Asian chicken meatballs with cashews

Experience the mouthwatering flavors of Asian chicken meatballs, baked to perfection for a burst of Chinese goodness in every bite. Easy, tasty, and sure to become a go-to in your home cooking lineup!

Whenever craving something deliciously different for dinner, these Asian chicken meatballs are a culinary adventure you won’t want to miss! Baked to perfection, they offer a healthier twist on traditional Chinese meatballs, allowing you to indulge in rich flavors without the guilt. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer or the main event, these meatballs are sure to wow your taste buds with their mix of flavors and textures.

These baked chicken meatballs are the ultimate easy gourmet dish you can whip up at home. With their savory, umami-packed flavor, they make a meal that’s both wholesome and satisfying. Baking them keeps them lighter than fried versions, but they’re still as delicious as any classic Chinese dish. Plus, they’re super versatile—pair them with your favorite sides or enjoy them solo as a protein-rich snack.

How to make Asian chicken meatballs

Ingredients

For the Chicken Meatballs:

• Ground chicken: The foundation of our meatballs, offering a lean protein packed with flavor.
• Garlic cloves: Infuses an aromatic undertone that enhances the flavors.
• Medium eggs: Helps bind the meatballs together for a firm texture.
• Panko bread crumbs: Provides a crispy, delicate texture to each bite.
• Sea salt: Essential for seasoning, bringing out the best in the other ingredients.
• Ground black pepper: Adds a subtle heat and complexity.
• Soy sauce: Introduces a rich, umami essence characteristic of Asian cuisine.
• Green bell pepper, diced: Adds a fresh crunch and slight sweetness.
• Cashew nuts: Offers a delightful nutty flavor and a pleasant texture contrast.

For the Sauce:

• Soy sauce: Acts as a savory base, full of depth.
• Oyster sauce: Adds a touch of sweetness and a robust seafood flavor.
• Sesame oil: Provides a distinct nutty aroma that’s quintessential in Asian dishes.

Substitutes

If you don’t have some of the ingredients on hand, don’t worry! There are some substitutes you can use to still make delicious Asian chicken meatballs. Here are a few suggestions:

• Ground turkey or beef for the ground chicken.
• Breadcrumbs instead of panko breadcrumbs.
• Red bell pepper in place of green bell pepper.
• Peanuts instead of cashews.

Equipment

• Large baking dish: Ideal for evenly spacing meatballs for uniform cooking.
• Mixing bowls: Necessary for thoroughly combining all the ingredients and making the sauce.
• Oven: Ensures the meatballs are cooked perfectly, with a golden exterior and tender interior.

Instructions to cook the Asian chicken meatballs

Preparations

Begin by gathering all ingredients and equipment. Preheat the oven to 375 F. Grease a large baking dish with a bit of oil. Dice the bell pepper and mince the garlic cloves, setting them aside for your mixture.

Cooking

1. In a large bowl, combine all meatball ingredients except the bell pepper and cashew nuts. Scoop about 1 ½ tablespoons of chicken mixture and roll into meatballs. You will get 20 meatballs.
2. Arrange them on the baking dish and bake in the oven for 15 minutes. Open the oven and carefully pull out the baking dish. Sprinkle diced bell pepper around them. Bake in the oven for 10 minutes more.
3. Meanwhile, prepare the sauce. In a small bowl, stir together soy sauce, oyster sauce and sesame oil. Pull out the baking dish again and pour sauce on the meatballs. Sprinkle cashew nuts. Toss with a wooden spoon and bake again in the oven for 5 minutes.
4. Remove, garnish and serve with rice.

Tips

• Don’t overcrowd the meatballs in the baking dish. This will help them cook evenly and achieve a crispy exterior.
• For added flavor, mix in a tablespoon of grated ginger to the meatball mixture before cooking.

Recipe Variations

These Asian chicken meatballs are highly versatile, and you can easily add your own twist to suit your taste preferences. Here are some exciting variations:

• Swap out the cashew nuts with peanuts for a more traditional Chinese flavor profile.
• Use ground turkey or beef instead of chicken for a different protein option.
• Substitute the green bell pepper with red or yellow bell pepper to add a sweeter taste and vibrant color.
• Experiment with different herbs, like cilantro or basil, to introduce new flavor dimensions.
• Additionally, you can try incorporating a touch of spice by adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce into the sauce mixture for a spicier kick.

What to serve with

Pair these delectable meatballs with a variety of accompaniments to create a complete meal. Here are some ideas to get you started:

• Serve them over cauliflower rice or noodles for a complete meal.
• Add them to a stir-fry with your favorite vegetables and sauce.
• Use them as an appetizer with a dipping sauce, such as sweet and sour or teriyaki.
• Serve them with Asian green beans for a tasty and spicy side dish.

With just a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you can create these flavorful Asian chicken meatballs in no time. They make the perfect addition to any meal, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a festive gathering. So why not take your taste buds on an adventure and give this recipe a try? Trust us, they won’t disappoint! Happy cooking!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?

Yes, these Asian chicken meatballs can be prepared ahead. You can mix the chicken meatball ingredients and form the meatballs a day in advance. Arrange them on the baking dish, cover with plastic wrap, and store in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to cook, simply bake them according to the instructions.

Preparing the sauce ahead is also a time-saver—store it in a separate container and add it during the last stage of baking. This makes the dish an excellent choice for meal prep or hosting dinner parties without the hassle.

Can I make these meatballs gluten-free?

Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe to be gluten-free by swapping the Panko bread crumbs with a gluten-free alternative, such as almond flour or crushed rice crackers. Make sure to also use gluten-free soy sauce and oyster sauce in the sauce mixture.

Storing and reheating

Store any leftover meatballs in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them on a baking sheet and warm in the oven until heated through.

Freezing the meatballs is also an option – place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for 30 minutes before transferring to a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat from frozen, bake in the oven at 375 F for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.

More recipes you’ll enjoy

• Crispy sesame chicken strips
• Kung Pao Chicken Stir-Fry
• Instant Pot Thai peanut noodles
• Instant Pot Korean beef and rice
• Slow cooker Asian meatballs appetizers

Serving Size

This recipe yields approximately 15-20 meatballs, serving about 4 people as a main course or 6 as an appetizer. You can easily scale the ingredients by doubling the quantities for larger gatherings or scaling them down for a more intimate setting. Remember to adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure the meatballs are cooked through to perfection.

Whether you’re having friends over or just want a nice family dinner, these meatballs are a tasty mix of flavors and textures that you’ll love. Try out different variations to find your favorite combo. Happy cooking!