Name: Butter Chicken Meatballs
Prep time: 12 min
Cook time: 23 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1.5 pounds Ground Chicken; 1 large Egg; 0.5 cup Panko Crumbs; 1 teaspoon Curry Powder; 0.5 teaspoon Garam Masala; 0.5 teaspoon Salt; 0.25 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper; 2 tablespoons Chopped Fresh Cilantro; 2 tablespoons Butter; 0.5 cup Onion; 1 packet Indian Butter Chicken Seasoning; 1 15-ounce can Tomato Sauce; 0.5 cup Heavy Cream; 1 serving Fresh Cilantro for Garnish

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Whenever I think of comfort food, the first thing that comes to mind is Butter Chicken Meatballs. This dish takes me back to cozy family dinners, where the aroma of spices filled the air, inviting everyone to the table. The tender meatballs, infused with creamy sauce, deliver a delightful burst of flavor. I remember the first time I made this for friends; they couldn’t believe how easy it was to create such a rich, satisfying meal. Paired with fluffy rice or warm naan, these meatballs are not just a dish; they’re a culinary experience that brings joy to every bite.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
35 mins

Prep Time:
12 mins

Cook Time:
23 mins

Difficulty:
Easy

Calories:
350 kcal

Protein:
22 g

Diet:
Keto, Gluten-Free

Fat:
24 g

Tools Used:
Mixing Bowl, Oven, Cutting Board, Skillet, Frying Pan, Chef’s Knife, Saucepan, Baking Sheet

What Sets This Butter Chicken Meatballs Apart

Perfectly Balanced Flavors

One of the reasons I adore Butter Chicken Meatballs so much is the harmonious blend of spices. The curry powder and garam masala add warmth and depth, while the cayenne pepper gives just the right kick. This balance makes every bite an exciting journey for your taste buds.

Easy to Make

You don’t need to be a culinary expert to whip up these meatballs. The steps are straightforward, and the ingredients are simple. Even if you’re new to cooking, you’ll find this recipe approachable and rewarding. It’s perfect for a weeknight meal or when you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen.

Kid-Friendly Delight

Kids love meatballs, and this version is no exception. The creamy sauce makes them irresistible, and the ground chicken is a healthier option compared to other meats. I’ve seen even the pickiest eaters go back for seconds. It’s a great way to introduce new flavors to young palates.

Versatile Serving Options

Another reason I keep coming back to Butter Chicken Meatballs is how versatile it is. You can serve it over rice, with naan, or even toss it into a salad for a fresh twist. The possibilities are endless, making it easy to adapt to different meals and occasions.

Great for Meal Prep

This dish is perfect for meal prepping. You can make a large batch and store leftovers in the fridge or freezer. Just reheat when you’re ready to enjoy a comforting meal. It makes weeknight dinners a breeze and ensures you always have something delicious on hand.

What You Need for Butter Chicken Meatballs

The ingredients for Butter Chicken Meatballs come together beautifully, creating a dish that’s not only tasty but also satisfying. The key players are ground chicken, which keeps the meatballs juicy, and heavy cream, which gives that signature richness to the sauce. Together, these ingredients form a flavorful base.

1 1/2 pounds ground chicken: The star of the dish, providing tenderness and flavor.
1 large egg: Binds the meatballs together and adds moisture.
1/2 cup panko crumbs: Gives the meatballs a light, airy texture and helps them hold their shape.
1 teaspoon curry powder: Adds warmth and complexity to the flavor profile.
1/2 teaspoon garam masala: A fragrant spice blend that enhances the dish’s exotic flavor.
1/2 teaspoon salt: Essential for enhancing all the flavors in the meatballs.
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper: Provides a touch of heat, balancing the creaminess of the sauce.
2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro: Adds freshness and a pop of color.
2 tablespoons butter: Used for sautéing and adds richness to the sauce.
1/2 cup finely diced onion: Offers sweetness and depth to the flavor.
1 (.9-ounce) packet Indian butter chicken seasoning: A shortcut for an authentic taste.
1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce: Creates the base of the creamy sauce.
1/2 cup heavy cream: Adds richness and creaminess, making the dish indulgent.
fresh cilantro for garnish: For a burst of color and flavor.

Putting Together Butter Chicken Meatballs

Making Butter Chicken Meatballs is a delightful process that fills your kitchen with wonderful aromas. Follow these simple steps to create a dish that will leave everyone asking for more.

