These Firecracker Chicken Meatballs are a must-have recipe for anyone who loves a balance of sweet and spicy flavors. Juicy and tender, these chicken meatballs are smothered in a bold firecracker sauce that combines the heat of hot sauce with the sweetness of brown sugar, a hint of tangy apple cider vinegar, and the savory umami of soy sauce. Perfect as an appetizer, game day snack, or even a flavorful main dish, these meatballs will be a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. Easy to prepare and versatile with stove-top, oven, and air fryer cooking methods, this recipe is your new go-to for bold, zesty flavors. Pair them with your favorite side dishes, or serve them solo for an unforgettable bite.
Ingredients
Chicken Meatballs:
2 large eggs
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
2 pounds ground chicken
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
Firecracker Sauce:
½ cup hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
½ – ¾ cup light brown sugar (adjust based on your preferred sweetness)
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon soy sauce
2 cloves garlic, minced
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Meatballs:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, minced garlic, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika until fully combined.
Add the ground chicken and breadcrumbs to the bowl. Mix gently with your hands until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the meatballs tender.
Form the mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs, approximately 2 tablespoons each. This recipe yields around 20-24 meatballs. Set them aside.
2. Choose Your Cooking Method:
Stove-Top Method:
Heat 2-3 tablespoons of oil in a large, deep skillet over medium heat.
Add the meatballs and cook for 5-7 minutes, turning frequently until browned on all sides.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the hot sauce, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, garlic, and red pepper flakes.
Pour the sauce into the skillet with the meatballs. Stir to coat evenly and cook for an additional 4-5 minutes until the meatballs are fully cooked and the sauce thickens.
Oven Method:
Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
Arrange the meatballs on the prepared sheets, leaving 1-2 inches of space between each.
Bake for 10-15 minutes, flipping the trays halfway through for even browning.
While the meatballs bake, prepare the sauce in a saucepan by combining all sauce ingredients and simmering over medium heat for 5-10 minutes.
Toss the baked meatballs in the sauce until well-coated.
Air Fryer Method:
Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (205°C) and spray the basket with olive oil.
Place the meatballs in a single layer in the basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded.
Cook for 12-15 minutes, flipping or shaking the basket after 8 minutes for even cooking.
Prepare the sauce as instructed in the oven method and toss the air-fried meatballs in the sauce.
3. Serve:
Serve the meatballs immediately, drizzled with extra sauce. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for added color and freshness.
Enjoy them on their own, or pair them with rice, salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
