Glazed Chicken Meatballs Recipe – Easy, Juicy, and Packed with Flavor
If you’re searching for a quick and delicious weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing party appetizer, these Glazed Chicken Meatballs are exactly what you need. Tender ground chicken meatballs are coated in a sticky honey-soy glaze that’s sweet, savory, and absolutely irresistible.
This recipe is easy to prepare, ready in under 30 minutes, and full of flavor that everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Quick and simple prep
Sweet and tangy glaze made from pantry staples
healthier than traditional beef meatballs
Perfect for meal prep, potlucks, or family dinners
Ingredients
Before you start, gather these fresh and simple ingredients:
For the Meatballs:
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1 pound ground chicken
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1/2 cup breadcrumbs
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1 large egg
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (plus more for garnish)
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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2 tablespoons olive oil (for cooking)
For the Glaze:
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1/4 cup honey
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3 tablespoons soy sauce
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1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
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1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water
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Tip: Use low-sodium soy sauce if you prefer a lighter salt profile.
Equipment Needed
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Large mixing bowl
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Large skillet or non-stick pan
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Small bowl (for glaze)
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Tongs or spatula
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps for the juiciest glazed chicken meatballs:
Step 1 – Mix the Meatball Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine:
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1 pound ground chicken
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1/2 cup breadcrumbs
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1 egg
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2 cloves minced garlic
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1/4 cup chopped parsley
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Salt and pepper to taste
Mix with clean hands or a spoon until everything is evenly incorporated.
Pro Tip: Avoid overmixing so the meatballs stay tender.
Step 2 – Shape the Meatballs
Using your hands or a small cookie scoop, form the mixture into 1-inch balls.
Place them on a plate or tray. You should get about 20–24 small meatballs.
Step 3 – Brown the Meatballs
Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the meatballs in a single layer without overcrowding (cook in batches if needed).
Cook, turning occasionally, for 8–10 minutes, until golden brown on all sides and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
Transfer browned meatballs to a clean plate.
Step 4 – Make the Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk together:
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1/4 cup honey
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3 tablespoons soy sauce
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1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
Set aside.
Step 5 – Glaze the Meatballs
Return all the meatballs to the skillet over medium-low heat.
Pour the glaze mixture over them.
Gently stir to coat the meatballs evenly in the sauce.
Step 6 – Thicken the Sauce
Add the cornstarch slurry (1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water) into the skillet.
Continue stirring for 1–2 minutes, until the glaze thickens and becomes glossy.
Step 7 – Serve and Garnish
Remove the skillet from heat.
Sprinkle extra chopped parsley over the top for a fresh finish.
Serve immediately while hot.
Serving Suggestions
These glazed chicken meatballs are incredibly versatile. Try them with:
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Steamed white or brown rice
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Stir-fried vegetables
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Rice noodles or lo mein
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A fresh green salad
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Skewered with toothpicks as an appetizer
Variations and Tips
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Spicy Option: Add 1 teaspoon sriracha or red pepper flakes to the glaze for heat.
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Flavor Boost: Mix 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger into the meatball mixture for extra zing.
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Baked Version: Prefer less oil? Bake the meatballs at 400°F (200°C) for 15–20 minutes, until cooked through.
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Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and tamari instead of soy sauce.
Make-Ahead and Storage
Make Ahead:
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Prepare the meatballs and shape them up to 1 day in advance. Keep covered in the refrigerator until ready to cook.
Storage:
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Store cooked meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheat:
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Warm gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze these meatballs?
Yes! Cook and cool completely, then freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat.
Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?
Absolutely—ground turkey works perfectly in this recipe.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes! Just make sure to brown the meatballs in batches so they cook evenly.
Final Thoughts
This Glazed Chicken Meatballs recipe is a weeknight dinner hero—quick to make, family-friendly, and bursting with flavor. Whether you serve them over rice, noodles, or on their own, they’ll be a hit every time.
Try this recipe tonight and enjoy a delicious homemade meal in under 30 minutes!