13 BBQ Chicken Meatball Ideas Perfect For Party Platters Or Weeknight Wins

13 BBQ Chicken Meatball Ideas Perfect For Party Platters Or Weeknight Wins – these bite-sized flavor bombs will become your new go-to for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a game day gathering, planning appetizers for your next potluck, or just need a quick family dinner solution, these saucy, smoky chicken meatballs deliver maximum taste with minimum fuss. From sticky-sweet bourbon glazed versions to spicy buffalo-style bites, we’ve got every craving covered with crowd-pleasing recipes that work equally well as party stars or easy meal heroes.

These versatile meatballs transform ordinary ground chicken into extraordinary eats with creative flavor combinations that’ll have everyone reaching for more. Picture tender, juicy meatballs swimming in tangy barbecue sauce, caramelized under the broiler for that perfect sticky finish, or served as skewered appetizers with a creamy dipping sauce. The best part? Most recipes come together in 30 minutes or less, using simple ingredients you probably already have in your pantry. We’ve included make-ahead tips, slow cooker options, and even some unexpected global twists to keep your meatball game strong all year round.

Honey Garlic BBQ Chicken Meatballs

Honey Garlic BBQ Chicken Meatballs are the perfect blend of sweet and savory. These tender meatballs, infused with honey and garlic flavors, create a delightful treat that everyone will love. They are easy to prepare, making them a fantastic option for both gatherings and weeknight dinners.

The sticky, rich BBQ sauce adds an extra layer of deliciousness that makes these meatballs irresistible. Serve them as appetizers or toss them into your favorite dishes for a hearty meal. You can even customize the flavors by adding your favorite spices or herbs!

Mediterranean BBQ Chicken Meatballs

Mediterranean BBQ Chicken Meatballs are a delightful twist on traditional meatballs, bringing together a medley of vibrant flavors. Combining lean ground chicken with Mediterranean spices, fresh herbs, and a tangy barbecue sauce, these meatballs deliver a taste of the Mediterranean that is both savory and satisfying. They’re simple to make, making them perfect for both weeknight dinners and party platters.

These meatballs can be served with a cooling yogurt sauce or sprinkled with feta cheese for an extra touch of flavor. Whether you’re serving them as appetizers or tossing them in a salad, they’re bound to impress guests and family alike!

Buffalo BBQ Chicken Meatballs

Buffalo BBQ chicken meatballs are a perfect blend of spicy and sweet, making them a hit for any gathering or a cozy night in. These meatballs pack a punch with their bold flavors and are incredibly easy to whip up. Just mix the ingredients, shape the meatballs, and let them bake to juicy perfection!

Whether served as appetizers or as part of a main dish, they’re sure to satisfy any craving. Pair them with celery sticks and a cooling ranch dressing for the ultimate taste experience.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground chicken
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 cup buffalo sauce
• 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, green onions, egg, buffalo sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Mix until well combined, then shape the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the meatballs are cooked through and golden brown.
5. Remove from the oven and toss in BBQ sauce for an extra layer of flavor before serving.

Sweet and Spicy BBQ Chicken Meatballs

Sweet and spicy BBQ chicken meatballs are a fantastic option for any gathering or weeknight dinner. They pack a punch with a delicious blend of flavors that keeps everyone coming back for more. Plus, they’re super easy to whip up, making them a go-to recipe for busy cooks.

The meatballs are juicy and flavorful, coated in a sticky BBQ sauce that balances sweetness and heat perfectly. You can serve them with toothpicks for a party platter or alongside rice for a cozy meal at home. Either way, these meatballs are sure to please!

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground chicken
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 cup BBQ sauce (plus more for coating)
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, onion, garlic, egg, salt, pepper, paprika, BBQ sauce, honey, and chili powder. Mix until just combined.
3. Form the mixture into meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the meatballs are cooked through and golden brown.
5. During the last few minutes of baking, brush additional BBQ sauce over the meatballs for extra flavor.
6. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh cilantro.

Cilantro Lime BBQ Chicken Meatballs

Cilantro Lime BBQ Chicken Meatballs are a burst of flavor that can elevate any gathering. The blend of fresh cilantro and zesty lime adds a refreshing twist to the classic BBQ meatball. They’re not only delicious but also easy to whip up, making them perfect for party platters or a quick weeknight meal.

