Chicken Meatballs in Coconut Curry Sauce are a delightful and satisfying dish that brings together the richness of coconut milk and aromatic spices with juicy, flavorful chicken meatballs. This recipe is perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or a cozy night in. The creamy curry sauce complements the meatballs beautifully, making it a standout meal that everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of coconut milk and Thai red curry paste creates a rich and aromatic sauce that elevates the taste of simple chicken meatballs.
- Quick and Easy: This recipe is straightforward, making it suitable for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs. It can be prepared in under an hour!
- Versatile Dish: Serve these meatballs over rice, noodles, or alongside steamed vegetables for a complete meal. You can even use leftovers in wraps or salads.
- Healthy Ingredients: With lean ground chicken and packed with herbs and spices, this dish is not only tasty but also nutritious.
- Impressive Presentation: The vibrant colors of the coconut curry sauce and garnishes make this dish visually appealing for any occasion.
Tools and Preparation
To make Chicken Meatballs in Coconut Curry Sauce, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools to help you create this delicious dish efficiently.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Skillet or frying pan
- Measuring spoons
- Knife and cutting board
- Wooden spoon or spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowls: These are crucial for combining ingredients smoothly without any mess.
- Skillet or frying pan: A good quality skillet ensures even cooking of meatballs and helps achieve the perfect texture.
- Knife and cutting board: Sharp knives make chopping ingredients quick and safe, while a sturdy cutting board provides stability during food prep.

Ingredients
For the Chicken Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
- 2 green onions, finely chopped
- 2 tbsp chopped cilantro
- 1 tsp fish sauce
- 1 tsp soy sauce
- 1/2 tsp red chili flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil (for frying)
For the Coconut Curry Sauce:
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp Thai red curry paste
- 1 tsp turmeric powder
How to Make Chicken Meatballs in Coconut Curry Sauce
Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, minced garlic, grated ginger, chopped green onions, chopped cilantro, fish sauce, soy sauce, red chili flakes (if using), breadcrumbs, egg, salt, and pepper.
- Mix until all ingredients are well combined. Be careful not to overmix as this can make the meatballs tough.
Step 2: Form the Meatballs
- Use your hands to shape the mixture into small meatballs about 1 inch in diameter. Place them on a plate or baking sheet as you work.
Step 3: Cook the Meatballs
- Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Once hot, add the meatballs carefully without overcrowding the pan. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
Step 4: Make the Coconut Curry Sauce
- In the same skillet used for cooking meatballs, add another tablespoon of vegetable oil.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in Thai red curry paste and turmeric powder; cook for an additional minute until well combined.
- Pour in coconut milk (if using) or broth to create a silky sauce. Bring to a gentle simmer.
Step 5: Combine Meatballs with Sauce
- Gently add cooked meatballs back into the skillet with coconut curry sauce.
- Simmer for about 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
Now you’re ready to serve your Chicken Meatballs in Coconut Curry Sauce! Enjoy this flavorful dish with your favorite sides!
How to Serve Chicken Meatballs in Coconut Curry Sauce
Serving Chicken Meatballs in Coconut Curry Sauce can elevate your dining experience. The creamy texture and rich flavors pair beautifully with various accompaniments.
With Rice
- Steamed Jasmine Rice: This fragrant rice absorbs the curry sauce, enhancing every bite.
- Coconut Rice: Infuse rice with coconut milk for a tropical twist that complements the curry.
- Brown Rice: A healthier option that adds nuttiness and pairs well with the dish.
With Flatbreads
- Naan Bread: Soft and fluffy, naan is perfect for scooping up meatballs and sauce.
- Pita Bread: Warm pita makes for a great vessel to enjoy every drop of the delicious curry.
With Fresh Salads
- Cucumber Salad: Refreshing and crunchy, this salad adds a nice contrast to the creamy sauce.
- Thai Slaw: A zesty slaw with lime dressing enhances the flavors and adds crunch.
How to Perfect Chicken Meatballs in Coconut Curry Sauce
Creating perfect chicken meatballs requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your dish shines.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic and ginger elevate flavors, creating a more vibrant dish.
