Baked Chicken Meatballs with Sweet Oyster Sauce

There’s something undeniably comforting about meatballs, especially when they’re baked to perfection and drizzled with a sweet and savory sauce. These Baked Chicken Meatballs with Sweet Oyster Sauce are not only easy to make but also pack a punch of flavor that will have your taste buds dancing. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy gathering, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends alike. Say goodbye to the mundane and hello to a delightful dish that brings a twist to your typical meatball recipe!

What Makes This Recipe Special

This recipe for Baked Chicken Meatballs with Sweet Oyster Sauce stands out because of its unique combination of flavors and textures. Ground chicken creates a light and tender meatball that pairs beautifully with the rich, umami-packed sweet oyster sauce. The addition of fresh ginger and garlic adds a zesty punch, while the toasted sesame oil brings a fragrant nuttiness to the dish. Plus, the option to serve these meatballs in crisp lettuce wraps adds a fun and healthy twist that you won’t want to miss.

Ingredient Checklist

To recreate this delicious dish, gather the following ingredients:

• For the Chicken Meatballs:
• 1 cup panko bread crumbs
• 3 tablespoons milk
• 1 pound Goldn Plump Ground Chicken
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon minced shallot
• 1 tablespoon minced fresh ginger
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten
• 2 teaspoons soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• For the Sweet Oyster Sauce:
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons minced fresh ginger
• 1 cup oyster sauce
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1.5 teaspoons cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon water
• For Lettuce Wraps and Optional Garnishes:
• 1 head Boston lettuce, leaves separated
• Toasted sesame seeds
• Chopped red bell pepper
• Chopped fresh cilantro
• Chopped green onion
• Lime wedges

Equipment & Tools

• Mixing bowls – For combining the meatball ingredients and sauce.
• Baking sheet – To bake the meatballs evenly.
• Parchment paper – To line the baking sheet for easy cleanup.
• Measuring cups and spoons – For precise ingredient measurements.
• Whisk – To mix the sauce ingredients smoothly.
• Spatula or tongs – For flipping the meatballs during baking.

Baked Chicken Meatballs with Sweet Oyster Sauce: How It’s Done

Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the panko bread crumbs and milk. Let this sit for about 5 minutes until the bread crumbs absorb the milk and soften. Then, add the ground chicken, minced garlic, minced shallot, minced ginger, beaten egg, soy sauce, kosher salt, and black pepper. Mix everything together until just combined—be careful not to overmix.

Step 2: Form the Meatballs

Using your hands, scoop out about 2 tablespoons of the meat mixture and roll it into a ball. Place the formed meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Repeat until all the mixture is used up, spacing the meatballs evenly apart.

Step 3: Bake the Meatballs

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the meatballs for about 20-25 minutes or until they are cooked through and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The meatballs should be golden brown on the outside.

Step 4: Make the Sweet Oyster Sauce

While the meatballs are baking, heat the vegetable oil and sesame oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and ginger, sautéing until fragrant (about 1-2 minutes). Stir in the oyster sauce, soy sauce, and honey. In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and water, then add this mixture to the saucepan. Let the sauce simmer for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally until it thickens.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Once the meatballs are done baking, remove them from the oven and drizzle the sweet oyster sauce generously over the meatballs. Toss gently to coat. Serve the meatballs with Boston lettuce leaves for wrapping, and garnish with toasted sesame seeds, chopped red bell pepper, fresh cilantro, green onions, and lime wedges for an extra burst of flavor.

Healthier Substitutions

If you’re looking to lighten up the recipe without sacrificing flavor, consider these healthier substitutions:

• Use ground turkey instead of ground chicken for a leaner option.
• Swap honey for maple syrup for a different sweetener option.
• Replace panko bread crumbs with whole wheat breadcrumbs to increase fiber content.
• Utilize low-sodium soy sauce to cut down on sodium intake.
• Incorporate more vegetables into your wraps, such as shredded carrots or sliced cucumbers.

Learn from These Mistakes

When making Baked Chicken Meatballs with Sweet Oyster Sauce, here are a few common pitfalls to avoid:

• Don’t overmix the meatball mixture; this can lead to tough meatballs.
• Ensure your oven is preheated before baking the meatballs to achieve even cooking.
• Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness, as undercooked chicken can pose health risks.
• Don’t forget to coat the meatballs in sauce after baking for maximum flavor.

Prep Ahead & Store

These Baked Chicken Meatballs with Sweet Oyster Sauce can be made ahead of time, making them perfect for meal prep! Here’s how to do it:

• Prepare the meatballs and freeze them uncooked. When ready to cook, bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
• Cooked meatballs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• The sweet oyster sauce can also be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to a week.
• For longer storage, freeze the cooked meatballs with sauce in a freezer-safe container.

Common Questions

Can I use a different type of meat for this recipe?

Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey, pork, or even beef if you prefer a different flavor profile.

How do I know when the meatballs are fully cooked?

The best way to determine if meatballs are cooked through is to use a meat thermometer. They should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Can I make these meatballs spicy?

Yes! You can add some red pepper flakes or sriracha to the meatball mixture or the sauce for a spicy kick.

What can I serve with these meatballs besides lettuce wraps?

These meatballs pair wonderfully with rice or noodles, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

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Make It Tonight

Now that you have the ultimate guide to making Baked Chicken Meatballs with Sweet Oyster Sauce, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and get cooking! This dish is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a fun way to bring family and friends together around the dinner table. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy a delightful meal that is sure to become a new favorite in your home. Bon appétit!