Curry Chicken Meatballs
There’s something incredibly satisfying about biting into a warm, juicy meatball. When I first tried making Curry Chicken Meatballs at home, I was instantly hooked. The rich aroma of spices mingling in the kitchen transported me to a lively market in Southeast Asia. Each meatball bursts with flavor—it’s like a small celebration on a plate! Growing up, we often enjoyed meatballs, but this unique twist was a game changer. The combination of succulent ground chicken and fragrant curry powder creates a delightful experience that’s both comforting and exotic. Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, these meatballs have become a staple in my home.
Recipe Snapshot
30 mins
10 mins
20 mins
Medium
350 kcal
26 g
Keto
18 g
Baking Sheet, Cookie Portion Scoop
What You’ll Enjoy About This Curry Chicken Meatballs
Unique Flavor Profile
What sets Curry Chicken Meatballs apart is their incredible flavor. The use of curry powder and red curry paste infuses the meatballs with a delightful warmth that traditional meatballs lack. You’ll savor a taste of faraway lands with each bite.
Easy to Prepare
These meatballs are surprisingly simple to make! Even if you’re new to cooking, the steps are straightforward. The combination of ground chicken, breadcrumbs, and spices requires minimal effort, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights.
Versatile Dish
One of my favorite aspects of Curry Chicken Meatballs is their versatility. They pair beautifully with rice, Naan bread, or even a fresh salad. This means you can easily adapt them to fit any meal or dietary preference.
Meal Prep Friendly
These meatballs are ideal for meal prep! You can make a large batch in advance, and they store wonderfully in the fridge or freezer. I often prepare them a day or two ahead of time, saving precious minutes during the week.
Family Approved
Trust me, you’ll win over even the pickiest eaters with these Curry Chicken Meatballs. Their unique flavor makes them exciting, while the comforting texture keeps everyone coming back for seconds.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether it’s a weeknight dinner, a game day feast, or a cozy get-together, these meatballs fit right in. They add a touch of exotic flair to any meal and are sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients Required for Curry Chicken Meatballs

The ingredients for Curry Chicken Meatballs are not just basic staples; they come together to create a symphony of flavors. The star ingredient, ground chicken, provides a tender base, while curry powder and red curry paste infuse warmth and depth. Each element plays a vital role, from the binding strength of breadcrumbs to the aromatic brightness of fresh cilantro.
- 1 pound ground chicken: The main protein that keeps the meatballs tender and juicy.
- ½ cup plain breadcrumbs: Helps bind the meatballs together, giving them a perfect texture.
- 1 large egg: Acts as a binder, ensuring the meatballs hold their shape during cooking.
- 1 teaspoon curry powder: Provides a warm, aromatic flavor, setting the foundation for the dish.
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the meatballs.
- ⅛ teaspoon ground black pepper: Adds a subtle kick to the meatballs without overpowering them.
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic: Infuses a robust flavor that complements the spices.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro: Brightens the dish with its fresh and herbal notes.
- Olive oil (optional, for drizzling): Adds moisture and helps achieve a golden-brown finish.
- 3-4 teaspoons red curry paste: Packs a punch of flavor and heat, enhancing the dish’s authenticity.
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic: A second dose of garlic for extra flavor.
- 1½ tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce: Adds a savory depth and umami taste to the sauce.
- 13.6 ounces light coconut milk (1 can): Creates a creamy sauce that balances the spices perfectly.
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro: Used for garnish, adding a fresh touch just before serving.
How to Prepare Curry Chicken Meatballs

