Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
thai chicken zucchini meatballs 2.png

Thai Zucchini Chicken Meatballs in Rich Coconut Curry – A One-Pan Wonder

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

🍲 This bold one-pan meal brings a fusion of Thai flavors with a comforting home-cooked feel, perfect for any night of the week.
πŸ₯’ With healthy zucchini and lean chicken, these meatballs are not only delicious but nutritious too, making it a family favorite choice.

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale

1 pound ground chicken
1 cup shredded and moisture-squeezed zucchini
2 shallots
2 green onions
2 teaspoons plus 1 tablespoon fresh ginger
2 cloves minced garlic
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Pinch of black pepper
1 1/2 teaspoons tamari or soy sauce
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 red bell pepper
2 tablespoons salted butter
1 to 3 tablespoons Thai red curry paste
1 can (14-ounce) coconut milk
1/4 cup fresh cilantro
Fresh basil or cilantro for garnish
Green onions
Fresh lime juice

Instructions

1. In a bowl, combine ground chicken, shredded zucchini, green onions, one shallot, 2 teaspoons of ginger, one garlic clove, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and 1 1/2 teaspoons of tamari or soy sauce. Mix until well integrated.
2. Shape the mixture into approximately 15-16 tablespoon-sized meatballs.
3. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, warm 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Sear meatballs, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides, about 4-5 minutes. Remove and keep aside.
4. To the same skillet, add remaining tablespoon of olive oil, chopped red bell pepper, second shallot, second garlic clove, 1 tablespoon ginger, butter, and the Thai red curry paste. SautΓ© until aromatic, about 2 minutes.
5. Stir in the coconut milk and remaining tamari or soy sauce, mixing to combine.
6. Return the meatballs to the skillet and simmer in the sauce until fully cooked, about 5 minutes.
7. Incorporate fresh cilantro, then serve over steamed rice, garnished with fresh basil, green onions, and a squeeze of lime juice.

Notes

πŸ₯„ Add an egg or panko breadcrumbs to the meat mixture to enhance moisture and binding.
πŸ› For a gluten-free meal, use gluten-free soy sauce and ensure breadcrumbs are also gluten-free.
πŸ”₯ Adjust the amount of curry paste to fit your preferred spice level, and try serving with cauliflower rice for a lighter version.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Thai
  • Diet: Gluten-Free adaptable

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
  • Calories: 357
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 900mg
  • Fat: 27g
  • Saturated Fat: 16g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 10g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 18g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg