There’s nothing quite like the comforting smell of homemade teriyaki chicken meatballs filling your kitchen, especially on a busy weeknight. As I was juggling work and family commitments, I knew I needed a meal that could be quick, healthy, and loved by everyone at the table. Enter my Freezer Teriyaki Chicken Meatballs with Broccoli! These delightful bites aren’t just bursting with flavor; they’re the answer to my eternal quest for stress-free weeknight dinners.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. You can whip up a big batch, toss them in the freezer, and enjoy a delicious, home-cooked meal on even the most hectic of days. Imagine pulling these tender, savory meatballs and vibrant broccoli out of your freezer, popping them in the oven, and in just 20 minutes, serving dinner that feels nothing short of a culinary hug. With earthy ginger, fresh garlic, and a touch of sweetness from homemade teriyaki sauce, these meatballs are guaranteed to become a family favorite. Grab your ingredients, and let’s dive into this hassle-free recipe!
Why are Freezer Teriyaki Chicken Meatballs with Broccoli a game-changer?
Ease of Preparation: This recipe is incredibly simple to make, perfect for those busy weeknights when you need a hearty meal without hassle.
Flavor Explosion: With a perfect blend of ginger, garlic, and homemade teriyaki sauce, each bite delivers a burst of sweet and savory goodness that tantalizes your taste buds.
Freezer-Friendly: Make a large batch and freeze for up to three months. You’ll always have a delicious meal at the ready!
Nutritious and Wholesome: Packed with lean chicken and vibrant broccoli, you can feel good serving this dish to your loved ones.
Crowd-Pleasing: Great for family dinners, a quick meal prep solution, or even as party appetizers—everyone will rave about these meatballs!
Freezer Teriyaki Chicken Meatballs Ingredients
For the Meatballs
• 2 lbs ground chicken – Lean and flavorful, perfect for making juicy meatballs.
• 4 eggs – Acts as a binder to hold your meatballs together.
• 1 tbsp ginger, grated – Brings a warm, aromatic zing that elevates the flavor.
• 6 garlic cloves, minced – Adds depth and savory notes to the meat mixture.
• 1 cup panko – Ensures crispy, light texture in each meatball.
• 3 green onions, light and dark parts, chopped – Adds freshness and a mild onion flavor.
• 1 tsp salt – Enhances the overall flavor of the meatballs.
For the Broccoli
• 1 lb broccoli, florets – Nutrient-packed and adds a vibrant color to your plate.
For the Homemade Teriyaki Sauce
• 1 cup homemade teriyaki sauce – Use this for a rich, savory coating that binds all the flavors together.
• ¾ cup low-sodium soy sauce or tamari – Provides a salty umami base for the sauce.
• ⅓ cup honey – Offers a touch of sweetness that balances the saltiness.
• 2 garlic cloves, minced – Layering the garlic flavor for a richer sauce.
• 1 tbsp ginger, minced – Adds another dimension of flavor to the sauce.
• 1 tbsp chili paste – For those who love a little heat in their teriyaki!
• 1 tbsp lime juice – Brightens the sauce with a refreshing acidity.
• 1 tbsp corn starch – Helps to thicken the sauce for a perfect glaze.
• ¼ cup water – Adjusts the consistency of the sauce to your liking.
Get ready to enjoy these delightful Freezer Teriyaki Chicken Meatballs with Broccoli whenever the craving strikes!
How to Make Freezer Teriyaki Chicken Meatballs with Broccoli
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Preheat your oven to 400°F. This ensures our meatballs bake evenly and turn golden brown as they cook, sealing in all that juicy flavor.
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Mix the ground chicken, eggs, ginger, garlic, panko, green onions, and salt together. Use a stand mixer or your hands, incorporating these ingredients until they’re well-combined but not overworked.
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Scoop out the mixture using a cookie scoop or a heaping tablespoon. Aim for about 35 meatballs; this makes a delightful batch that your family will love!
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Arrange the meatballs on parchment-lined rimmed baking sheets. Make sure they have a little space between them to allow for even cooking.
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Bake them in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Rotate the pans halfway through to ensure even cooking and browning.
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Boil a large pot of water and add the broccoli florets. Cook for just 2 minutes to keep them vibrant and slightly tender. Quickly transfer them to a colander and cool under cold water.
