestions

Easy Thai Chicken Meatballs Recipe pairs beautifully with steamed rice and rice noodles. They also work well tucked into lettuce cups for a lighter plate. Spoon extra sauce over everything for maximum flavor.

When serving this at home, I usually add a simple cucumber salad on the side. The cool crunch balances the warm spices nicely.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can these meatballs be made ahead?

Yes, you can cook them earlier and reheat gently in the sauce.

Can I freeze them?

Yes, freeze cooked meatballs without sauce for best texture.

Are these very spicy?

The heat stays gentle and balanced.

Can I skip kaffir lime leaves?

Yes, though they add a unique citrus note.

How long do leftovers last?

They keep well in the fridge for up to three days.

Final Thoughts

Easy Thai Chicken Meatballs Recipe brings fresh flavor and comfort into one easy meal. The soft meatballs and bright sauce make dinner feel exciting without extra work.

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