Thai Chicken Meatballs in Coconut Curry with Garlic Butter Sauce

The scent of sizzling garlic, the richness of coconut milk, and the warm embrace of spices waft through the air, promising a delicious adventure with every bite. When you think of comfort food, these Thai Chicken Meatballs in Coconut Curry are sure to make your taste buds dance with joy. Can you hear the delightful symphony of flavors already?

Nothing quite compares to the heartwarming experience of gathering around the dinner table, where every forkful is a burst of flavor and nostalgia. These meatballs are not just a meal; they are a cozy hug for your palate, perfect for both intimate dinners and lively gatherings. Let’s dive into a recipe that will not only satisfy your hunger but also tantalize your senses.

Ingredients for Thai Chicken Meatballs in Coconut Curry

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Thai Chicken Meatballs in Coconut Curry:

1 1/2 pounds ground chicken or ground pork – For a juicy texture and flavor, opt for high-quality meat. Ground chicken is ideal for a lighter dish.
1-2 tablespoons spicy curry powder – This adds a delightful kick! Adjust according to your heat preference.
3 tablespoons tamari or soy sauce – These enhance umami flavors and provide seasoning. Use tamari for a gluten-free dish.
1 shallot, chopped – Subtle sweetness that enhances the meatballs’ flavor.
Kosher salt and black pepper – Essential for seasoning each layer of flavor.
Chili flakes – A sprinkle will provide that little extra heat!
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil – Use for greasing hands to roll meatballs without sticking.
6 tablespoons salted butter – This creates a luxurious garlic butter sauce that’s hard to resist.
1/4 cup Thai red curry paste – The heart of the dish, giving it the signature Thai flavor.
1 tablespoon fresh grated ginger – A fresh kick that pairs beautifully with the coconut and spices.
2 orange or red bell peppers, sliced – Adds vibrant color and sweet crunch to the curry.
2 cups canned full-fat coconut milk – Rich and creamy, it’s what makes the curry dreamy.
1 tablespoon fish sauce (or soy sauce) – For depth of flavor, add fish sauce or your soy alternative.
1/2 cup chopped Thai basil or cilantro – For a fresh finish! Use your favorite herb to brighten up the dish.
3-4 cloves garlic, chopped – Because more garlic is never a bad idea, and it adds depth.
Limes, for serving – A squeeze of lime brightens it all up!

How to Make Thai Chicken Meatballs in Coconut Curry

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Thai Chicken Meatballs in Coconut Curry:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 450 degrees F (232 degrees C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to keep the meatballs from sticking.

Step 2: Mix the Meatball Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken or pork, spicy curry powder, chopped shallot, 1 tablespoon of tamari or soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix lightly until just combined, being careful not to overwork the meat.

Step 3: Shape the Meatballs
Coat your hands with a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking, and roll the meat mixture into tablespoon-sized balls. You should get about 15-20 meatballs. Place them on the prepared baking sheet and bake for about 10 minutes, until they are crispy and cooked through.

Step 4: Prepare the Curry Sauce
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter along with the red curry paste and fresh ginger. Cook for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and slightly caramelized. Then, add the sliced bell peppers and coconut milk, alongside 3 tablespoons of tamari or soy sauce and the fish sauce.

Step 5: Simmer the Meatballs
Gently add the baked meatballs into the sauce, letting them simmer together for 5 minutes so they can soak up all that delicious flavor.

Step 6: Make the Garlic Butter
In a separate pan, melt the remaining 5 tablespoons of butter over medium heat, adding the chopped garlic and a pinch of chili flakes. Cook until the butter begins to brown and the garlic becomes crisp, then drizzle this heavenly mixture over the meatballs.

To serve, dish the Thai Chicken Meatballs in Coconut Curry over a bed of fluffy rice, drizzle the garlic butter sauce generously, and finish with a sprinkle of fresh Thai basil or cilantro. Don’t forget to squeeze some lime over the top—it’s the zest that ties everything together!

Now that you have these delightful Thai Chicken Meatballs in Coconut Curry ready, gather your loved ones, prepare to bask in the aroma, and enjoy a meal that’s sure to become an instant favorite!

Perfecting Thai Chicken Meatballs in Coconut Curry Cooking Process

Start by preheating the oven and preparing the meatballs. While they bake, create the luscious coconut curry sauce. Once the meatballs are crisp, combine them with the sauce to soak up all those delightful flavors before serving.

Add Your Touch to Thai Chicken Meatballs in Coconut Curry

Feel free to swap in ground turkey for a leaner option, or add diced vegetables like zucchini for extra nutrition. You can also adjust the spice level by adding more or less curry powder or chili flakes.

Storing & Reheating Thai Chicken Meatballs in Coconut Curry

Store leftover meatballs and sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of coconut milk if needed to restore creaminess.