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Prepare the homemade teriyaki sauce by whisking together all the sauce ingredients, then transfer it to a small ziplock freezer bag for easy storage later.
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Store the cooled meatballs and broccoli in a large freezer bag. Add in the teriyaki sauce bag, removing as much air as possible before sealing. They can stay flat in the freezer for up to 3 months.
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Optional: If you’d like to freeze raw meatballs, spread them on parchment-lined baking sheets and freeze for an hour before placing them in a freezer bag with the broccoli and teriyaki sauce.
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To Bake: When you’re ready to enjoy these tasty bites, run the frozen bag of meatballs and broccoli under warm water until the ingredients loosen. Preheat your oven again to 400°F, arrange everything on a baking sheet, and bake for 20 minutes.
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Serve them over rice or noodles, drizzled generously with your prepared teriyaki sauce for that perfect finishing touch.
Optional: Garnish with sesame seeds or extra green onions for a burst of flavor!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Freezer Teriyaki Chicken Meatballs with Broccoli?
Elevate dinner time with delightful sides that enhance the irresistible flavors of your teriyaki chicken meatballs.
- Steamed Jasmine Rice: The fluffy texture and subtle sweetness perfectly complements the savory teriyaki sauce and meatballs.
- Garlic Noodles: These buttery, garlicky noodles are a satisfying bed for your meatballs, soaking up every drop of that luscious sauce.
- Crispy Spring Rolls: The crunchy exterior and fresh veggie filling make for a delightful contrast to the tender meatballs. Serve alongside a dipping sauce for extra flavor!
- Sesame Cucumber Salad: With a refreshing crunch, this salad adds a crisp, light element to your meal, enhancing its taste and visual appeal.
- Miso Soup: This warm, savory soup balances the dish beautifully, providing an umami-rich broth that pairs wonderfully with the meatballs.
- Chilled Sake or Green Tea: Enhance your meal with a smooth beverage; each sip complements the sweet and savory notes of your teriyaki chicken meatballs.
- Fruit Sorbet: A light, refreshing dessert that cleanses the palate after a flavorful meal, offering a touch of sweetness to round off your dining experience.
- Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness and creamy texture serve as a great balance to the hearty meatballs, bringing extra warmth to the table.
Make Ahead Options
These Freezer Teriyaki Chicken Meatballs with Broccoli are a dream for meal prep enthusiasts! You can make the meatballs and freeze them for up to 3 months, ensuring you have a quick meal ready whenever needed. Simply prepare the meatballs and broccoli, then store them in a large freezer bag along with the homemade teriyaki sauce, removing as much air as possible to maintain quality. When you’re ready to eat, just run the frozen bag under warm water to loosen the ingredients, arrange them on a baking sheet, and bake for 20 minutes at 400°F. You’ll enjoy a delicious homemade meal in no time, perfect for those busy weeknights!
Freezer Teriyaki Chicken Meatballs Variations
Mix it up and take your Freezer Teriyaki Chicken Meatballs with Broccoli to the next level with these delightful variations!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute panko with quinoa or gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this dish accessible for everyone.
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Spicy Kick: Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the meat mixture for an exciting burst of heat that’s sure to please spice lovers.
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Vegetable Medley: Toss in shredded carrots or bell peppers with the broccoli to enhance the dish’s color, flavor, and nutrition.
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Asian Twist: Swap the honey for maple syrup and add a splash of sesame oil to the teriyaki sauce for a deeper, nuttier flavor profile.
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Cheesy Goodness: Mix some grated parmesan or mozzarella into the meat mixture for a cheesy bite that brings an extra layer of satisfaction.
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Low-Carb: Substitute ground chicken with finely chopped cauliflower rice for a lighter, keto-friendly option—just make sure to adjust your egg balance!
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Additional Flavor: Incorporate crushed pineapple into the teriyaki sauce for a delicious sweet and tangy twist that pairs beautifully with the chicken.
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Herb Infusion: Add fresh basil or cilantro to the meat mixture for a herbaceous touch that’ll elevate the whole dish with freshness.
These variations can transform your basic recipe into a culinary adventure, inviting you to enjoy each bite differently!
