If you're looking to elevate your dinner game with a dish that’s bursting with flavor and effortless to prepare, look no further than these Slow Cooker Thai Curry Chicken Meatballs! Imagine tender, juicy meatballs infused with the aromatic spices of Thai cuisine, all simmered to perfection in a creamy coconut sauce. This recipe not only promises to tantalize your taste buds but also allows you to enjoy a stress-free cooking experience. With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can set it and forget it, leaving you free to unwind while your slow cooker does all the work. Ready to impress your family or guests with a dish that’s as delicious as it is easy? Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe!
Ingredients
- Ground chicken (1 pound)
- Curry paste (2 tablespoons)
- Coconut milk (1 can)
- Breadcrumbs (1/2 cup)
- Egg (1 large)
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced)
- Salt (to taste)
- Fresh basil (for garnish)
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, 1 tablespoon of curry paste, and salt. Mix thoroughly until well incorporated.
- Using clean hands, shape the mixture into evenly sized meatballs, approximately
- 5 inches in diameter. You should yield about 18-20 meatballs.
- Lightly grease the slow cooker insert with cooking spray or oil to prevent sticking.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the remaining curry paste and coconut milk until smooth and well combined.
- Gently place the formed meatballs into the slow cooker, arranging them in a single layer if possible.
- Pour the coconut milk and curry paste mixture evenly over the meatballs, ensuring they are mostly covered.
- Cover the slow cooker and set to low heat. Cook for
- 5-4 hours, or until the meatballs are fully cooked and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Once done, carefully remove the meatballs and sauce from the slow cooker.
- Garnish with fresh chopped basil leaves before serving. Recommend serving over steamed rice or with crusty bread.
Tips
- Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, opt for fresh garlic and high-quality curry paste. Fresh basil as a garnish adds a delightful touch that elevates the dish.
- Don’t Overmix: When combining the meatball ingredients, mix just until incorporated. Overmixing can lead to tough meatballs.
- Shape Evenly: Aim for uniform meatball sizes (about
- 5 inches in diameter) to ensure even cooking throughout.
- Layering Matters: If possible, arrange the meatballs in a single layer in the slow cooker for better flavor absorption and more even cooking.
- Check Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the meatballs reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
- Serve Creatively: While serving over steamed rice is a classic option, consider pairing these meatballs with crusty bread or even quinoa for a fun twist.
- Make Ahead: This recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can make the meatballs ahead of time and freeze them. Just thaw and cook when you're ready for a delicious meal.
- Customize the Heat: Adjust the amount of curry paste based on your spice preference. Feel free to add more for a kick or use a milder paste for a family-friendly version.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 374kcal
Carbohydrates: 24g
Protein: 33g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 80mg
