Description

Easy Teriyaki Chicken Meatballs with Broccoli features tender ground chicken meatballs glazed with a savory natural teriyaki sauce paired with crisp steamed broccoli. Ready in under 30 minutes, this balanced, flavor-packed recipe is perfect for busy weeknights and offers a wholesome, family-friendly meal with a nutty sesame oil finish and fresh green onion garnish.

Ingredients

Scale

Meatballs

1 lb ground chicken
2 slices smoked turkey bacon, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced (natural)
1 tsp fresh ginger, grated (natural)
1 tsp natural brown sugar
1/2 tsp natural gelling agent

Teriyaki Sauce

1/4 cup soy sauce (natural)
2 tbsp apple cider vinegar (natural)
2 tbsp honey (natural)
2 cloves garlic, minced (natural)
1 tsp fresh ginger, grated (natural)
1 tbsp natural brown sugar

Vegetables & Garnishes

3 cups fresh broccoli florets
1 tbsp sesame oil (natural)
2 green onions, thinly sliced
Toasted sesame seeds, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Prepare the Meatball Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken with finely chopped smoked turkey bacon, minced garlic, grated fresh ginger, natural brown sugar, and natural gelling agent. Mix gently to keep the meatballs tender and juicy.
Shape the Meatballs: Form the mixture into 1-inch evenly sized meatballs using your hands or a small scoop. Place them on a plate or tray to keep their shape before cooking.
Cook the Broccoli: Steam the broccoli florets for 3 to 4 minutes until bright green and just tender. Set aside and keep warm.
Brown the Meatballs: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a splash of sesame oil. Place the meatballs in a single layer and cook, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the meatballs and keep warm.
Make the Teriyaki Sauce: In the same skillet, whisk together soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, honey, minced garlic, grated ginger, and natural brown sugar. Simmer gently until thickened and glossy.
Combine Meatballs and Sauce: Return the cooked meatballs to the skillet and toss to coat in the teriyaki glaze. Add the steamed broccoli and stir gently to combine, letting the flavors meld for a minute.

Notes

Uniform meatball size ensures even cooking and prevents dryness.
Handle the mixture gently to maintain tender meatballs.
Fresh garlic and ginger create the brightest flavor.
Deglaze the pan with a splash of grape juice after browning meatballs for extra sauce depth.
Steam broccoli until just tender-crisp to preserve nutrients and color.
Leftovers can be refrigerated up to 3 days; keep sauce separate if possible.
Freeze cooked meatballs on a tray before storing in a freezer bag for up to 2 months.
Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave with added moisture to keep meatballs juicy.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 18 minutes
Category: Appetizers
Method: Pan-frying
Cuisine: Asian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 320
Sugar: 8g
Sodium: 600mg
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 18g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 30g
Cholesterol: 75mg

Keywords: teriyaki chicken meatballs, chicken meatballs, broccoli, easy weeknight dinner, gluten free, healthy recipe, kid friendly, low carb option