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Chicken Meatballs in Pumpkin Coconut Curry Sauce

Savory Chicken Meatballs in Pumpkin Coconut Curry Sauce

Chicken Meatballs in Pumpkin Coconut Curry Sauce are tender meatballs in a creamy, spiced sauce, perfect for gluten-free and dairy-free meals.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 meatballs
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Asian
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

For the Meatballs
  • 1 pound Lean Ground Chicken or Turkey Substitute with ground turkey for a leaner option.
  • 1 large Egg Use a flax egg for a vegan alternative.
  • 1/2 cup Panko Breadcrumbs Swap for gluten-free breadcrumbs or use coconut flour.
  • 1 tablespoon Brown Sugar/Coconut Sugar Maple syrup can work as a substitute.
  • 1-2 tablespoons Red Chili Paste Adjust based on your spice preference.
  • 1/4 cup Cilantro Parsley can be used as a substitute.
  • 3 tablespoons Green Onion Red onion is a great alternative.
  • 3 cloves Garlic Minced or powdered garlic can be a last resort.
  • 1 tablespoon Fresh Grated Ginger Use ground ginger in smaller amounts if necessary.
  • 1 teaspoon Ground Turmeric Omit if not available.
  • to taste pinch Salt & Black Pepper Adjust according to taste.
  • 2 tablespoons Sesame Oil Olive oil can be used as a substitute.
For the Pumpkin Coconut Curry Sauce
  • 1 can Lite Coconut Milk Use full-fat coconut milk for a richer taste.
  • 1 cup Pumpkin Puree Use homemade or canned pumpkin puree.
  • 1/4 cup Natural Creamy Peanut Butter Substitute with tahini or omit if allergic to nuts.
  • 2 tablespoons Low Sodium Soy Sauce/Coconut Aminos Use tamari for a gluten-free option.
  • 1 tablespoon Yellow Curry Powder Red curry paste can be used as an alternative.
For the Vegetables
  • 1 cup Carrot Feel free to swap for other vegetables like snap peas or zucchini.
  • 1 cup Red Bell Pepper Can replace with other veggies.
  • 1 cup Frozen Peas Fresh peas or green beans can replace them.

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Large Skillet
  • Whisk

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the lean ground chicken, egg, panko breadcrumbs, brown sugar, red chili paste, chopped cilantro, sliced green onion, minced garlic, grated ginger, turmeric, salt, and black pepper. Mix together until all ingredients are thoroughly incorporated, creating a sticky mixture. Form the mixture into 16 golf ball-sized meatballs, ensuring they hold their shape as you set them aside on a plate.
  2. In a large skillet, heat sesame oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. Carefully add the meatballs to the hot skillet, ensuring they have enough space to brown evenly. Cook for about 5-6 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are golden brown on all sides. Once browned, transfer the meatballs to a plate and set aside while you prepare the sauce.
  3. In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium-low. Add the lite coconut milk, pumpkin puree, natural creamy peanut butter, low sodium soy sauce, and yellow curry powder. Using a whisk, stir the mixture until it becomes smooth and well-blended, with the pumpkin and coconut forming a creamy base with a vibrant color.
  4. Gently return the browned meatballs to the skillet, ensuring they are nestled into the sauce. Add the sliced carrots on top and bring the mixture to a simmer over low heat. Cover the skillet with a lid and allow everything to simmer for 15-20 minutes, until the meatballs are cooked through and the flavors meld beautifully together.
  5. After 15 minutes of simmering, stir in the diced red bell pepper and frozen peas. Allow the dish to continue simmering uncovered for an additional 5 minutes to soften the vegetables.
  6. To serve, ladle the delicious chicken meatballs and vibrant sauce over a bed of coconut rice, brown rice, or your choice of noodles. Garnish with chopped peanuts, additional sliced scallions, and fresh cilantro for a pop of color and flavor. Enjoy the comforting harmony of the dish’s flavors, perfect for a cozy meal at home!

Nutrition

Serving: 1meatballCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 18gProtein: 22gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 180IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Ensure to use gluten-free breadcrumbs or coconut flour for the meatballs to keep the recipe gluten-free. Don't overmix the meatball mixture; just combine ingredients until moist and sticky for tender meatballs.

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