- Don’t overmix: Gently mix meatball ingredients to keep them tender; overworking them can lead to dense meatballs.
- Adjust spice level: Taste the mixture before cooking, adjusting red chili flakes to achieve your desired heat level.
- Cook in batches: Frying meatballs in smaller groups ensures even cooking and a nice golden crust.
Best Side Dishes for Chicken Meatballs in Coconut Curry Sauce
Complementing your Chicken Meatballs in Coconut Curry Sauce with side dishes can enhance the meal’s overall appeal. Here are some great options:
- Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli or bok choy add color and nutrition; simply steam until tender.
- Quinoa Salad: Light and nutritious, quinoa tossed with herbs offers a delightful texture contrast.
- Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness balances the savory curry flavor beautifully.
- Grilled Asparagus: Lightly charred asparagus provides a fresh touch and crunchiness.
- Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb alternative that soaks up the coconut curry sauce perfectly.
- Mango Chutney: A sweet, tangy side that can brighten up the entire dish with its fruity notes.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping the seasoning: Not adding enough salt and pepper can make your chicken meatballs bland. Always taste your mixture before cooking.
- Overmixing the meatball mixture: Overworking the ingredients can lead to tough meatballs. Mix just until combined for a tender texture.
- Ignoring the frying temperature: Cooking at too high or too low of a temperature can result in unevenly cooked meatballs. Aim for medium heat to achieve a perfect golden brown.
- Using stale breadcrumbs: Old breadcrumbs can affect the texture of your meatballs. Always use fresh or homemade breadcrumbs for the best results.
- Not letting the sauce simmer: Rushing the coconut curry sauce will prevent it from developing flavors. Allow it to simmer gently for at least 10 minutes.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store chicken meatballs in an airtight container.
- They can last up to 3–4 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Chicken Meatballs in Coconut Curry Sauce
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag.
- They can be stored for up to 3 months.
Reheating Chicken Meatballs in Coconut Curry Sauce
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.
- Stovetop: Warm in a pan over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated thoroughly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Chicken Meatballs in Coconut Curry Sauce?
Chicken meatballs in coconut curry sauce are flavorful and juicy meatballs made from ground chicken, cooked in a rich and creamy curry sauce made with coconut milk.
Can I use turkey instead of chicken?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for chicken if you prefer. The flavor will still be delicious!
How do I make the sauce spicier?
To increase the spice level, add more red chili flakes or include sliced fresh chilies when preparing the sauce.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can make both the meatballs and sauce ahead of time and store them separately until you are ready to serve.
What sides pair well with this dish?
Serve with jasmine rice, quinoa, or steamed vegetables to complement the flavors of chicken meatballs in coconut curry sauce.
Final Thoughts
This recipe for chicken meatballs in coconut curry sauce is not only delicious but also versatile. It’s easy to customize by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the spice level to suit your taste. We encourage you to give it a try and enjoy this warming dish any night of the week!

Chicken Meatballs in Coconut Curry Sauce
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Chicken Meatballs in Coconut Curry Sauce is a vibrant and satisfying dish that seamlessly blends juicy ground chicken with the creamy richness of coconut milk and aromatic spices. This recipe is quick to prepare, making it perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in. The delightful combination of flavors ensures that everyone at the table will enjoy this enticing meal. Serve it over rice, noodles, or steamed vegetables for a complete dining experience.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
- 2 green onions, finely chopped
- 2 tbsp chopped cilantro
- 1 tsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp Thai red curry paste
- 1 can coconut milk (13.5 oz)
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, 2 minced garlic cloves, ginger, green onions, cilantro, soy sauce, breadcrumbs, salt, pepper, and egg.
- Shape the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and set aside.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat; cook meatballs until golden brown and cooked through (5-7 minutes).
- In the same skillet, heat remaining oil and sauté 2 minced garlic cloves for 30 seconds. Add red curry paste and turmeric; cook for an additional minute.
- Pour in coconut milk and bring to a gentle simmer. Add meatballs back into the skillet and simmer for 5 minutes to meld flavors.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 meatballs (150g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 540mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 90mg