By Dr. Leah Alexander | Published on September 30, 2023 | Last Updated on September 30, 2023
Trader Joe’s is known for its unique and delicious products, and this chicken meatball is no exception. Made with ingredients exclusively from Trader Joe’s, these meatballs are packed with flavor and can be easily made for any special occasion.
It’s a great meal option for busy weeknights or to impress your guests at a dinner party. These meatballs are versatile and can be served as an appetizer, over pasta, or in a sandwich.
In this article, we’ll take you through the step-by-step process of making Trader Joe’s chicken meatballs and provide some variations and tips to make it your own. So grab your ingredients and let’s get started!
What are Trader Joe’s Chicken Meatballs?
Trader Joe’s Chicken Meatballs are a tasty and easy-to-make dish using ingredients exclusively from Trader Joe’s.
The mixture of ground chicken or turkey, sweet chili sauce, panko breadcrumbs, eggs, and spices creates a flavorful and moist meatball that can be enjoyed in various ways.
These meatballs are also a healthier alternative to traditional beef meatballs, making them a great option for those looking to eat lighter but still want a delicious and satisfying meal.
With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can make a restaurant-quality chicken meatball dish at home.
Why You’ll Love Trader Joe’s Chicken Meatballs?
There are many reasons to love these Trader Joe’s chicken meatballs. First, they are made with lean ground chicken or turkey, making them a healthier option compared to beef meatballs.
They are also packed with different tastes. Secondly, they are incredibly versatile and can be consumed in multiple ways.
These meatballs are also easy to make and can be prepared in just under 30 minutes. Plus, the ingredients used are easily available at Trader Joe’s, making it convenient for you to recreate this dish at home anytime.
With its flavorful and unique taste, these chicken meatballs are sure to become a favorite among your family and friends. So go ahead and try making them today!
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The Ingredients
- Kosher Salt: This type of salt has a larger grain size and is less processed than regular table salt, making it perfect for seasoning meats.
- Sweet Chili Sauce: A flavorful and slightly spicy sauce made with chili peppers, garlic, sugar, and vinegar. It adds a sweet and tanginess to the meatballs.
- Panko Breadcrumbs: These Japanese breadcrumbs are lighter and crispier than traditional breadcrumbs, giving the meatballs a nice texture.
- Eggs: Used as a binder to hold the meatballs together and add moisture.
- Ground Ginger: Adds a slightly spicy and warm flavor to the meatballs.
- Chili Powder: A blend of spices including chili peppers, cumin, and garlic powder that adds heat and depth of flavor to the meatballs.
- Lean Ground Chicken or Turkey: Can be used interchangeably in this recipe. Both are leaner options compared to ground beef and add a lighter taste to the meatballs.
- Parmesan Cheese: Adds a salty and nutty flavor to the meatballs.
- Garlic Powder: Adds a savory and slightly sweet garlic flavor to the meatballs.
Step by Step Instructions
Step 1
Prepare the Meatball Mixture
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chicken or turkey, sweet chili sauce, panko breadcrumbs, eggs, ground ginger, chili powder, parmesan cheese, and garlic powder.
- Gently mix all the ingredients together until well combined.
Step 2
Roll the Meatballs
- Take about 2 tablespoons of the meatball mixture and roll it into a ball.
- Repeat with the remaining mixture, placing each meatball on a plate or baking sheet.
Step 3
Cook the Meatballs
- Preheat a large skillet over medium heat and lightly coat with oil.
- Place the meatballs in the skillet, leaving some space between each meatball.
- Cook for about 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are evenly browned and cooked through.
Step 4
Serve
- Once cooked, remove the meatballs from the skillet and place them on a serving dish.
Notes
- These meatballs can also be baked in the oven at 375°F for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- To add spiciness to the meatballs, mix in some crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper.
- For extra flavor, replace the sweet chili sauce with your favorite BBQ sauce or teriyaki sauce.
Nutrition Information
How to store Trader Joe’s Chicken Meatballs?
These chicken meatballs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months.
To reheat, simply place them in the microwave or on a skillet until heated through. They make for a quick and easy meal option anytime.
Variations
- For a vegetarian option, replace the ground chicken or turkey with plant-based meat substitutes.
- Add in some chopped vegetables like onions, bell peppers, or carrots for added flavor and texture.
- Elevate the dish by serving the meatballs over a bed of pasta and marinara sauce.
- For a low-carb option, serve the meatballs over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
Trader Joe’s Chicken Meatballs Recipe
Equipment
- Skillet
- mixing bowl
Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon of Kosher Salt harvested from pristine salt flats
- 4 tablespoons of artisanal Sweet Chili Sauce a delightful balance of sweet and heat
- 1/2 cup 60g of golden Panko Breadcrumbs, a crispy coating for culinary perfection
- 2 large Eggs the golden orbs from contented free-range hens
- 2 pounds of Lean Ground Chicken or Turkey a savory canvas for the dish
- 2 teaspoons of Chili Powder a fiery blend for a culinary adventure
- 1/2 cup of luscious Sweet Chili Sauce an additional layer of flavor
- 2 teaspoons of aromatic Ground Ginger a fragrant touch from distant spice lands
- 2 ounces of Shredded Parmesan Cheese a nutty and aged delight
- 2 teaspoons of Garlic Powder a fragrant whisper for savory depth
Instructions
- Begin by preparing the meatball mixture. To do this, combine ground chicken, sweet chili sauce, panko breadcrumbs, eggs, ground ginger, chili powder, parmesan cheese, and garlic powder in a large mixing bowl. Gently mix all the ingredients together until they are well incorporated.
- Next, roll the mixture into small balls using approximately 2 tablespoons of the mixture for each meatball. Place them on a plate or baking sheet.
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and lightly coat it with oil. Once heated, add the meatballs to the skillet, making sure they have enough space between them. Cook for 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally until they are evenly browned and cooked through.
- Once the meatballs are fully cooked, remove them from the skillet and transfer them to a serving dish.
Notes
- These meatballs can also be baked in the oven at 375°F for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- To add spiciness to the meatballs, mix in some crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper.
- For extra flavor, replace the sweet chili sauce with your favorite BBQ sauce or teriyaki sauce.
FAQs
What other Trader Joe’s products can I use with these meatballs?
You can serve these chicken meatballs with any side dish of your choice from Trader Joe’s. Some options include their frozen vegetable medleys, quinoa blends, or rice dishes.
Can I use ground beef instead of chicken or turkey?
Yes, you can use ground beef in this. However, the cooking time may vary slightly and the meatballs will be higher in fat compared to using lean ground chicken or turkey.
Can pregnant women consume these meatballs?
It is generally safe for pregnant women to consume these meatballs. However, it’s always best to consult with your doctor before trying any new foods while pregnant.
Wrapping Up
Thank you for trying out this guide on Trader Joe’s chicken meatballs. We hope you enjoyed making and eating them as much as we did.
Please share this article with your friends and family and let us know in the comments how you liked this.
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Dr. Leah Alexander, M.D., is a board-certified Pediatrician in New Jersey and has been working at Elizabeth Pediatric Group of New Jersey since 2000.
She also has a passion for culinary arts that extends beyond the medical realm. After completing culinary school at the French Culinary Institute, she started Global Palate, LLC, a catering firm, in 2007. She ran her own six-year-old catering company and served small group parties as an owner and executive chef.
