Peanut Butter Chicken Meatballs Recipe

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground chicken
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 1/2 cup panko bread crumbs
• 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
• 1/4 cup sweet Thai chili sauce
• 1 tablespoon minced fresh ginger

Directions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 450F (230C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, beaten egg, panko bread crumbs, creamy peanut butter, sweet Thai chili sauce, and fresh ginger. Stir until everything is evenly mixed.

Step 3: Using your hands or a spoon, form the mixture into 1 1/2-inch meatballs and place them on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they are spaced out evenly.

Step 4: Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes, or until they are browned and fully cooked through. You can check for doneness by inserting an instant-read thermometer into the center of a meatball; it should register at least 165F (74C).

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 397
• Total Fat: 22g (29% Daily Value)
• Saturated Fat: 6g (28% Daily Value)
• Cholesterol: 168mg (56% Daily Value)
• Sodium: 507mg (22% Daily Value)
• Total Carbohydrate: 17g (6% Daily Value)
• Dietary Fiber: 2g (7% Daily Value)
• Total Sugars: 4g
• Protein: 34g (68% Daily Value)
• Vitamin C: 3mg (3% Daily Value)
• Calcium: 53mg (4% Daily Value)
• Iron: 2mg (13% Daily Value)
• Potassium: 977mg (21% Daily Value)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs. Nutritional information is approximate and may vary based on the ingredients used.

The Story Behind Peanut Butter Chicken Meatballs

Peanut Butter Chicken Meatballs are a modern twist on traditional Asian-inspired cuisine, blending the rich, creamy taste of peanut butter with tender chicken. While meatballs have existed for centuries in many cultures, the combination of ground chicken and peanut butter traces its influence to Southeast Asian flavors, particularly Thai cooking. The use of sweet chili sauce and fresh ginger reflects a growing fusion trend in Western kitchens, where classic comfort foods are paired with bold, international spices. This dish likely emerged in the early 2000s as home cooks and chefs sought to create fast, flavorful meals that could bridge the gap between appetizers and main courses.

Regional Variations and Characteristics

In Thailand, a similar dish might be found as Gai Satay Meatballs, often served with a peanut dipping sauce, but local versions tend to incorporate coconut milk and lemongrass for a more aromatic flavor. In the United States, chefs adapted the recipe for convenience and broader appeal, using pantry staples like creamy peanut butter and panko breadcrumbs. Regional adaptations may include spicier sauces in Southern U.S. kitchens or the addition of soy sauce and lime in West Coast interpretations, giving each version a slightly different taste profile while maintaining the core peanut-chicken combination.

How It Differs From Similar Dishes

Unlike traditional Italian meatballs, which are heavy on herbs and Parmesan cheese, Peanut Butter Chicken Meatballs focus on Asian-inspired flavors and a lighter protein base. The creamy peanut butter distinguishes them from other chicken meatballs, adding both richness and a subtly sweet undertone. Whereas typical chicken meatballs may be served with tomato sauce or gravy, this recipe is characterized by its fusion of savory and sweet, complemented by the warmth of ginger and the tang of sweet chili sauce.

Where These Meatballs Are Commonly Served

These meatballs are versatile and appear in multiple dining contexts. They are often served as appetizers at casual parties, buffets, or family dinners. In restaurants, they might appear as part of a modern Asian-fusion menu or as finger food at cocktail events. Their compact size and bold flavor make them suitable for both plated dinners and informal gatherings, allowing diners to enjoy a concentrated punch of flavor in every bite.

Interesting Facts About Peanut Butter Chicken Meatballs

• The combination of peanut butter and chicken provides a high-protein, nutrient-rich dish that is both satisfying and quick to prepare.
• This recipe reflects a broader trend in global fusion cuisine, where traditional Western dishes are enhanced with Asian ingredients.
• The use of panko breadcrumbs instead of regular bread crumbs adds extra crunch and keeps the meatballs light rather than dense.
• Sweet Thai chili sauce, a hallmark of this dish, originates from Thailand and combines the elements of sweet, sour, and mildly spicy flavors, creating a complex taste profile.
• Despite being an oven-baked dish, the meatballs retain a juicy interior thanks to the fat content in peanut butter and the binding properties of eggs.

Overall, Peanut Butter Chicken Meatballs are a delightful fusion of East and West, providing a flavorful, nutritious, and visually appealing dish suitable for a wide range of occasions.

FAQ about Peanut Butter Chicken Meatballs Recipe

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