Name: Jalapeño Cheddar Chicken Meatballs
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound lean ground chicken (94% lean preferred); Kosher salt and pepper, to taste; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 to 2 jalapeno peppers, seeded and diced; 3/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup seasoned breadcrumbs; 3 tablespoons chopped fresh herbs (parsley or chives); 1 to 2 tablespoons olive oil; Herby Summer Sauce:; 1/2 cup yogurt; 2 tablespoons mayo; Juice of 1/2 lemon; 1/3 cup chopped green onions; 1/3 cup chopped fresh cilantro; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives; Pinch of kosher salt and pepper

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These Jalapeño Cheddar Chicken Meatballs are juicy, cheesy, and packed with vibrant flavor. With spicy jalapeños, sharp cheddar, and fresh herbs, they’re pan-seared to golden perfection and served with a cool, tangy herby summer sauce. Perfect as an appetizer, main course, or meal prep option, this recipe delivers bold taste in just 30 minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These meatballs are the ultimate flavor-packed bite. They’re quick to make, seared until golden and crisp on the outside, and tender on the inside. The combination of spicy jalapeño and melted cheddar makes them anything but ordinary. Paired with a zesty yogurt herb sauce, they’re fresh, satisfying, and incredibly versatile. Serve them with rice, a grain bowl, or a simple salad for a complete meal.

Jalapeño Cheddar Chicken Meatballs

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the meatballs:

lean ground chicken
kosher salt and pepper
garlic
jalapeño peppers
shredded cheddar cheese
seasoned breadcrumbs
fresh herbs (parsley or chives)
olive oil

For the herby summer sauce:

yogurt
mayonnaise
lemon juice
green onions
fresh cilantro
fresh chives
kosher salt and pepper

Directions

In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, salt, pepper, garlic, diced jalapeños, shredded cheddar, breadcrumbs, and chopped herbs. Mix gently until just combined.
Roll the mixture into 1-inch meatballs using your hands or a small scoop.
Heat olive oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat.
Add the meatballs in a single layer and cook for 3–4 minutes until browned on one side.
Flip the meatballs and brown the other side for another 3–4 minutes.
Continue shaking the pan gently and cook until the meatballs are cooked through and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
To make the herby summer sauce, combine all sauce ingredients in a food processor or blender and blend until smooth and creamy.
Serve the meatballs warm with the herby sauce on the side or drizzled over top.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 4 servings.
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

Spicier: Leave the seeds in the jalapeños or use serrano peppers for more heat.
Milder: Use only one jalapeño or substitute with a mild green chili.
Dairy-free: Use a dairy-free cheddar and yogurt alternative for the sauce.
Gluten-free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to keep the recipe gluten-free.
Baked version: Bake the meatballs in a 400°F oven for 18–20 minutes instead of pan-searing.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover meatballs and sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

To reheat, warm the meatballs in a skillet over medium heat or microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through. The herby sauce can be used cold or brought to room temperature before serving.

FAQs

Can I bake the meatballs instead of pan-frying?

Yes, bake at 400°F for 18–20 minutes or until they reach 165°F internally.

What kind of cheese can I use?

Sharp cheddar is best for flavor, but you can also use pepper jack or mozzarella.

Are these meatballs spicy?

They’re mildly spicy. You can control the heat by adjusting the jalapeño quantity and whether you include the seeds.

Can I make them ahead of time?

Yes, you can shape the meatballs and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before cooking.

Is the herby sauce necessary?

It adds great contrast, but you can substitute it with your favorite dipping sauce if needed.

Can I freeze the cooked meatballs?

Yes, freeze them in a single layer, then transfer to a container or freezer bag for up to 2 months. Reheat before serving.

What can I serve with these meatballs?

Serve them with rice, quinoa, salad, or stuffed into wraps or pitas.

Can I use ground turkey instead?

Absolutely. Ground turkey is a great substitute for ground chicken in this recipe.

How do I prevent the meatballs from sticking to the pan?

Use a nonstick skillet and don’t overcrowd the pan. Let them brown before flipping.

How long does the herby sauce last?

Stored in the fridge, the sauce will stay fresh for up to 3–4 days.

Conclusion

Jalapeño Cheddar Chicken Meatballs are quick, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re serving them for dinner, party appetizers, or meal prep, they’re sure to impress with their cheesy, spicy bite and creamy herb sauce. Easy to make and even easier to love, this recipe is a keeper.