Description
These Coconut Chicken Meatballs are a deliciously juicy and flavorful twist on the classic meatball. Packed with the tropical sweetness of coconut, seasoned with aromatic spices, and baked to perfection, these meatballs are perfect for a light dinner, appetizer, or as a fun meal prep option.
Ingredients
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground chicken – The base of the meatballs.
- 1/2 cup shredded unsweetened coconut – Adds texture and sweetness.
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs – Helps bind the meatballs together.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Adds a savory depth.
- 1 egg – To bind the mixture.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – For a bit of aromatic flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger – Adds a warm, spicy note.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground coriander – For a citrusy, slightly sweet flavor.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt – To season the meatballs.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper – For a little kick.
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped – Adds freshness and color.
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil – For greasing the baking sheet.
For the Dipping Sauce (Optional):
- 1/4 cup coconut milk – Adds creaminess.
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce – For saltiness and umami.
- 1 tablespoon honey – For sweetness.
- 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes – For a bit of heat (optional).
- Juice of 1 lime – For brightness.
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly grease with coconut oil.
Step 2: Prepare the Meatball Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, shredded coconut, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, egg, garlic, ginger, coriander, salt, pepper, and cilantro. Mix everything together until well combined. Be careful not to overwork the mixture to keep the meatballs tender.
Step 3: Form the Meatballs
Use a spoon or cookie scoop to portion out the meatball mixture, rolling it into 1-inch balls and placing them on the prepared baking sheet.
Step 4: Bake the Meatballs
Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).
Step 5: Make the Dipping Sauce (Optional)
While the meatballs bake, combine the coconut milk, soy sauce, honey, chili flakes (if using), and lime juice in a small saucepan. Heat over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through and slightly thickened. Remove from heat.
Step 6: Serve & Enjoy
Once the meatballs are done, serve them warm with the dipping sauce on the side, or drizzle the sauce over the top. Garnish with extra cilantro for added color and flavor.
Notes
- Don’t overmix the meatball mixture to keep the meatballs tender.
- Use fresh ground chicken if possible for a more juicy, tender texture.
- Make them ahead of time: You can form the meatballs and freeze them before baking. Simply bake from frozen, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time.
- Adjust the spice: Add more chili flakes or fresh chili to the dipping sauce if you like extra heat.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Cuisine: Fusion (Caribbean/Asian)