Sweet and Sour Chicken Meatballs are one of those meals I love making when I want bold flavors and comfort food energy while still keeping dinner fun and family friendly because this recipe brings together juicy meatballs and a glossy sauce in the best way.

Sweet and Sour Chicken Meatballs always remind me how easy it can be to turn simple ingredients into something exciting and satisfying especially on busy weeknights when I want quick ideas without stress

I enjoy this recipe because it lets me prep ahead cook everything in one pan and still serve a colorful dish that feels special for both everyday dinners and casual gatherings

If you love sweet savory balance and easy homemade meals this recipe deserves a spot in your rotation

Ingredients

Here’s what I use for this recipe and why each ingredient matters.

Ground chicken – The base of the meatballs giving a tender and juicy texture
Breadcrumbs – Help bind the meatballs and keep them soft
Egg – Holds everything together and adds richness
Parmesan cheese – Adds savory depth to the meatballs
Garlic – Boosts flavor throughout the dish
Green onions – Add freshness and mild onion flavor
Salt – Enhances all the ingredients
Black pepper – Adds gentle warmth and balance
Bell peppers – Bring color sweetness and crunch to the sauce
Pineapple chunks – Add signature sweet and tangy flavor
Ketchup – Forms the base of the sweet and sour sauce
Rice vinegar – Provides acidity to balance sweetness
Soy sauce – Adds savory umami notes
Brown sugar – Sweetens the sauce and deepens flavor
Cornstarch – Thickens the sauce to a glossy finish

Tools You’ll Need

These tools help make the process smooth from start to finish.
Mixing bowl – Used to combine the meatball ingredients evenly
Baking sheet – Holds the meatballs while they bake
Parchment paper – Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy
Large skillet – Used to cook the sauce and finish the meatballs
Spatula or spoon – Helps stir the sauce gently
Measuring cups and spoons – Keep flavors balanced and consistent

Instructions

Step 1 Prepare the Meatballs

I start by adding ground chicken breadcrumbs egg Parmesan garlic green onions salt and black pepper to a large bowl. I mix gently until just combined so the meatballs stay tender. I roll the mixture into evenly sized balls and place them on a parchment lined baking sheet.

Step 2 Bake the Meatballs

I bake the meatballs until they are cooked through and lightly golden. This step helps them hold their shape before going into the sauce and keeps everything neat and easy.

Step 3 Make the Sweet and Sour Sauce

While the meatballs cook I heat a skillet and add bell peppers and pineapple. I stir in ketchup rice vinegar soy sauce and brown sugar then let the mixture simmer. I mix cornstarch with a little water and add it to the skillet stirring until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy.

Step 4 Combine and Simmer

I gently add the baked meatballs into the sauce and spoon it over them so every piece is coated. I let everything simmer together so the flavors meld and the meatballs absorb the sauce.

Step 5 Finish and Serve

I taste the sauce and adjust seasoning if needed then remove from heat once everything is perfectly coated and shiny.

Tips

I like to mix the meatball ingredients gently because overmixing can make them dense. If you want extra caramelized flavor you can broil the meatballs briefly before adding them to the sauce. I also recommend cutting the vegetables evenly so they cook at the same rate and stay vibrant. If the sauce thickens too much a small splash of water helps loosen it.

Ways to Serve

I love serving Sweet and Sour Chicken Meatballs over steamed white rice so the sauce soaks into every bite. They also pair beautifully with jasmine rice fried rice or even noodles for a twist. For a lighter option I serve them with cauliflower rice or alongside sautéed vegetables. These meatballs also work well as party appetizers with toothpicks.

Storage Instructions

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator where they stay fresh for up to three days. When reheating I warm them gently on the stovetop or in the microwave adding a splash of water if the sauce thickens. These meatballs also freeze well and can be reheated straight from frozen.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Sweet and Sour Chicken Meatballs ahead of time

Yes you can cook the meatballs and sauce separately then combine and reheat before serving.

Can Sweet and Sour Chicken Meatballs be baked only

Yes they can be baked and served with sauce poured over if you prefer not to simmer.

See You in the Kitchen

I hope you try these Sweet and Sour Chicken Meatballs because they truly bring big flavor with minimal effort. If you make them I’d love to hear how they turned out. Save this recipe and enjoy it anytime you need a quick comforting meal.

Happy Cooking!