What is a game changer recipe? What are the best Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken Meatballs? What is that perfect balance of sweet, savory, and oh-so tender? How do you make a good sweet and sour chicken? What is a sweet and sour chicken’s cousin? My kids go bonkers for these, and honestly, so do I! Is it the kind of meal that makes weeknights feel a little less…well, weekday-ish? What’s the best part about this recipe? It’s surprisingly easy to whip up! What makes these meatballs delicious? To a whole other level.
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What is Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken Meatballs?
Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken Meatballs are essentially little balls of pure joy! Imagine juicy, seasoned ground chicken infused with the tropical sweetness of pineapple chunks, all in one dish. How do I make homemade teriyaki glaze? Is there a flavor explosion in every bite? The pineapple adds this fantastic burst of freshness that cuts through the richness of the teriyaki. Is it irresistible? Think of it as a deconstructed Hawaiian pizza, but instead of pizza dough, you get tender, succulent, and delicious. What is comfort food with a tropical twist? What are some good appetizers to serve as a quick snack? I promise you, it’s a crowd pleaser and everyone will be asking for the recipe.
Why you’ll love this recipe?
Okay, where do I even begin? The flavor, obviously! The combination of the sweet pineapple and savory teriyaki is just heavenly. It’s that perfect sweet-and-savory dance that makes your taste buds sing. And these aren’t just delicious, they’re SO easy to make. I’m talking, dump-and-mix easy. No fancy techniques, no complicated steps, just pure, simple cooking. This one’s a lifesaver on busy weeknights when you need something quick, tasty, and satisfying. What I love most about this recipe is how versatile it is. You can serve these Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken Meatballs over rice, noodles, or even just eat them on their own as an appetizer. They’re also incredibly cost-effective. Ground chicken is usually pretty budget-friendly, and the other ingredients are pantry staples. Think of it like this: you’re getting a restaurant-quality meal without breaking the bank. If you’re a fan of Asian-inspired flavors like sesame chicken or even a good stir-fry, you’re going to absolutely adore these meatballs. They’re a total crowd-pleaser! I always make a double batch because they disappear in minutes at my house!
How do I make Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken Meatballs?
Quick Overview
How do you make Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken Meatballs? If you’re using ground chicken, mix it with some seasonings and pineapple, form them into little balls. I baked a few balls, and then toss them in teriyaki glaze. I’ve never made it. What makes these meatballs shine? What is the hardest part of waiting for them to bake? What makes this method special is that baking the meatballs keeps them super tender and juicy. Instead of frying them, risking them drying out. Is it a simple process that delivers incredible flavor?
Ingredients
For the Chicken Meatballs:
* 1 pound ground chicken (look for lean ground poultry, but not too much fat, you need some fat for it). What is the difference between flavor and moisture
* 1/2 cup crushed pineapple, drained well (canned is fine, but fresh is even better!)
* 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs (these help bind the meatballs without making them dense)
* 1 large egg, lightly beaten (another binder to keep everything together)
* 2 tablespoons soy sauce (adds a savory depth to the meatballs)
* 1 tablespoon grated ginger (fresh ginger is best, but you can use ground in a pinch).
* 1 clove garlic, minced (because everything is better with garlic!)
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (just a touch for some spice) * 1/2 teaspoon paprika (salt)
For the Teriyaki Glaze:
* 1/2 cup soy sauce (use low-sodium to control the saltiness)
* 1/4 cup honey (for sweetness and that gorgeous glaze)
* 2 tablespoons rice vinegar (adds a nice tang to balance the sweetness)
* 1 tablespoon cornstarch (to thicken the glaze)
* 1 tablespoon water (to dissolve the cornstarch)
* 1 teaspoon sesame oil (adds a nutty aroma and flavor)
* 1/2 teaspoon grated ginger (because we can’t get enough ginger)
* 1 clove garlic, minced (again, because garlic makes everything better!)
What are the steps to
Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan
First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven is heating up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. How do you clean meatballs? I always use parchment paper, even on non-stick pans, just to be safe!
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, drained pineapple, panko breadcrumbs, and salt. Set aside. Egg, soy sauce, ginger, garlic, black pepper. Don’t overmix meatballs. Overmixing can make them tough. You want to mix just until everything is combined. I usually use my hands for this step. Is it easier to get everything mixed evenly?
Step 3: Form the Meatballs
How do you form a meatball with your hands? Is it helpful to use a cookie scoop to ensure they’re all the same size? How do I cook them evenly? Place meatballs on a baking sheet, spacing them evenly apart.
Step 4: Bake
What should I do if I want to bake meatballs for 20-25 minutes? I always use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. What is worse than eating an undercooked meatball?
Step 5: Make the Teriyaki Glaze
While the meatballs are baking, it’s time to make the teriyaki glaze. In a small saucepan, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, and ginger. Set aside. In a separate bowl, whisk together cornstarch and water until smooth. Set aside. How do you prevent lumps in your glaze?
