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Crispy Firecracker Chicken Meatballs

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These Crispy Firecracker Chicken Meatballs feature a double-crisping technique and a sticky, spicy-sweet glaze that delivers a perfect balance of heat and sweetness. Quick and easy to make, they are perfect for game days, potlucks, or a flavorful family dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb (450g) ground chicken (preferably lean)
  • 1/2 cup (50g) panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup (25g) finely chopped green onions
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 large egg, room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/3 cup (80ml) sweet chili sauce
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon sriracha (or more to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil (optional)
  • Sesame seeds, toasted (for garnish)
  • Chopped fresh cilantro or green onions (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place a wire rack on top if available.
  2. In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, panko breadcrumbs, chopped green onions, minced garlic, soy sauce, egg, grated ginger, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently until just combined.
  3. Using slightly wet hands, form the mixture into 1 1/2-inch (3.8 cm) meatballs, about 20 total. Place them evenly spaced on the wire rack or baking sheet.
  4. Bake for 12-15 minutes until meatballs are cooked through but not yet golden.
  5. While baking, whisk together sweet chili sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sriracha, and toasted sesame oil in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir until warmed and slightly thickened, about 3-4 minutes. Set aside.
  6. Remove meatballs from oven and brush or spoon the spicy glaze generously over each meatball, turning to coat evenly.
  7. Return meatballs to the oven and bake for another 8-10 minutes to caramelize the glaze and crisp the exterior. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
  8. Once out of the oven, sprinkle toasted sesame seeds and chopped cilantro or green onions over the meatballs.
  9. Serve immediately for best crispy-spicy flavor.

Notes

If glaze is too runny, simmer longer to thicken. Avoid overmixing meat to keep meatballs tender. Use a wire rack for even crisping or flip meatballs halfway if not using a rack. For gluten-free, substitute panko with gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour. Air fryer can be used at 375°F for 10-12 minutes, tossing with glaze halfway.

Nutrition

Keywords: chicken meatballs, spicy glaze, firecracker chicken, crispy meatballs, game day recipe, easy dinner, sweet chili sauce, spicy chicken

Find it online: https://hungermind.com/crispy-firecracker-chicken-meatballs-recipe-easy-spicy-glaze-delight/