Making Curry Chicken Meatballs is an enjoyable experience that fills your kitchen with delightful aromas. Follow these steps to create a dish that’s sure to impress your family and friends. Let’s dive into the preparation.
Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. This initial step ensures that your meatballs cook evenly and develop a lovely golden color.
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. This simple step makes it a breeze to transfer the meatballs once they’re ready.
In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 pound of ground chicken, ½ cup of plain breadcrumbs, 1 large egg, 1 teaspoon of curry powder, ½ teaspoon of kosher salt, ⅛ teaspoon of ground black pepper, 2 teaspoons of minced garlic, and 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh cilantro. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything together thoroughly.
Using a medium cookie scoop, portion out the meat mixture and roll it into balls using your hands. Aim for about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter for even cooking.
Place the meatballs onto the prepared baking sheet. If desired, drizzle a small amount of olive oil over them. This will help them brown and add extra flavor.
Bake the meatballs for 10 minutes. After 10 minutes, carefully turn them over and continue baking for another 5 to 10 minutes until they are golden brown and have reached an internal temperature of 170 degrees Fahrenheit.
While the meatballs are baking, prepare the curry sauce in a large skillet. On medium heat, sauté 3 to 4 teaspoons of red curry paste and 1 teaspoon of minced garlic until fragrant, which should take about 1 minute. This step releases the aromatic oils in the spices.
Whisk in 13.6 ounces of light coconut milk and 1½ tablespoons of low-sodium soy sauce. Stir well to combine and then reduce the heat to medium-low, letting it simmer until the sauce thickens slightly, which should take about 10 minutes.
Once the meatballs are done baking, remove them from the oven and add them to the curry sauce, stirring gently to coat them evenly. Heat on low until everything is warmed through, allowing the flavors to meld.
Serve your Curry Chicken Meatballs over rice, alongside Naan bread, and garnish with additional chopped cilantro for a vibrant presentation.
Things Worth Knowing
- Don’t overmix: When combining the meatball ingredients, be careful not to overwork the mixture, as this can lead to tough meatballs.
- Temperature matters: Always ensure your meatballs reach an internal temperature of 170 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure they are fully cooked.
- Freezing tips: If you want to prepare these meatballs ahead of time, freeze them uncooked. Just bake them directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
- Adapt the spice level: Feel free to adjust the amount of red curry paste to suit your heat preferences.
Tips and Variations

Enhancing your culinary experience with Curry Chicken Meatballs can be fun and creative. Here are some tips to consider:
- Storage: Leftover meatballs can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
- Freezing: These meatballs freeze well! Place them in a freezer-safe bag, and they can last for up to three months.
- Pairing: For a complete meal, serve with jasmine rice or a fresh salad.
- Variations: Try adding chopped vegetables like carrots or bell peppers to the meat mixture for added nutrition and flavor.
- Serving suggestion: These meatballs are also fantastic in a sub sandwich topped with fresh greens and a drizzle of yogurt sauce!
- Garnish: A squeeze of fresh lime juice before serving can brighten the dish beautifully.
Perfect Matches for Curry Chicken Meatballs
When it comes to serving Curry Chicken Meatballs, the possibilities are nearly endless. Here are some excellent options to consider:
- Steamed Rice: Serve the meatballs over fluffy jasmine or basmati rice to soak up the delicious curry sauce.
- Naan Bread: This soft Indian bread is perfect for scooping up meatballs and sauce, enhancing the dining experience.
- Fresh Salad: A crisp salad can balance the richness of the meatballs. Consider a cucumber and tomato salad with a light dressing.
- Vegetable Stir-Fry: Pairing with a simple stir-fry adds color and variety to your plate.
- Special Occasions: These meatballs work beautifully for gatherings and parties, adding an exotic flair to any menu.
- Meal Prep: Make a large batch and portion them for lunches throughout the week. They keep well in the fridge!
FAQ
Conclusion
Curry Chicken Meatballs are not just a meal; they’re a flavorful journey that brings warmth and comfort to the table. With their tender texture and aromatic spices, they’re bound to impress anyone who tries them. I encourage you to give this recipe a go, and I promise it will become a favorite in your home. Enjoy cooking and savor every delightful bite!

Curry Chicken Meatballs
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, plain breadcrumbs, egg, curry powder, kosher salt, ground black pepper, minced garlic, and chopped fresh cilantro. Mix well.
- Using a medium cookie scoop, portion out the meat mixture and roll it into balls.
- Place the meatballs onto the prepared baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil if desired.
- Bake the meatballs for 10 minutes. After 10 minutes, turn them over and bake for another 5-10 minutes until golden brown.
- While the meatballs are baking, prepare the curry sauce by sautéing red curry paste and minced garlic in a skillet.
- Whisk in light coconut milk and low-sodium soy sauce, then simmer until the sauce thickens.
- Once the meatballs are done, add them to the curry sauce and stir gently to coat.
- Serve the meatballs over rice and garnish with chopped cilantro.
Notes
- Tip 1: Meatballs can be made ahead of time or the day before. Store covered in refrigerator until ready to cook.
- Tip 2: Don’t overwork the meat mixture when shaping the meatballs.
- Tip 3: A cookie scoop is used to help keep the size of the meatballs consistent.
- Tip 4: Reheat leftovers in a skillet or the microwave.