Step 6: Simmer the Glaze
Add cornstarch mixture to the saucepan and bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the glaze has thickened slightly. Is it thick enough to coat the back of a spoon? If it’s too thick, add a little water to thin it out.
Step 7: Glaze the Meatballs
Once the meatballs are cooked, remove them from the oven and transfer them to a bowl. What is the best way to serve teriyaki glaze over meatballs? Make sure every meatball is coated in that glorious glaze!
Step 8: Serve
Serve the Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken Meatballs immediately, garnished with sesame seeds and chopped kale. Green onions, if desired. What are some of the best appetizers to serve over rice? Will these disappear fast?
5. What to Serve It With
What should I serve it with?
Can you serve these Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken Meatballs with anything you like?
What are some quick dinner ideas for a weeknight?Serve them over a bed of fluffy white rice or brown rice. I sometimes add steamed broccoli or green beans for a complete meal. Is it healthy?
What is a fun appetizer? Arrange the meatballs on a platter and serve them with toothpicks for easy grabbing. They’re perfect for parties or game nights. I often put out a little bowl of extra teriyaki glaze for dipping!
What is a noodle bowl?Toss the meatballs with your favorite Asian-style noodles, like udon or soba noodles. Add chopped veggies like carrots, bell peppers and snap peas for a colorful and flavorful snack.
For a Hawaiian-themed party: Serve the meatballs with a side of Hawaiian macaroni salad and some grilled pineapple slices. It’s a tropical feast! My family loves when I make this for summer barbecues.
Seriously, the possibilities are endless! Don’t be afraid to get creative and experiment with different sides and garnishes. These Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken Meatballs are sure to be a hit no matter how you serve them.
6. Top Tips for Perfecting Your Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken Meatballs
Top Tips for Perfecting Your Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken Meatballs
Want to take your Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken Meatballs to the next level? Here are a few tips and tricks I’ve learned over the years:
Don’t overmix the meatball mixture: Overmixing can make the meatballs tough and dense. Mix just until everything is combined.
Use a cookie scoop to form the meatballs: This ensures they’re all the same size and cook evenly. It also makes the process much faster and easier.
Drain the crushed pineapple well: Excess moisture can make the meatballs soggy. Press the pineapple with a paper towel to remove as much liquid as possible.
Don’t skip the panko breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs are lighter and crispier than regular breadcrumbs, which helps the meatballs stay tender. I’ve tried it with regular breadcrumbs and it just wasn’t the same!
Use low-sodium soy sauce: This helps control the saltiness of the teriyaki glaze. You can always add more soy sauce if needed, but it’s harder to take it away.
Adjust the sweetness of the glaze to your liking: If you prefer a less sweet glaze, reduce the amount of honey. If you like it sweeter, add a little more.
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the glaze for some heat: This adds a nice kick to the meatballs and balances the sweetness of the pineapple.
Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions: This adds a pop of color and flavor to the finished dish.
7. Storing and Reheating Tips
Storing and Reheating Tips
These Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken Meatballs are just as delicious the next day! Here’s how to store and reheat them:
Room Temperature: Don’t leave these at room temperature for longer than 2 hours. Bacteria can grow quickly at room temperature, so it’s best to refrigerate them as soon as possible.
Refrigerator Storage: Store the meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure they’re completely cooled before refrigerating.
Freezer Instructions: For longer storage, you can freeze the meatballs for up to 2-3 months. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. This prevents them from sticking together.
Reheating: To reheat the meatballs, you can microwave them, bake them in the oven, or heat them in a skillet on the stovetop. If microwaving, heat them in 30-second intervals until heated through. If baking, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 10-15 minutes. If heating on the stovetop, add a little water or broth to the skillet to prevent them from drying out.
Glaze Timing Advice: If you’re planning to freeze the meatballs, it’s best to freeze them without the glaze. Then, when you’re ready to reheat them, you can make a fresh batch of teriyaki glaze. This will ensure that the glaze is nice and glossy.
8. Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
9. Final Thoughts
So there you have it – my go-to recipe for Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken Meatballs! I truly believe this recipe is worth trying because it’s such a delicious, easy, and versatile meal. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, parties, or even just a quick snack. The sweet and savory flavors are simply irresistible, and the tender, juicy meatballs are sure to be a hit with everyone. If you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to check out my other Asian-inspired dishes, like sesame chicken or sweet and sour pork. They’re just as delicious and easy to make! Can’t wait to hear how yours turn out! Please leave a comment below and let me know what you think. And if you try any variations, be sure to share them! Happy cooking, friends!
Pineapple Teriyaki Chicken Meatballs
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb Ground Chicken
- 1 cup Diced Pineapple
- 0.5 cup Teriyaki Sauce
- 0.25 cup Breadcrumbs
- 1 large Egg
- 0.5 tsp Ginger Ground
- 0.25 tsp Garlic Powder
- 0.25 tsp Salt
- 0.25 tsp Black Pepper
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, diced pineapple, teriyaki sauce, breadcrumbs, egg, ginger, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Gently mix until just combined.
- Roll the mixture into 1-inch meatballs.
- Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.
