Exotic Thai Chicken Meatballs in Silky Peanut Sauce

Introduction

Take your taste buds on a trip to Thailand with these Exotic Thai Chicken Meatballs in Silky Peanut Sauce! These tender, aromatic meatballs are infused with lemongrass, ginger, and garlic, then smothered in a luscious, creamy peanut sauce that’s sweet, spicy, and utterly addictive.

Perfect as an appetizer, party snack, or even a main course served over rice or noodles, this dish brings bold Southeast Asian flavors to your table with minimal effort. Let’s dive into this irresistible recipe that’s sure to become a new favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bursting with Thai flavors – A perfect balance of sweet, savory, and spicy.
• Creamy, dreamy peanut sauce – Silky smooth with just the right amount of richness.
• Versatile serving options – Great as finger food, over rice, or with noodles.
• Meal-prep friendly – Make ahead and reheat beautifully.
• Crowd-pleaser – Guaranteed to disappear fast at parties!

Step-by-Step Recipe

Ingredients

For the Chicken Meatballs:

• 1 lb ground chicken (or turkey for variation)
• 1 egg, lightly beaten
• ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
• 1 stalk lemongrass, finely minced (or 1 tsp lemongrass paste)
• 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 tbsp fish sauce (or soy sauce for gluten-free)
• 1 tsp brown sugar
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• 1 tbsp lime juice
• Salt & pepper, to taste

For the Peanut Sauce:

• ½ cup creamy peanut butter
• 1 (14 oz) can coconut milk
• 2 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• 1 tbsp honey (or maple syrup for vegan)
• 1 tbsp lime juice
• 1 tsp sriracha (adjust for spice level)
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
• ¼ cup water (as needed for thinning)

For Garnish & Serving:

• Fresh cilantro, chopped
• Crushed peanuts
• Lime wedges
• Steamed jasmine rice or rice noodles

Step 1: Make the Meatballs

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, combine ground chicken, egg, panko, garlic, ginger, lemongrass, cilantro, fish sauce, brown sugar, red pepper flakes, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Mix gently (don’t overwork).
3. Roll into 1-inch meatballs (about 20–24) and place on the baking sheet.
4. Bake for 15–18 minutes until golden and cooked through (internal temp: 165°F).

Step 2: Prepare the Peanut Sauce

1. In a saucepan over medium heat, whisk together peanut butter, coconut milk, soy sauce, honey, lime juice, sriracha, garlic, and ginger.
2. Simmer for 5–7 minutes, stirring often, until smooth and slightly thickened.
3. Add water as needed to reach a silky consistency.

Step 3: Combine & Serve

1. Toss the baked meatballs in the warm peanut sauce.
2. Garnish with cilantro, crushed peanuts, and lime wedges.
3. Serve over steamed rice or noodles, or as an appetizer with toothpicks.

Pro Tip: For extra caramelization, broil the meatballs for 1–2 minutes before saucing!

FAQs

Q: Can I make these ahead?

A: Yes! Bake meatballs and store separately from sauce; reheat together before serving.

Q: How do I make them gluten-free?

A: Use tamari instead of soy sauce and gluten-free breadcrumbs.

Q: Can I use a different protein?

A: Ground turkey, pork, or even plant-based crumbles work well.

Q: How spicy is this dish?

A: Adjust sriracha and red pepper flakes to your preference.

Q: What if my sauce is too thick?

A: Thin with extra coconut milk or water until desired consistency.

Tips for Success

• Don’t overmix – Keeps meatballs tender.
• Toast the peanuts – Adds extra crunch and flavor.
• Use full-fat coconut milk – For the creamiest sauce.
• Double the sauce – It’s that good!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overbaking meatballs – They’ll dry out.
• Using chunky peanut butter – Smooth works best for silky texture.
• Skipping the garnish – Fresh herbs and lime brighten the dish.

Conclusion

These Thai Chicken Meatballs in Peanut Sauce are a flavor explosion—tender, aromatic, and smothered in a sauce you’ll want to eat by the spoonful. Whether you’re hosting a party or just craving something exotic, this dish delivers big on taste with minimal effort.

Exotic Thai Chicken Meatballs in Silky Peanut Sauce

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• Author: Lara Smith
• Total Time: 20 mins

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Description

These Thai-inspired chicken meatballs are served with a creamy and flavorful peanut sauce, making them a perfect appetizer or main dish. Packed with fresh herbs and spices, they’re sure to delight your taste buds.

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Ingredients

Ground chicken: 1 lb

Breadcrumbs: 1/2 cup

Fresh cilantro: 1/4 cup, chopped

Garlic: 2 cloves, minced

Ginger: 1 tablespoon, grated

Soy sauce: 1 tablespoon

Fish sauce: 1 tablespoon

Sesame oil: 1 teaspoon

Chili flakes: 1/2 teaspoon

Salt and pepper: to taste

Egg: 1, lightly beaten

Vegetable oil: 2 tablespoons

For the Peanut Sauce:

Peanut butter: 1/2 cup

Coconut milk: 1/4 cup

Soy sauce: 2 tablespoons

Honey: 1 tablespoon

Lime juice: 1 tablespoon

Ginger: 1 teaspoon, grated

Garlic: 1 clove, minced

Chili flakes: 1/2 teaspoon (optional)

Water: as needed to adjust consistency

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Instructions

Mix chicken, breadcrumbs, cilantro, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, fish sauce, sesame oil, chili flakes, salt, pepper, and egg. Form into meatballs.

Fry meatballs in vegetable oil until golden and cooked through.

In a saucepan, combine all peanut sauce ingredients and cook until smooth. Adjust consistency with water.

Serve meatballs drizzled with peanut sauce and garnish with peanuts, green onions, cilantro, and lime wedges.