Teriyaki Pineapple Chicken Meatballs: 22 Flavorful Delights

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Teriyaki Pineapple Chicken Meatballs have quickly become my favorite weeknight dinner. This recipe is not only easy to make but also combines the savory and sweet flavors of chicken and pineapple in a delightful way. With fresh ingredients and a quick preparation time, these meatballs are a step above store-bought versions, even those from Costco. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a dish that impresses at your next gathering, these meatballs are sure to please.

Why You’ll Love This Teriyaki Pineapple Chicken Meatballs

There are countless reasons to adore these teriyaki pineapple chicken meatballs. Firstly, they deliver a perfect balance of flavors—sweet, savory, and a hint of tropical flair. Secondly, they are incredibly versatile. You can serve them over rice, in a wrap, or as a party appetizer. Thirdly, this recipe is gluten-free, making it suitable for a wider audience. Additionally, they are packed with protein, making them a healthy choice for dinner. You can also meal prep these meatballs, which makes busy weekdays a breeze. Lastly, the combination of chicken and pineapple makes them a hit with kids and adults alike. Enjoy them as baked pineapple chicken meatballs or grilled teriyaki chicken meatballs; the possibilities are endless!

Ingredients for Teriyaki Pineapple Chicken Meatballs

Gather these items:

1 pound Ground Chicken (or turkey)
1 cup Crushed Pineapple (well-drained)
1 cup Panko Breadcrumbs (or regular breadcrumbs)
1 medium Red Bell Pepper (diced; optional)
1 tablespoon Fresh Ginger (grated)
2 cloves Garlic (minced)
1/2 cup Reduced Sodium Soy Sauce (or Tamari for gluten-free)
1/4 cup Brown Sugar (can substitute with honey or monk fruit)
2 tablespoons Corn Starch (to thicken)
1/2 cup Water (or chicken broth)
2 tablespoons Scallions (Green Onions) (finely chopped)

How to Make Teriyaki Pineapple Chicken Meatballs Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: Combine ground chicken, crushed pineapple, diced red bell pepper, panko breadcrumbs, chopped scallion, minced garlic, grated ginger, salt, and pepper in a large mixing bowl.
Step 3: Shape the mixture into approximately 22 meatballs and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
Step 4: Bake the meatballs for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
Step 5: In a skillet over medium heat, whisk together reserved pineapple juice, water, soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, and grated ginger.
Step 6: Thicken the sauce by mixing corn starch with a bit of water to form a slurry and adding it to the skillet.
Step 7: Stir until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.
Step 8: Toss the baked meatballs gently in the teriyaki sauce to coat them evenly before serving.

Pro Tips for the Best Teriyaki Pineapple Chicken Meatballs

Keep these in mind:

Make sure to drain the crushed pineapple well to avoid a soggy mixture.
For added flavor, let the meatball mixture sit for 15-30 minutes before shaping.
Using a cookie scoop can help achieve uniform meatballs.
These meatballs are also great for meal prep; make a double batch and freeze for later!

Best Ways to Serve Teriyaki Pineapple Chicken Meatballs

There are numerous ways to enjoy these delicious meatballs. They can be served over fluffy rice, perfect for soaking up the teriyaki sauce. Alternatively, you can serve them in lettuce wraps for a lighter option. These meatballs also shine at parties; serve them with toothpicks for easy snacking. If you’re feeling adventurous, try them in a pineapple bowl for a tropical presentation.

How to Store and Reheat Teriyaki Pineapple Chicken Meatballs

Store any leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or warm them in a skillet over medium heat. For meal prep fans, these meatballs are great for batch cooking, as they freeze well. Just ensure they are well-coated in sauce before freezing.

Frequently Asked Questions About Teriyaki Pineapple Chicken Meatballs

What’s the secret to perfect Teriyaki Pineapple Chicken Meatballs?

The secret lies in balancing flavors—ensure the pineapple is well-drained and the seasoning is just right. This will lead to a moist yet firm meatball. Using chicken meatballs with teriyaki sauce enhances the flavor profile, making each bite delicious.

Can I make Teriyaki Pineapple Chicken Meatballs ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs in advance and store them in the fridge. Just bake them right before serving. This is perfect for busy weeknights or parties.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Teriyaki Pineapple Chicken Meatballs?

Avoid overmixing the meatball mixture, which can make them tough. Also, make sure to check the doneness with a meat thermometer; internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) for safety.

Variations of Teriyaki Pineapple Chicken Meatballs You Can Try

Feel free to get creative with these meatballs! You can add chopped water chestnuts for crunch or swap in ground turkey for a lighter option. For a spicy kick, incorporate some chopped jalapeños into the mixture. Lastly, consider making a pineapple glazed chicken meatballs version by adding more pineapple juice to the sauce for a sweeter flavor.