When you think of comfort food with a sweet and savory twist, honey glazed chicken meatballs easily come to mind. These little bites are juicy, flavorful, and perfectly coated in a sticky honey glaze that balances sweetness with just the right amount of savoriness. Unlike heavy beef or pork meatballs, chicken meatballs are lighter, leaner, and allow the glaze to shine through without being overpowering. The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility—it can serve as a crowd-pleasing appetizer, a satisfying main course with rice or noodles, or even a lunchbox favorite. Best of all, they’re quick and easy to make, using pantry staples and everyday ingredients. If you’re looking for a go-to dish that’s fuss-free yet guaranteed to impress, these honey glazed chicken meatballs deserve a spot on your table.

Full Recipe

Ingredients

• 500 g (1 lb) ground chicken

• 1 small onion, finely grated

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 egg, lightly beaten

• 1/2 cup (50 g) breadcrumbs

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

• 1/2 teaspoon paprika

• 1 tablespoon soy sauce

For the Honey Glaze:

• 1/4 cup (60 ml) honey

• 2 tablespoons soy sauce

• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)

• 1 teaspoon sesame oil

• 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional, for heat)

• 1 teaspoon cornstarch + 2 tablespoons water (for slurry, if needed to thicken)

Cooking Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F) and line a baking tray with parchment paper.

2. In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, grated onion, minced garlic, egg, breadcrumbs, parsley, salt, pepper, paprika, and soy sauce. Mix until just combined—avoid overmixing, as this can make the meatballs dense.

3. Using damp hands or a small scoop, form the mixture into bite-sized meatballs and place them evenly on the prepared tray.

4. Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until cooked through and lightly golden. You can also pan-fry them in a skillet with a touch of oil for 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally until browned and cooked inside.

5. While the meatballs are cooking, prepare the glaze. In a small saucepan, whisk together honey, soy sauce, vinegar, sesame oil, and chili flakes. Simmer over medium heat for 3–4 minutes. If you prefer a thicker glaze, stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook for another minute until glossy.

6. Once the meatballs are done, toss them in the glaze until evenly coated.

7. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions if desired. Serve hot with rice, noodles, or as finger food.

Nutrients (per serving, based on 4 servings)

• Calories: ~310 kcal

• Protein: 24 g

• Carbohydrates: 18 g

• Sugars: 12 g

• Fat: 15 g

• Saturated Fat: 4 g

• Sodium: 620 mg

• Fiber: 1 g

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are so many reasons to fall in love with honey glazed chicken meatballs. They’re quick, wholesome, and packed with flavor, making them suitable for busy weeknights or entertaining. The balance of sweet honey and savory soy sauce creates an addictive glaze that clings to each meatball beautifully. Plus, chicken is naturally leaner than red meats, so you get that satisfying comfort without feeling overly heavy afterward. This recipe is also family-friendly—kids love the sweetness, while adults appreciate the subtle umami depth.

The Origins and Inspiration Behind the Dish

Sweet and savory combinations are found in many culinary traditions, from Asian glazed meats to Mediterranean honey-marinated dishes. These chicken meatballs borrow inspiration from Asian-style glazes, where honey, soy sauce, and sesame oil often form the flavor base. By combining this approach with the universal appeal of meatballs, you get a dish that feels familiar yet exciting. It’s a fusion comfort food that bridges cultures, making it perfect for a modern kitchen where versatility is key.

Ingredient Spotlight

Chicken is the star here, offering a lean, mild base that absorbs flavors beautifully. Honey provides natural sweetness and a sticky texture, while soy sauce adds depth and saltiness. The addition of garlic and onion ensures the meatballs are fragrant and flavorful, while breadcrumbs and egg keep them tender and moist. Sesame oil rounds everything out with its nutty aroma, giving the glaze an irresistible finish.

Storage and Reheating Tips

These meatballs store beautifully, making them ideal for meal prep. Allow them to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, warm them in a skillet with a splash of water or extra glaze until heated through. If frozen, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. Avoid microwaving for too long, as this can make the glaze lose its glossy finish.

Common Variations to Try

Want to customize your meatballs? There are plenty of options:

• Spicy Kick: Add sriracha or extra chili flakes to the glaze.

• Ginger Twist: Stir fresh grated ginger into the glaze for brightness.

• Teriyaki Style: Replace honey with brown sugar and add mirin for a Japanese-inspired version.

• Mini Meatball Skewers: Thread glazed meatballs onto skewers for a fun party appetizer.

• Vegetable Boost: Mix finely grated zucchini or carrot into the meatball mixture for extra nutrition.

Pairing Recommendations

These honey glazed chicken meatballs shine alongside steamed jasmine rice, garlic noodles, or even a simple stir-fried vegetable medley. For a lighter option, serve them over a crisp green salad with a sesame dressing. If you’re entertaining, pair them with appetizers like spring rolls or dumplings for an Asian-inspired spread. For drinks, a chilled white wine such as Riesling or a crisp lager complements the sweet and savory glaze beautifully.

Health Benefits

Chicken is a lean protein that supports muscle health and keeps you feeling full. Honey, while sweet, offers natural antioxidants and is a better alternative to refined sugar-based glazes. Garlic and onions contribute immune-boosting compounds, while sesame oil provides healthy fats in moderation. When baked rather than fried, these meatballs are a healthier choice without compromising on flavor.

Conclusion

Easy and tasty honey glazed chicken meatballs are the kind of dish that makes weeknight cooking enjoyable again. They’re simple to prepare, yet they deliver big on flavor, making them a reliable favorite for family meals, parties, or even meal prep. With their glossy glaze, juicy bite, and irresistible balance of sweet and savory, these meatballs are proof that you don’t need complicated recipes to create something memorable. Once you try them, they’ll quickly become a regular on your menu rotation.