The tangy lime and vibrant cilantro create a delightful contrast with the sweetness of the BBQ sauce, resulting in tender meatballs that are both savory and slightly tangy. These meatballs are sure to please a crowd and are versatile enough to serve in various ways, whether as appetizers or part of a main dish.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground chicken
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup cilantro, finely chopped
• 1 large egg
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 1 cup BBQ sauce
• Extra cilantro for garnish
• Lime wedges for serving

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, chopped cilantro, egg, lime juice, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
3. Form the mixture into meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and golden brown.
5. Remove the meatballs from the oven and brush them with BBQ sauce. Return to the oven for another 5 minutes to caramelize the sauce.
6. Garnish with extra cilantro and serve with lime wedges on the side.

Smoky Chipotle BBQ Chicken Meatballs

Smoky Chipotle BBQ Chicken Meatballs are a fun and flavorful twist on a classic dish. These meatballs are packed with a smoky, spicy kick that makes them perfect for parties or weeknight dinners. They’re easy to whip up and will have everyone coming back for seconds!

The rich chipotle flavor combined with the sweet BBQ sauce creates a delightful balance that will tantalize your taste buds. Plus, they’re baked, making them a healthier option without sacrificing taste. Serve them as an appetizer with a dipping sauce or toss them into your favorite pasta for a quick meal!

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground chicken
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1 egg
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon chipotle in adobo sauce, minced
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup BBQ sauce

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, cilantro, egg, garlic, chipotle, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Mix until well combined, then form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
4. Place the meatballs on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes until cooked through and golden brown.
5. In the last few minutes of baking, brush the meatballs with BBQ sauce and return to the oven to caramelize.
6. Serve warm with extra BBQ sauce for dipping.

Teriyaki BBQ Chicken Meatballs

Teriyaki BBQ chicken meatballs are a delightful fusion of sweet and savory flavors. These tender, juicy meatballs are coated in a rich teriyaki sauce, making them perfect for both party platters and quick weeknight dinners. They are super easy to prepare, using just a handful of ingredients that you probably already have on hand.

Your taste buds will love the combination of tangy teriyaki and the satisfying texture of the chicken meatballs. Serve them over rice or noodles, or let your guests enjoy them as a tasty appetizer. Either way, they are sure to be a hit!

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground chicken
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions
• 1 large egg
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
• 1/4 cup barbecue sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, green onions, egg, garlic, ginger, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
3. Form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Bake the meatballs for 15-20 minutes, or until they are cooked through and golden brown.
5. While the meatballs are baking, mix the teriyaki sauce and barbecue sauce in a small bowl.
6. Once the meatballs are done, remove them from the oven and toss them in the teriyaki BBQ sauce mixture until well coated.
7. Sprinkle sesame seeds on top before serving. Enjoy!

BBQ Chicken Meatball Sliders

BBQ chicken meatball sliders are a delightful twist on traditional sliders, perfect for gatherings or a quick weeknight meal. They combine juicy chicken meatballs with tangy BBQ sauce, all nestled within soft slider buns. The taste is a sweet and savory explosion, with a hint of smokiness that pairs beautifully with crunchy toppings.

This recipe is straightforward and requires minimal prep time, making it ideal even for those busy weekday evenings. Everyone will love the combination of flavors and textures, ensuring these sliders will be a hit at your next party!

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground chicken
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup BBQ sauce
• 12 slider buns
• Pickles and coleslaw for topping

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, green onions, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
3. Form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Bake the meatballs for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through and golden brown.
5. In a saucepan, heat the BBQ sauce over medium heat. Once the meatballs are cooked, add them to the sauce and stir to coat.
6. To assemble, place a meatball inside each slider bun, top with pickles and coleslaw, and serve warm.

Peanut Butter BBQ Chicken Meatballs

These Peanut Butter BBQ Chicken Meatballs bring a fun twist to your classic barbecue fare. With a rich, nutty flavor from the peanut butter balanced by a tangy BBQ sauce, they are both savory and satisfying. Perfect for parties or a quick weeknight meal, they’re easy to whip up and sure to impress your guests or family.

Making these meatballs is simple, and the ingredients come together quickly. Just mix ground chicken with peanut butter, breadcrumbs, and spices, roll them into balls, and bake or pan-fry until golden. Toss them in your favorite BBQ sauce for a sticky, finger-licking finish that everyone will love!

