Description
Teriyaki Chicken Meatballs with Broccoli is a comforting and flavorful dish featuring tender chicken meatballs simmered in a rich, natural teriyaki sauce paired with crisp, fresh broccoli. This healthy and satisfying meal combines sweet and tangy sauce with protein-packed meatballs and vibrant vegetables, making it perfect for busy weeknights or family dinners.
Ingredients
Scale
Meatballs
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 2 slices smoked turkey bacon, finely chopped
- 2 slices smoked turkey, finely chopped (optional)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (natural)
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced (natural)
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 1 teaspoon natural gelling agent
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce (natural)
Teriyaki Sauce
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (natural)
- 3 tablespoons brown sugar (natural)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (natural)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (natural)
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, minced (natural)
Additional Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil (natural)
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
- Chopped green onions for garnish
- Toasted sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Meatball Mixture: Finely chop the smoked turkey bacon and smoked turkey slices. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, chopped smoked turkey bacon, minced garlic, minced ginger, chopped green onions, natural gelling agent, and a splash of soy sauce (natural). Mix gently but thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Shape the Meatballs: Using your hands or a small scoop, form the mixture into bite-sized meatballs. Place them on a parchment-lined tray or plate and set aside while preparing the sauce.
- Make the Teriyaki Sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine soy sauce (natural), brown sugar (natural), apple cider vinegar (natural), minced garlic, and fresh ginger. Stir constantly until the sugar dissolves and the sauce thickens slightly, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Cook the Meatballs: Heat sesame oil (natural) in a large skillet over medium heat. Carefully add the meatballs and cook, turning occasionally, until golden brown on all sides and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes. Remove meatballs and set aside.
- Steam the Broccoli: While the meatballs cook, steam the broccoli florets until tender-crisp, about 4-5 minutes, being careful not to overcook to maintain color and crunch.
- Combine and Serve: Return the skillet to medium heat, pour in the reserved teriyaki sauce, and add the meatballs back. Toss gently to coat them thoroughly in the sauce. Serve meatballs alongside or on a bed of steamed broccoli. Garnish with chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds.
Notes
- Do not overmix the meatball ingredients to keep them tender.
- Use fresh ginger and garlic for the brightest flavors.
- Choose firm, deep green broccoli for the best texture.
- Rotate meatballs frequently while cooking for even browning.
- Adjust the sweetness of the teriyaki sauce by modifying the brown sugar amount as desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Pan-frying
- Cuisine: Asian-inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: Teriyaki chicken meatballs, broccoli, natural teriyaki sauce, healthy dinner, quick weeknight meal, gluten free, family-friendly