Thai Spiced Chicken Meatballs in Coconut Curry

This fragrant dish features juicy chicken meatballs infused with Thai-inspired spices, nestled in a rich and creamy coconut curry sauce. Perfectly paired with rice and fresh herbs, it's a comforting meal packed with bold flavors!

Ingredients

For the Meatballs:

1 lb ground chicken

1/2 cup shredded zucchini (about 1 small zucchini)

2 green onions, chopped

2 shallots, chopped

2 tsp grated ginger

1 clove garlic, grated

1/4 tsp cayenne pepper

Black pepper, to taste

2 tsp tamari or soy sauce

For the Coconut Curry:

3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil, divided

1 red bell pepper, sliced

2 tbsp salted butter

1-3 tbsp Thai red curry paste (adjust to spice preference)

1 can (14 oz) coconut milk

3 tbsp tamari or soy sauce

1 tbsp grated ginger

1 clove garlic, grated

1 shallot, chopped

1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

For Serving:

Fresh basil

Lime wedges

Cooked rice

Additional green onions (optional)

Instructions

1️⃣ Make the Chicken Meatballs:

In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, shredded zucchini, green onions, one chopped shallot, grated ginger, garlic, cayenne, black pepper, and tamari.

Mix until well combined.

Form the mixture into tablespoon-sized meatballs and set them aside.

2️⃣ Sear the Meatballs:

Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Add the meatballs and sear for 4-5 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides.

Transfer the seared meatballs to a plate.

3️⃣ Prepare the Coconut Curry:

In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tbsp olive oil.

Sauté the shallot, garlic, and ginger for 1 minute until fragrant.

Add the red bell pepper, butter, and Thai red curry paste. Cook for 2 minutes, stirring to combine.

4️⃣ Simmer the Meatballs in the Curry:

Pour in the coconut milk and tamari sauce, scraping up any browned bits from the skillet.

Bring the sauce to a simmer, then add the seared meatballs.

Let the meatballs cook in the sauce for 5 minutes or until fully cooked through.

5️⃣ Add Fresh Herbs and Serve:

Stir in the chopped cilantro and adjust seasoning as needed.

Serve the meatballs and curry over a bed of steamed rice.

Garnish with fresh basil, green onions, and lime wedges for an extra burst of flavor.

Enjoy Your Flavorful Thai Dish!

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Total Time: 45 minutes

Servings: 4

This dish balances the spice of curry with the creaminess of coconut milk, creating a perfect harmony of flavors that will transport you to Thailand with every bite!