Name: Honey Lemon Chicken Meatballs
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Asian Fusion
Ingredients: 1 lb ground chicken (or ground turkey); 1 large egg; ½ cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular); 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons finely chopped onion (or grated); 1 tablespoon lemon zest (about 1 large lemon); 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 tablespoon honey; ½ teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon black pepper; 2 tablespoons olive oil (for cooking); ¼ cup honey (for glaze); 2 tablespoons lemon juice (for glaze); 1 tablespoon soy sauce (for glaze); 1 teaspoon cornstarch + 1 teaspoon water (for thickening); 1 tablespoon butter (for glaze); ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time:

Prep Time: 10 min | Cook Time: 25 min | Total Time: 35 min

how to make Honey Lemon Chicken Meatballs

Ingredients:

For the Meatballs:

1 lb ground chicken (or ground turkey)
1 large egg
½ cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons finely chopped onion (or grated)
1 tablespoon lemon zest (about 1 large lemon)
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon honey
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons olive oil (for cooking)

For the Honey Lemon Glaze:

¼ cup honey
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 teaspoon cornstarch + 1 teaspoon water (for thickening)
1 tablespoon butter
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
Make the Meatballs: In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, egg, breadcrumbs, garlic, onion, lemon zest, lemon juice, honey, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined — don’t overmix or the meatballs can become dense.
Shape: Roll into 1–1½-inch meatballs (about 20–24 total). Place evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake: Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until golden and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Make the Glaze: While meatballs bake, whisk together honey, lemon juice, and soy sauce in a small saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat. Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook for 1–2 minutes until thickened slightly. Whisk in butter and red pepper flakes (if using).
Coat the Meatballs: Transfer baked meatballs to a large bowl. Pour the warm glaze over and toss gently to coat evenly.
Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley, extra lemon zest, or sesame seeds. Serve warm with rice, quinoa, or roasted vegetables. Serve over steamed jasmine rice, couscous, or zoodles. Add roasted asparagus or green beans for a fresh spring-like meal. Great as an appetizer with toothpicks for parties!

Pro Tips

Don’t overmix the meatball mixture to keep them tender.
Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness at 165°F (74°C).

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Honey Lemon Chicken Meatballs are juicy, packed with flavor, and feature a sweet and tangy glaze that everyone will enjoy. They are great for dinner or as a finger food for gatherings.

how to serve Honey Lemon Chicken Meatballs

Serve these meatballs warm on a platter, paired with rice or over salads. They also work well as party appetizers with toothpicks.

how to store Honey Lemon Chicken Meatballs

Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

tips to make Honey Lemon Chicken Meatballs

If you want spicier meatballs, add more red pepper flakes.
Try using ground turkey for a leaner option.

variation

You can substitute ground chicken with lean beef or pork if preferred. Also, feel free to switch out the glaze for a favorite sauce.

Nutrition Information:

Storage and Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the microwave or oven until warm. They can also be enjoyed cold or at room temperature.

Customization Ideas

You can add herbs like parsley or cilantro to the meatball mixture for extra flavor. A squeeze of lime can also give a different taste.

Disclaimer:

This recipe is intended for informational purposes only. The nutritional information may vary based on ingredients used.

why make this recipe

Honey Lemon Chicken Meatballs are easy to prepare, delicious, and perfect for any occasion. They provide a tasty alternative to traditional meatballs with a burst of flavor.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, but make sure to fully thaw it before mixing with the other ingredients.
How long do the meatballs last in the fridge?
They can last up to 3 days in an airtight container.
Can I freeze these meatballs?
Absolutely! Freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months.
Can I bake these meatballs instead of frying?
Yes, baking is a healthier option, and they turn out just as tasty!
How spicy is the red pepper flakes?
They add a mild heat. You can adjust the amount to suit your taste.