Mango BBQ Chicken Meatballs

Mango BBQ chicken meatballs bring a delightful twist to your usual party platter. With the sweetness of ripe mangoes blending perfectly with smoky BBQ flavors, these meatballs are both juicy and bursting with flavor. They’re simple to whip up, making them great for both casual weeknight dinners and festive gatherings.

These meatballs are a hit for their unique taste. The combination of mango and BBQ sauce creates a tangy and sweet profile that will have everyone coming back for more. Plus, they can be served as appetizers or main course items, making them incredibly versatile.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground chicken
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh mango
• 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Extra BBQ sauce for glazing

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, mix together the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, chopped mango, BBQ sauce, cilantro, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. Form the mixture into meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and golden brown.
5. Brush the meatballs with extra BBQ sauce during the last 5 minutes of baking for added flavor.

BBQ Chicken Meatball Skewers

BBQ chicken meatball skewers are a fun and tasty dish that’s perfect for gatherings or a quick weeknight meal. These skewers combine juicy chicken meatballs coated in tangy BBQ sauce, making them a crowd-pleaser for both kids and adults. Easy to assemble and cook, they take minimal time to prepare, so you can focus on enjoying your time with family and friends.

The savory and sweet flavors of the barbecue sauce complement the tender meatballs, creating a delightful bite in every skewer. Serve them with extra sauce for dipping, and you’ll have a hit at your next party or a simple dinner option that everyone will love!

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground chicken
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup BBQ sauce
• Skewers (wooden or metal)

Instructions

1. Preheat your grill or oven to medium heat.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
3. Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
4. Thread the meatballs onto skewers, leaving a little space between each one for even cooking.
5. Brush the meatballs with BBQ sauce and place them on the grill or in the oven. Cook for about 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally, until fully cooked and no longer pink in the center.
6. Serve hot with additional BBQ sauce for dipping. Enjoy!

Apple Cider BBQ Chicken Meatballs

Apple Cider BBQ Chicken Meatballs are a delightful twist on the classic BBQ flavor. These meatballs pack a sweet and tangy punch, thanks to the apple cider that adds a unique depth to the sauce. They’re juicy, tender, and perfect for any gathering or a simple weeknight dinner.

Making these meatballs is straightforward and fun! With just a few ingredients, you can whip up a batch that will impress your family and friends. Serve them on a platter for parties, or enjoy them as a quick meal any night of the week.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground chicken
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
• 1 large egg
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup apple cider
• 1 cup BBQ sauce
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a baking sheet.
2. In a large bowl, mix together the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, onion, egg, garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. Form the mixture into meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Bake the meatballs for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through and golden brown.
5. While the meatballs are baking, combine apple cider and BBQ sauce in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in apple cider vinegar and let it simmer for about 5-7 minutes.
6. Once the meatballs are done, toss them in the apple cider BBQ sauce until well coated. Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley.

Zesty Italian BBQ Chicken Meatballs

These zesty Italian BBQ chicken meatballs are a delightful fusion of flavors that brings an exciting twist to your party platters or weeknight dinners. Bursting with the savory taste of Italian herbs and a tangy BBQ sauce, they are simple to whip up, making them a go-to recipe for any occasion.

Whether served as an appetizer or a main dish, these meatballs are sure to please a crowd. With the right balance of spices and a flavorful sauce, they’re juicy, tender, and utterly satisfying. Plus, they come together quickly, making this dish perfect for both casual family meals or festive gatherings!

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground chicken
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
• 1/4 cup marinara sauce
• Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
3. Form the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes until cooked through and golden brown.
5. While the meatballs are baking, mix the BBQ sauce and marinara sauce in a small saucepan and heat over low until warm.
6. Once the meatballs are done, toss them in the warm sauce mixture before serving.
7. Garnish with fresh basil and enjoy!

Final Thoughts

BBQ chicken meatballs are the ultimate culinary multitaskers – equally at home on fancy toothpicks at your next gathering or piled high over rice for a stress-free dinner. Their magic lies in that perfect balance of lean protein and bold sauce, creating bites that satisfy without weighing you down. Whether you stick with classic smoky flavors or experiment with new combinations, these recipes prove good things really do come in small packages. Keep a batch in your freezer for last-minute entertaining, or make them your secret weapon for breaking the weeknight dinner rut – either way, they’re guaranteed to earn rave reviews and empty plates every time.