Why You’ll Love Coconut Thai Chicken Meatballs Recipe
These meatballs are juicy, easy to make, and full of fresh flavor from ginger, garlic, lime, cilantro, and spring onions. The coconut curry sauce is creamy, slightly sweet, lightly spicy, and perfect for spooning over rice. It is also a great weeknight dinner because it comes together in about 40 minutes and serves four people.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the meatballs:
500 g chicken or turkey mince
1 small courgette / zucchini, grated and well squeezed
1 medium carrot, grated
2 spring onions / scallions, finely sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp ginger paste
1 tsp chilli paste
1 tbsp soy sauce
1 large egg
Juice of 1/2 lime
2 tbsp breadcrumbs
1/2 tsp salt
For the coconut curry sauce:
1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
1 garlic clove, minced
1 tsp ginger paste
2 tbsp soy sauce
2 tbsp red Thai curry paste
1 can coconut milk
Juice of 1/2 lime
120 ml chicken broth
1 tbsp honey
2 spring onions / scallions, sliced
Small handful fresh coriander / cilantro, chopped
For serving:
Steamed rice
Chopped cilantro
Sliced chilli
Directions
Add all the meatball ingredients to a large bowl. Mix gently until just combined, being careful not to overwork the mixture.
Divide the mixture into 12 to 15 equal portions and roll into meatballs. Heat a little oil in a large pan over medium heat. Cook the meatballs for about 10 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden. Remove them from the pan and set aside.
In the same pan, add the sliced red pepper and cook for 5 minutes until slightly softened. Add the garlic, ginger, soy sauce, coconut milk, red Thai curry paste, lime juice, chicken broth, and honey. Stir well and simmer over medium heat for 10 minutes. Stir in the spring onions and coriander.
Return the meatballs to the pan. Simmer for another 10 minutes, or until the sauce thickens slightly and coats the meatballs.
Serve hot with steamed rice, chopped cilantro, and sliced red chilli on top.
Servings and timing
Servings: 4
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Variations
Use turkey mince instead of chicken for a slightly richer flavor. For extra vegetables, add baby spinach, peas, mushrooms, or green beans to the sauce. For a spicier version, increase the chilli paste or add extra sliced chilli. For a milder dish, use less red Thai curry paste and skip the chilli topping.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a pan over medium-low heat until warmed through, adding a splash of broth or water if the sauce thickens too much. You can also microwave individual portions until hot.
Freeze the cooked meatballs and sauce for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
FAQs
Can I use turkey instead of chicken?
Yes, turkey mince works very well in this recipe and gives the meatballs a slightly richer taste.
Do I have to squeeze the zucchini?
Yes, squeezing out excess moisture helps keep the meatballs firm and prevents them from becoming too soft.
Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?
Yes, you can shape the meatballs ahead and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before cooking.
Can I bake the meatballs instead?
Yes, bake them at 200°C / 400°F for about 15 to 18 minutes, then simmer them in the sauce.
Is this recipe spicy?
It is mildly spicy, but you can adjust the chilli paste and curry paste to suit your taste.
Can I use light coconut milk?
Yes, but the sauce will be less creamy than with full-fat coconut milk.
What can I serve with these meatballs?
Steamed rice is ideal, but you can also serve them with noodles, cauliflower rice, or a simple cucumber salad.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and gluten-free soy sauce or tamari.
How do I know the meatballs are cooked?
They should be firm, no longer pink in the center, and fully heated through.
Can I add more sauce?
Yes, add extra coconut milk and chicken broth if you prefer a saucier dish.
Conclusion
Coconut Thai Chicken Meatballs are a comforting, flavorful meal with tender meatballs and a creamy coconut curry sauce. They are simple enough for a weeknight dinner but delicious enough to serve when you want something special.
