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Thai Chicken Meatballs in Coconut Curry Recipe

4.4 from 26 reviews

This Thai Chicken Meatballs in Coconut Curry recipe combines juicy, flavorful chicken meatballs with a rich and aromatic coconut curry sauce. Infused with fresh herbs, red curry paste, and vibrant vegetables, this dish offers a perfect balance of spicy, sweet, and tangy flavors. Ideal for a comforting family dinner, it pairs beautifully with steamed jasmine rice or warm naan bread.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Meatballs

  • 1 lb (450g) ground chicken
  • ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 egg
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp fish sauce
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • 1 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro
  • 2 green onions, finely chopped
  • 1 tbsp vegetable oil (for frying)

For the Coconut Curry Sauce

  • 1 tbsp vegetable oil
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
  • 1 tbsp red curry paste
  • 1 tsp turmeric powder
  • 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 tbsp fish sauce
  • 1 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 tsp lime juice
  • ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • ½ cup bell pepper, thinly sliced
  • ½ cup carrots, julienned
  • 1 tbsp fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)
  • 1 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Mix the Meatball Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, panko breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, grated ginger, soy sauce, fish sauce, salt, black pepper, chopped cilantro, and finely chopped green onions. Stir gently to distribute all ingredients evenly without overmixing to keep the meatballs tender.
  2. Shape the Meatballs: Using your hands or a tablespoon, form the mixture into small meatballs about 1 inch in diameter. Arrange them on a plate or tray, ready for cooking.
  3. Sear the Meatballs: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs in a single layer and sear them for 3-4 minutes on each side until they develop a golden-brown crust. They do not need to be fully cooked at this point. Remove the meatballs from the skillet and set aside.
  4. Sauté the Aromatics: In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of vegetable oil. Sauté the chopped onion for 2-3 minutes until it becomes translucent. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.
  5. Add Spices and Curry Paste: Stir in the red curry paste and turmeric powder, coating the sautéed aromatics evenly. Cook for about 1 minute to help release the spices’ flavors.
  6. Prepare the Coconut Curry Sauce: Pour in the coconut milk and chicken broth, stirring gently to combine. Add the fish sauce, brown sugar, and lime juice to balance the salty, sweet, and tangy flavors of the sauce.
  7. Cook Vegetables in the Sauce: Add the halved cherry tomatoes, thinly sliced bell pepper, and julienned carrots to the curry sauce. Let it simmer for 5 minutes to allow the vegetables to soften slightly.
  8. Simmer Meatballs in Curry: Carefully return the seared meatballs to the skillet, making sure they are submerged in the sauce. Cover and simmer on low heat for 10-12 minutes, or until meatballs are cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/75°C). Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking and prevent sticking.
  9. Adjust Seasoning and Garnish: Taste the curry and adjust seasoning with additional fish sauce, lime juice, or sugar if desired. Sprinkle chopped fresh basil and cilantro over the top for a fresh, herbal finish.
  10. Serve: Serve the Thai chicken meatballs hot with steamed jasmine rice or warm naan bread to complete the meal.

Notes

  • Do not overmix the meatball mixture to avoid dense meatballs.
  • Ensure meatballs reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
  • Adjust the red curry paste quantity to control the spice level according to your preference.
  • Vegetables can be substituted or added to suit taste, such as zucchini or snap peas.
  • Leftover curry can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.

Keywords: Thai chicken meatballs, coconut curry, ground chicken recipe, quick Thai dinner, homemade meatballs, coconut milk curry, healthy Asian recipes