introduction
Firecracker Chicken Meatballs are spicy, sweet, and easy to make. You mix ground chicken with simple seasonings, bake small meatballs, then toss them in a sweet-hot sauce. This recipe works for a quick weeknight meal or a game-day snack. If you like simple chicken dishes, check these 20 chicken breast recipes you’ll love for more ideas.
why make this recipe
- It cooks fast and uses few ingredients.
- Meatballs are easy to make ahead and reheat.
- The sauce is bold but simple: sweet, spicy, and sticky.
- Kids and adults both enjoy the mix of flavors.
how to make Firecracker Chicken Meatballs
Make the meatballs and sauce in steps. First mix the meatball ingredients, form small meatballs, and bake until cooked. While they bake, warm the sauce until the sugar melts. Add baked meatballs to the sauce and simmer a few minutes so they soak up the flavor.
Ingredients :
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup buffalo sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
Directions :
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, green onions, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Form the mixture into meatballs, about 1-inch in diameter, and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden and cooked through.
- Meanwhile, in a saucepan, combine buffalo sauce, brown sugar, soy sauce, and Worcestershire sauce. Heat over medium until the sugar has dissolved and the sauce is well mixed.
- Once the meatballs are done, transfer them to the sauce and simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes, allowing them to soak in the flavor.
- Serve warm, garnished with additional green onions if desired.
how to serve Firecracker Chicken Meatballs
Serve them hot from the pan. They work well as an appetizer on a platter with toothpicks or as a main with rice, noodles, or a salad. For simple sides and baked chicken ideas to pair them with, see these baked chicken ideas.
how to store Firecracker Chicken Meatballs
- Cool meatballs to room temperature before storing.
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- To freeze, place meatballs in a single layer on a tray until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
- Reheat in a skillet over low heat or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
tips to make Firecracker Chicken Meatballs
- Use 1-inch meatballs so they cook evenly.
- Do not overmix the meat; mix just until combined.
- If the mixture feels too wet, add a bit more breadcrumbs.
- Taste and adjust salt in the sauce if your buffalo sauce is salty or mild.
- For extra texture, use panko breadcrumbs.
variation (if any)
- Make them milder: reduce buffalo sauce or add more brown sugar.
- Make them sweeter: add honey or maple syrup to the sauce.
- Add heat: stir in a little hot sauce or red pepper flakes.
- Make pork or turkey meatballs: swap ground chicken for ground pork or turkey.
FAQs
Q: Can I cook these on the stove instead of baking?
A: Yes. Brown the meatballs in a skillet with a little oil, then finish in the sauce until cooked through.
Q: Are these meatballs good for meal prep?
A: Yes. They store well in the fridge and reheat easily for lunches or dinners.
Q: Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
A: Yes. Make the sauce and refrigerate. Reheat and add meatballs when ready to serve.
Q: How do I know the meatballs are done?
A: They should reach 165°F (74°C) inside and be no longer pink.
Q: Can I make larger meatballs?
A: You can, but increase bake time until the center is fully cooked.
Conclusion
For the full original recipe and another view of this dish, see the Firecracker Chicken Meatballs Recipe | Little Spice Jar.
Firecracker Chicken Meatballs
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, green onions, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Form the mixture into meatballs, about 1-inch in diameter, and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden and cooked through.
- Meanwhile, in a saucepan, combine buffalo sauce, brown sugar, soy sauce, and Worcestershire sauce. Heat over medium until the sugar has dissolved and the sauce is well mixed.
- Once the meatballs are done, transfer them to the sauce and simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes, allowing them to soak in the flavor.
- Serve warm, garnished with additional green onions if desired.