Top Ad 728x90

Tuesday, December 9, 2025

Quick Christmas Cranberry Chicken Meatballs



 Quick Christmas Cranberry Chicken Meatballs 


Tender, juicy chicken meatballs coated in a tangy-sweet cranberry glaze. Ideal for holiday parties, cozy dinners, or even a festive meal prep option. Quick to make, gone even quicker.


Why This Recipe Works:


Easy to prep and bake

Holiday flavors without the stress

Sweet and savory balance

High in protein

Great as appetizer or main course


Ingredients:


For the Meatballs:

1 lb ground chicken

1/3 cup breadcrumbs

1 egg

2 tablespoons grated onion

2 cloves garlic, minced

2 tablespoons chopped parsley

1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For the Cranberry Glaze:

1 cup cranberry sauce (whole berry or jellied)

2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar

1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup

1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

Optional: a pinch of chili flakes for heat


Instructions:


Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment or lightly grease.

Make the meatballs: In a large bowl, combine all meatball ingredients. Mix gently until just combined. Roll into 1.5-inch balls.

Bake for 18–20 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and cooked through.

Prepare glaze: While meatballs bake, heat cranberry sauce, balsamic, honey, and Worcestershire in a small saucepan. Simmer until slightly thickened (about 5–7 minutes).

Toss and serve: Add baked meatballs to the saucepan or pour glaze over them in a bowl. Toss to coat.

Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve warm.


Tips & Variations:


Make ahead and reheat in slow cooker

Use ground turkey if preferred

Add orange zest to the glaze for a citrus twist

Great over rice, mashed potatoes, or toothpicked for party trays


0 comments:

Post a Comment

Top Ad 728x90