Expert Tips for Freezer Teriyaki Chicken Meatballs with Broccoli
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Texture Matters: Ensure you don’t overmix the meatball mixture; this keeps them tender and juicy.
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Perfect Meatball Size: Using a cookie scoop guarantees uniform size, ensuring even cooking for your freezer teriyaki chicken meatballs with broccoli.
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Chill the Mixture: If the mixture feels too sticky, chill it in the fridge for 15-30 minutes before scooping. This makes shaping much easier!
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Vegetable Prep: Quickly blanch the broccoli for only 2 minutes to keep it vibrant and slightly crunchy when baked.
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Smart Freezing: Lay meatballs flat in the freezer bag to prevent them from sticking together, making future meal prep a breeze!
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Adjust Sauce Thickness: If your teriyaki sauce is too thick, add a little more water; this ensures a perfect glaze over the meatballs once baked.
How to Store and Freeze Freezer Teriyaki Chicken Meatballs with Broccoli
Room Temperature: Serve your meatballs warm right after baking for the best taste. Avoid leaving them at room temperature for more than 2 hours to maintain freshness.
Fridge: If you have leftover meatballs, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat in the oven or microwave before serving!
Freezer: To maintain peak flavor, freeze the meatballs and broccoli together in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Be sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy your delicious freezer teriyaki chicken meatballs with broccoli, bake from frozen at 400°F for about 20 minutes or until heated through, then serve with your favorite rice or noodles.
Freezer Teriyaki Chicken Meatballs with Broccoli Recipe FAQs
How do I select ripe ingredients for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best broccoli, look for vibrant green florets without any dark spots or yellowing—these are signs of freshness. As for the ginger, choose a firm piece without any wrinkles or soft spots. Your garlic should also be firm and dry, ensuring the best flavor in your meatballs.
What is the best way to store leftovers?
Very! If you have leftover meatballs, store them in an airtight container in the fridge and enjoy them within 3 days. Just reheat them in the oven or microwave before serving. This preserves their taste and texture while keeping the meal fresh.
Can I freeze these meatballs? How?
Absolutely! To freeze your meatballs, let them cool completely after baking. Then, place them in a large freezer bag along with the broccoli and teriyaki sauce. Remove as much air as possible before sealing and lay the bag flat in the freezer. They’ll be good for up to 3 months. For raw meatballs, freeze them on a parchment-lined sheet for about an hour first, then transfer to the freezer bag, following the same steps.
What if my teriyaki sauce is too thick?
No problem! If your teriyaki sauce ends up too thick after refrigerating, simply whisk in a little warm water until you reach your desired consistency. This will ensure a smooth glaze that coats your meatballs beautifully once baked.
Are these meatballs safe for pets?
Notably, while this recipe isn’t harmful to pets, it’s best to avoid giving them the teriyaki sauce, as it contains soy sauce, which can be too salty for their diets. The meatballs themselves are fine in moderation; always consult your veterinarian if you’re unsure about new foods for your furry friends.
What if my meatballs fall apart while baking?
No worries! If your meatballs crumble, they might have been overmixed or lacked enough bonding agents. Ensure you’re mixing the ingredients just until combined and try adding a touch more panko or an extra egg for future batches to improve the binding. A light chill in the fridge before baking can also help them hold their shape better.
Freezer Teriyaki Chicken Meatballs with Broccoli Made Easy
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F.
- Mix the ground chicken, eggs, ginger, garlic, panko, green onions, and salt together.
- Scoop out the mixture using a cookie scoop or a heaping tablespoon. Aim for about 35 meatballs.
- Arrange the meatballs on parchment-lined rimmed baking sheets.
- Bake them in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
- Boil a large pot of water and add the broccoli florets. Cook for just 2 minutes.
- Prepare the homemade teriyaki sauce by whisking together all the sauce ingredients.
- Store the cooled meatballs and broccoli in a large freezer bag.
- If you'd like to freeze raw meatballs, spread them on parchment-lined baking sheets and freeze for an hour.
- When you're ready to enjoy, run the frozen bag of meatballs and broccoli under warm water until loosened.
- To Bake: Preheat your oven again to 400°F and bake for 20 minutes.
- Serve them over rice or noodles, drizzled with teriyaki sauce.