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Chili Crisp Honey Chicken Meatballs

Tender baked chicken meatballs lacquered in a glossy honey and chili crisp glaze, then finished with fresh lime zest, sesame, and scallions.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course dinner
Cuisine Asian-inspired
Servings 4
Calories 370 kcal

Ingredients
  

Chicken Meatballs

  • 1 pound ground chicken
  • 1/3 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 large egg yolk
  • 2 scallions finely sliced
  • 2 garlic cloves finely grated
  • 1 teaspoon finely grated fresh ginger
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
  • 1 teaspoon neutral oil for brushing

Chili Crisp Honey Glaze

  • 3 tablespoons honey
  • 2 tablespoons chili crisp
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
  • 1 teaspoon rice vinegar

For Serving

  • 1 teaspoon finely grated lime zest
  • 1 teaspoon sesame seeds
  • 2 scallions thinly sliced
  • Cooked rice for serving (optional)

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the oven to 425°F. Line a sheet pan with parchment paper.
  • Combine the ground chicken, panko, egg yolk, scallions, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, and sesame oil in a large bowl. Mix gently just until evenly combined.
  • Form the mixture into approximately 20 meatballs and arrange them on the prepared sheet pan. Lightly brush or dab the tops with neutral oil.
  • Bake for 14 to 17 minutes, until lightly browned and the centers reach 165°F.
  • While the meatballs bake, combine the honey, chili crisp, soy sauce, lime juice, and rice vinegar in a large skillet.
  • Bring the glaze to a gentle simmer over medium heat and cook for about 2 minutes, stirring frequently, until slightly reduced and glossy.
  • Add the cooked meatballs to the skillet and gently toss over low heat for 1 to 2 minutes, until thoroughly coated and the glaze clings to the meatballs.
  • Remove from the heat and finish with fresh lime zest, sesame seeds, and sliced scallions. Serve immediately, with cooked rice if desired.

Notes

Ground chicken can become firm if overworked, so mix only until the ingredients are evenly incorporated. Chili crisp brands vary considerably in heat and saltiness; taste the glaze before adding extra seasoning. If the glaze reduces too quickly, loosen it with 1 tablespoon water. For a milder version, reduce the chili crisp and replace the difference with additional honey. Nutrition does not include optional rice.