Get ready to meet your new weeknight obsession! Sticky BBQ Chicken Meatballs with Broccoli Slaw is that perfect combo of saucy, savory, and just a little bit sweet paired with a fresh, crunchy slaw that makes every bite an absolute party. Picture tender chicken meatballs glazed in a luscious barbecue sauce, nestled next to a colorful, crisp broccoli slaw. It’s fast, it’s easy, and it’s outrageously delicious. Trust me, this one’s a total game-changer for busy nights when you still want something homemade and full of flavor!

Why You’ll Love Sticky BBQ Chicken Meatballs with Broccoli Slaw

This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner, hosting a get-together with friends, or simply indulging in some comforting flavors for yourself, this dish is versatile enough to fit the occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:

Versatile: Great for a weeknight dinner, meal prep, or even a fun party appetizer.

Budget-Friendly: Simple, affordable ingredients that stretch into a satisfying meal.

Quick and Easy: From start to finish in under an hour yes, really!

Customizable: Swap sauces, add toppings, or make it spicier to suit your vibe.

Crowd-Pleasing: A guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. It’s always a win when a single dish can satisfy everyone at the table. This recipe strikes the perfect balance of flavor and comfort, making it a universal favorite.

Ingredients in Sticky BBQ Chicken Meatballs with Broccoli Slaw

Simple ingredients come together for maximum flavor. Let’s break it down:

Ground Chicken: The base of our tender, juicy meatballs. Lean but packed with flavor!

Breadcrumbs: Helps bind the meatballs and keeps them soft and moist.

Egg: Acts as the glue that holds everything together.

Garlic: Freshly minced for a savory depth.

Onion: Adds a touch of sweetness and keeps the meatballs extra juicy.

BBQ Sauce: Sweet, tangy, and sticky the perfect finishing touch.

Olive Oil: For searing those meatballs to golden perfection.

Broccoli Slaw Mix: A colorful, crunchy blend of shredded broccoli stems, carrots, and cabbage.

Greek Yogurt: Creates a creamy, tangy base for the slaw dressing.

Apple Cider Vinegar: Brightens up the slaw with a little zing.

Honey: Adds a touch of natural sweetness to balance the tang.

Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to bring everything together.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:

Preheat Your Equipment

Preheat your oven to 400°F. This way, after searing, you can finish cooking the meatballs evenly in the oven.

Make the Meatball Mixture

In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, diced onion, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined overmixing can make them tough!

Form the Meatballs

Scoop and roll the mixture into meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. A cookie scoop works like magic here!

Sear the Meatballs

Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a large ovenproof skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs and sear for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown.

Bake the Meatballs

Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through (internal temperature should be 165°F).

Glaze the Meatballs

Return the skillet to the stovetop, pour the BBQ sauce over the meatballs, and toss to coat. Let simmer for a few minutes until the sauce thickens and clings beautifully to each meatball.

Make the Broccoli Slaw

While the meatballs bake, whip up the slaw! In a large bowl, mix the Greek yogurt, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper. Toss in the broccoli slaw mix until everything’s nicely coated.

Assemble the Dish

Pile your broccoli slaw onto plates and top with those sticky, saucy meatballs.

Finishing Touches

Sprinkle with chopped herbs, a few chili flakes, or even a little extra BBQ drizzle if you’re feeling fancy.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve right away while the meatballs are sticky and hot and the slaw is cool and crisp. It’s pure magic!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4 servings
Calories per serving: 370 calories

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

How to Serve Sticky BBQ Chicken Meatballs with Broccoli Slaw

This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and accompaniments. Here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:
Stuff the meatballs and slaw into a sandwich or wrap for a handheld meal.
Serve over a bed of rice or quinoa for a heartier dinner.
Pile them into slider buns with extra slaw for a party-perfect treat.
Top with sliced jalapeños or extra BBQ sauce for a spicy kick.

Additional Tips

Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:
Use a light hand when mixing the meatball ingredients to keep them tender.
If you don’t have an ovenproof skillet, transfer the seared meatballs to a baking dish before baking.
Taste your slaw dressing before tossing adjust the honey or vinegar to your liking!
Double the batch and freeze some meatballs for a quick future meal.
Add a little smoked paprika to the meatballs for extra smoky flavor.
Swap BBQ sauces to change the vibe spicy, smoky, honey BBQ, whatever you love.
Use panko breadcrumbs for an even lighter meatball texture.
Leftover slaw is amazing tucked into wraps and sandwiches.
Brush extra BBQ sauce over the meatballs just before serving for maximum stickiness.
If the sauce gets too thick, thin it out with a splash of water or apple cider vinegar.

FAQ’s

1. Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?
Yes, ground turkey works great in this recipe too!

2. What kind of BBQ sauce should I use?
Any you love! Sweet, smoky, spicy it’s all good.

3. Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?
Absolutely. Form them ahead and refrigerate until ready to cook.

4. How should I store leftovers?
Store meatballs and slaw separately in airtight containers in the fridge.

5. Can I freeze the cooked meatballs?
Yes, let them cool completely and freeze in a single layer before transferring to a bag.

6. Is the broccoli slaw raw or cooked?
It’s raw! It gives a refreshing crunch next to the sticky meatballs.

7. Can I use regular coleslaw mix instead of broccoli slaw?
Yes, regular coleslaw mix is a great substitute.

8. How spicy are these meatballs?
Not spicy unless you choose a spicy BBQ sauce or add chili flakes.

9. Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Use a dairy-free yogurt for the slaw dressing if needed.

10. What’s the best way to reheat the meatballs?
Gently reheat them in a covered skillet over medium heat or in the microwave.

Conclusion

Sticky BBQ Chicken Meatballs with Broccoli Slaw is one of those recipes that just feels like an instant classic. It’s hearty yet fresh, indulgent yet light, and guaranteed to make everyone at the table happy. Whether you’re serving it for dinner, meal prepping for the week, or showing off at your next party, this dish brings bold flavors and serious good vibes. Give it a try you’re going to be hooked!

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