Cooking these Thai Chicken Meatballs in Coconut Curry brings back fond memories of lively dinners with friends. Their delighted faces as they enjoyed my creation made all the prep worthwhile. Nothing beats homemade comfort food!

FAQs About Thai Chicken Meatballs in Coconut Curry

What is Thai Chicken Meatballs in Coconut Curry?

Thai Chicken Meatballs in Coconut Curry is a delightful dish that combines juicy chicken or pork meatballs with a rich, fragrant coconut curry sauce. The meatballs are seasoned with aromatic spices, including curry powder and ginger, then baked to perfection. They are cooked in a creamy sauce made from coconut milk and Thai red curry paste, enhanced with colorful bell peppers. This dish is perfect for serving over rice and garnished with fresh herbs, creating a vibrant and satisfying meal.

How can I make Thai Chicken Meatballs in Coconut Curry healthier?

To make Thai Chicken Meatballs in Coconut Curry healthier, consider swapping out the ground chicken or pork for ground turkey, which is leaner. You can also reduce the amount of butter or use a healthier fat, such as avocado oil, for sautéing. Adding extra vegetables, like chopped zucchini or spinach, can boost the nutritional profile and add texture. Adjusting the level of curry and chili flakes will allow you to control the spice while maintaining flavor.

Can I make Thai Chicken Meatballs in Coconut Curry in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare Thai Chicken Meatballs in Coconut Curry in advance. The meatballs can be mixed, rolled, and stored in the refrigerator for up to a day before baking. You can also make the coconut curry sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, combine the baked meatballs with the sauce for a quick, flavorful meal.

What should I serve with Thai Chicken Meatballs in Coconut Curry?

Thai Chicken Meatballs in Coconut Curry pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Steamed jasmine rice or coconut rice complement the rich flavors perfectly. For a lighter option, consider serving it over zucchini noodles or quinoa. Don’t forget some lime wedges on the side, as they add a bright zing! A fresh salad with cucumber and herbs can also provide a refreshing contrast to the rich and creamy meatballs.

Conclusion for Thai Chicken Meatballs in Coconut Curry

Thai Chicken Meatballs in Coconut Curry is a fantastic dish that balances vibrant flavors and textures beautifully. With an easy recipe that incorporates accessible ingredients, you can whip up a meal that feels both special and comforting. The satisfying meatballs soaked in the creamy coconut curry sauce are sure to impress your family and friends. Remember, whether it’s for a weeknight dinner or a gathering, this dish is a hit that brings smiles to the table!

Thai Chicken Meatballs in Coconut Curry with Garlic Butter Sauce

Thai Chicken Meatballs in Coconut Curry is a joyous blend of flavors, featuring juicy meatballs and a creamy sauce.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 6 meatballs

Course: Dinner Recipes

Cuisine: Thai

Calories: 507

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

  

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Meatball Ingredients

• 1.5 pounds ground chicken or ground pork
• 1-2 tablespoons spicy curry powder
• 3 tablespoons tamari or soy sauce
• 1 whole shallot, chopped
• kosher salt and black pepper
• chili flakes
• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil

Sauce Ingredients

• 6 tablespoons salted butter
• 0.25 cups Thai red curry paste
• 1 tablespoon fresh grated ginger
• 2 whole orange or red bell peppers, sliced
• 2 cups canned full-fat coconut milk
• 1 tablespoon fish sauce or soy sauce
• 0.5 cups chopped Thai basil or cilantro
• 3-4 cloves garlic, chopped
• limes, for serving

Equipment

• oven
• Baking sheet
• skillet
• mixing bowl

Method

 

Preparation Steps

1. Preheat the oven to 450 degrees F. Line a baking sheet with parchment.
2. In a bowl, combine the ground chicken, curry powder, shallot, 1 tablespoon tamari/soy, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
3. Coat your hands with oil and roll the mixture into tablespoon-size meatballs, placing them on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 10 minutes until crisp.
4. In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon butter with the curry paste and ginger over medium heat. Cook until fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Add the bell peppers, coconut milk, 3 tablespoons tamari/soy sauce, and fish sauce. Gently slide the meatballs into the sauce and simmer for 5 minutes until cooked through.
6. Melt the remaining 5 tablespoons butter in a separate pan with the chopped garlic and a pinch of chili flakes. Cook until the butter is browned and the garlic crisps.
7. Serve the meatballs and sauce over rice, drizzled with the garlic butter and topped with fresh basil or cilantro.

Nutrition

Serving: 1meatballCalories: 507kcal

Notes

For an extra kick, feel free to adjust the spice levels according to your taste. Consider substituting ground turkey for a leaner option or adding vegetables for more nutrition.

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