Preheat your oven to 425 degrees and prepare a rimmed baking sheet by spraying it with cooking spray or lining it with parchment paper. This prevents the meatballs from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
In a large bowl, gently mix together all the meatball ingredients: the ground chicken, egg, panko crumbs, curry powder, garam masala, salt, cayenne pepper, and cilantro. Combine until everything is evenly incorporated, but be careful not to overmix — you want the meatballs to remain tender.
Shape the mixture into meatballs a little over 1-inch in diameter. It helps to wet your hands slightly to prevent sticking. Place the formed meatballs on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced apart.
Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes, until golden brown and cooked through. You’ll know they’re done when they reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees.
While the meatballs are baking, melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and cook for about 3 minutes, until it becomes translucent and fragrant. This step builds a solid flavor base.
Next, add the butter chicken seasoning, tomato sauce, and heavy cream to the skillet. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer. The sauce should become creamy and fragrant.
After simmering for 5 minutes, gently add the baked meatballs to the sauce. Carefully turn them in the sauce to coat them evenly, allowing them to heat through for another few minutes. This step marries the flavors beautifully.
Once heated, sprinkle with additional fresh cilantro for garnish, adding a pop of color and flavor. Serve warm, and enjoy your delicious creation!

Things Worth Knowing

Ensure Even Cooking: Make sure your meatballs are uniform in size so they cook evenly. This is crucial for both texture and flavor.
Test Flavor: Before baking, taste a small amount of the meatball mixture to adjust seasoning if needed. It’s an easy way to ensure they’re seasoned perfectly.
Quality Chicken: For the best results, don’t use chicken that is leaner than 93%. This helps to keep the meatballs juicy and flavorful.
Coat Well: Ensure each meatball is thoroughly coated in sauce before serving for maximum flavor.

Ways to Adapt This Recipe

Adapting the amazing Butter Chicken Meatballs is easy and fun! Here are some ideas to get you started:

Spice Levels: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to control the heat. If you prefer milder flavors, feel free to reduce it or omit it entirely.
Vegetarian Version: Swap out the ground chicken for chickpeas or vegetable protein for a vegetarian twist. Ensure to adjust flavors accordingly.
Serving Styles: Serve these meatballs over rice, in flatbreads, or with salads for a lighter option. They’re versatile!
Make it Ahead: Prepare the meatballs and sauce in advance and store them separately. Reheat for a quick meal during busy weeknights.
Freezing: You can freeze the meatballs before baking. Just thaw and bake them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

What Goes Well With This Butter Chicken Meatballs

Serving Butter Chicken Meatballs can be a delightful experience, and there are so many options to enhance the meal. Here are some great pairing ideas:

Fluffy Basmati Rice: Serve the meatballs over a bed of fluffy basmati rice, allowing the grains to soak up the creamy sauce.
Warm Naan: Freshly baked naan is perfect for dipping into the sauce. Its soft texture complements the dish beautifully.
Side Salad: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette can balance the richness of the meatballs and provide freshness.
Roasted Vegetables: Serve alongside roasted seasonal vegetables for a nutritious and colorful plate.
Great for Dinner Parties: These meatballs are an excellent choice for gatherings, bringing a taste of Indian cuisine to the table.
Storage Tips: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheat gently to enjoy again!

FAQ

Absolutely! These meatballs can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. You can also freeze them for up to three months. Just reheat in the oven or on the stovetop when you’re ready to enjoy them. Meal prepping makes weeknight dinners so much easier!

These delicious meatballs pair beautifully with fluffy basmati rice, warm naan, or a fresh salad. You can also enjoy them in a wrap or over pasta for a fun twist. The creamy sauce complements many sides, making it versatile for different meals.

If you prefer a milder flavor, simply reduce the amount of cayenne pepper or omit it altogether. The **curry powder** and **garam masala** will still provide robust flavor without the heat. Feel free to tailor the spices to suit your taste!

Yes, you can use ground turkey or even lean beef if you prefer. Just keep in mind that the flavor and texture might slightly change. Ensure that whatever meat you use is seasoned well to maintain the dish’s delicious profile.

Conclusion

The Butter Chicken Meatballs are truly a unique and flavorful dish that brings comfort and joy to any table. With its creamy, rich sauce and tender meatballs, it’s a meal that’s sure to please everyone. I encourage you to try making this dish soon; it’s easier than you think and absolutely worth it!