Name: Chicken Meatballs With Honey Garlic Soy
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Asian-inspired
Ingredients: 1 lb (500 g) ground chicken (chicken mince); 1 egg; ½ cup + 2 tbsp breadcrumbs (gluten-free, regular, or Panko); ½ tsp garlic powder; ½ tsp onion powder; ½ tsp salt; ¼ tsp white pepper; 1–2 tbsp olive oil (for cooking); 2 tsp butter; 2 cloves garlic, finely diced; 2 tbsp soy sauce; 2 tbsp honey; ¼ cup water; 1 spring onion, chopped (for garnish)

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These chicken meatballs are tender on the inside and glazed with a deliciously sticky sauce that balances sweet, savory, and garlicky flavors. They’re easy to make in under 30 minutes, making them perfect for busy weeknights. Plus, you can serve them with rice, noodles, or steamed veggies, so they’re versatile enough to fit into any dinner plan.

Chicken Meatballs With Honey Garlic Soy

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the meatballs:

1 lb ground chicken (500 grams, chicken mince)
1 egg
½ cup + 2 tbsp breadcrumbs (gluten-free, regular, or Panko)
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon white pepper
1–2 tablespoons olive oil (for cooking)

For the sauce:

2 teaspoons butter
2 cloves garlic, finely diced
2 tablespoons soy sauce
2 tablespoons honey
¼ cup water
1 spring onion, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, egg, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and white pepper. Mix gently until well incorporated. If the chicken is very lean, add 1 tablespoon olive oil to keep the mixture moist.
With wet hands, shape the mixture into small meatballs and place them on a platter.
Heat 1–2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the meatballs for 2 minutes per side, then flip and cook for another minute per side until golden. Transfer to a bowl and set aside.
In the same pan, melt butter and sauté garlic for 1 minute until fragrant and golden.
Stir in soy sauce and water, cooking for 10 seconds. Add honey, stir, and bring to a simmer. Let the sauce cook for 30 seconds to 1 minute until slightly thickened.
Return the meatballs to the pan and toss to coat them in the sauce. Let them caramelize slightly.
Serve hot, garnished with chopped spring onions.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

Swap chicken for ground turkey or beef.
Add chili flakes or sriracha to the sauce for a spicy kick.
Use maple syrup instead of honey for a different sweetness.
Mix finely chopped vegetables like carrots or zucchini into the meatball mixture for added nutrition.
Serve over noodles or quinoa instead of rice for variety.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water if needed to loosen the sauce. You can also microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through. These meatballs can be frozen for up to 2 months—store in a freezer-safe container and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

Can I bake the chicken meatballs instead of frying?

Yes, you can bake them at 400°F (200°C) for 18–20 minutes, flipping halfway through for even cooking.

Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?

Absolutely. Shape the meatballs and refrigerate them uncooked for up to 24 hours before cooking.

How do I keep chicken meatballs from drying out?

Adding a little olive oil to the mixture and not overcooking them ensures they stay juicy.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and a gluten-free soy sauce or tamari.

What can I serve with these meatballs?

They go well with steamed rice, fried rice, noodles, or stir-fried vegetables.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, this recipe doubles easily. Just make sure to cook the meatballs in batches so they brown nicely.

Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?

Yes, ground turkey works just as well and gives a similar texture.

How do I know when the meatballs are fully cooked?

They should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and no longer be pink inside.

Can I make the sauce thicker?

If you prefer a thicker sauce, simmer it for a few extra minutes or stir in a small cornstarch slurry.

Are these meatballs kid-friendly?

Yes, the mild flavors and sweet glaze make them a great option for children.

Conclusion

Chicken Meatballs With Honey Garlic Soy are a flavorful, easy-to-make dinner that’s ready in just 30 minutes. The tender meatballs and sticky-sweet sauce make them a family favorite, while their versatility ensures you can pair them with whatever sides you have on hand. Whether you’re meal prepping, feeding kids, or looking for a simple weeknight solution, this recipe is sure to please.