Honey Lemon Chicken Meatballs – Juicy, Tangy, and Ready in 25 Minutes!
Honey Lemon Chicken Meatballs, an easy, high-protein dinner that’s sweet, zesty, and perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.
We are all more or less familiar with meatballs, so I won’t say anything new about them, but the recipe I have here today is truly amazing. These Honey Lemon Chicken Meatballs are a super quick, healthy, and flavor-packed dinner that’s ready in under 30 minutes. Juicy, tender, and coated in a glossy sweet-and-tangy lemon honey glaze, this dish delivers the perfect balance of high-protein nutrition and gourmet taste — without the fuss.
This recipe is a budget-friendly family dinner, a Weight Watchers–friendly high protein meal prep idea, and a low fat chicken dinner that works for weeknights, gatherings, or even as an elegant appetizer. This recipe is perfect for meal prepping for weight loss, a healthy weeknight dinner, or easy Asian-inspired chicken recipes.
Made with lean ground chicken, fresh lemon juice, and pure honey, these meatballs are naturally gluten-free, low in calories, and can be adapted for low-carb or keto diets. It contains the health benefits of lemon (vitamin C, immunity) and honey (natural sweetener), which makes it a very healthy recipe. The result? A light yet satisfying meal that’s packed with nutrients, rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, and kid-approved.
Related: Kolkata Style Chicken Frankie
Honey Lemon Chicken Meatballs Recipe
These Honey Lemon Chicken Meatballs are juicy, tender, and bursting with sweet-tangy citrus flavor. Made with lean ground chicken, fresh lemon juice, and a luscious honey glaze, they’re perfect for healthy weeknight dinners, high-protein meal prep, or low-fat family meals. This easy recipe takes under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights, Weight Watchers meals, or gluten-free lunch ideas. Serve with steamed rice, zoodles, or a fresh salad for a light yet satisfying dish.
Ingredients
For the Meatballs
- 1 lb (450 g) ground chicken breast (lean)
- 1 large egg (for binding)
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs (or almond flour for low-carb)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
For the Honey Lemon Sauce
- ¼ cup honey (raw, organic for best flavor)
- 3 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 1 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil
- 2 tsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water (slurry, for thickening)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven or Pan – Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) or heat a large skillet over medium heat with a drizzle of oil.
- Mix Meatball Ingredients – In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, egg, breadcrumbs, parsley, garlic, lemon zest, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined but do not overmix.
- Form Meatballs – Using damp hands or a small cookie scoop, form 1-inch meatballs (about 16–18 pieces).
- Cook Meatballs –
Oven Method: Arrange meatballs on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 12–14 minutes, until cooked through (165°F internal temp).
Skillet Method: Pan-sear for 8–10 minutes, turning occasionally until golden and fully cooked. - Make Honey Lemon Sauce – In a small saucepan, whisk together honey, lemon juice, lemon zest, soy sauce, and olive oil. Bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in cornstarch slurry and cook until thickened (1–2 minutes).
- Combine & Serve – Toss cooked meatballs in the honey lemon sauce until coated. Garnish with extra parsley or sesame seeds. Serve hot.
Notes
- Juicier Meatballs: Don’t overmix the ground chicken—light mixing keeps them tender.
- Citrus Boost: Add extra lemon zest for a stronger citrus aroma.
- Low-Carb Option: Swap panko breadcrumbs with almond flour.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
- Weight Watchers Tip: Use less honey or a sugar-free honey substitute for fewer points.
🍽 Serving Suggestions
- Serve over jasmine rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice for a balanced bowl.
- Pair with roasted vegetables, stir-fried greens, or zucchini noodles.
- Make it a party appetizer by skewering meatballs and drizzling sauce before serving.
Nutrition Information:
Yield:
4Serving Size:
1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 260Total Fat: 10gSaturated Fat: 2gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 72mgSodium: 560mgCarbohydrates: 31gFiber: 1gSugar: 19gProtein: 13g
About This Honey Lemon Chicken Meatballs Recipe
Juicy, high-protein Honey Lemon Chicken Meatballs in a sticky, sweet-tangy citrus glaze— a 30-minute, budget-friendly, family dinner that fits healthy weeknight meals, meal prep, weight loss goals, and gluten-free or low-carb lifestyles.
Table
- ✅ Healthy weeknight dinner with lean ground chicken, olive/avocado oil, and a naturally sweet honey-lemon sauce.
- ✅ High-protein recipe to support a high protein diet, muscle gain, or weight loss recipe goals.
- ✅ Low effort, maximum flavor: one bowl to mix, simple sauce, minimal dishes—perfect easy chicken recipe.
- ✅ Flexible cooking: bake, pan-sear, or air fryer chicken meatballs for crisp edges and juicy centers.
- ✅ Diet-friendly swaps: gluten-free breadcrumbs/tamari, almond flour for low-carb/keto diet vibes, sugar-free honey substitute for Weight Watchers points control.
- ✅ Meal prep chicken recipe: reheats well, freezer-ready—ideal for lunch meal prep containers and busy schedules.
- ✅ Budget dinner idea: pantry staples + citrus = restaurant-style flavor without the price tag.
For safe, juicy results, cook poultry to 165°F (74°C). See official guidance at FoodSafety.gov.
Real-Life Benefits & Use Cases
- 🍽️ Sweet & tangy flavor (honey + lemon zest + soy/tamari) that the whole family loves.
- 📦 Portion-control friendly—perfect for macro tracking, calorie control, and nutrition facts transparency.
- 🥒 Serve your way: rice or quinoa bowl, lettuce wraps for low carb, or appetizer skewers for parties.
- 🧰 Best tools: nonstick skillet • sheet pan • citrus zester • cookie scoop
- 🌿 Clean ingredients: lemon, garlic, parsley—no artificial flavors needed.
Related: High Protein Salad Bowls
Ingredients You’ll Need
💪 High-Protein • 🥗 Low-Fat • ⏱️ 25-Minute DinnerFor the Chicken Meatballs
- 1 lb (450 g) Lean ground chicken breast — cornerstone for high-protein, low-fat dinners and meal prep.
- 1 Large egg — natural binder for tender, juicy meatballs (better texture, fewer crumbs).
- ½ cup Panko breadcrumbs — use gluten-free panko or almond flour for low-carb/keto.
- 2 tbsp Fresh parsley, chopped — clean, herbaceous lift; antioxidant-rich.
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced — savory balance for the sweet citrus glaze.
- 1 tsp Lemon zest — concentrated citrus oils amplify lemon flavor without extra liquid.
- ½ tsp Onion powder — dependable pantry depth.
- ½ tsp Kosher salt — enhances natural chicken flavor.
- ¼ tsp Black pepper — freshly ground for subtle heat.
For the Honey Lemon Sauce (Sweet-Tangy Glaze)
- ¼ cup Honey — raw or organic preferred for premium flavor; key to honey chicken recipes.
- 3 tbsp Fresh lemon juice — bright acidity for balance; avoid bottled for best results.
- 1 tsp Lemon zest — doubles the citrus punch for that restaurant-style glaze.
- 1 tbsp Low-sodium soy sauce — or tamari (gluten-free) for savory umami.
- 1 tbsp Olive oil or avocado oil — heart-healthy fats, smooth mouthfeel.
- 2 tsp + 2 tbsp water Cornstarch slurry — thickens to a glossy, takeout-style finish.
Related: Instant Pot Pulled Chicken Recipe
How to Make Honey Lemon Chicken Meatballs (Juicy, Healthy & Weeknight-Fast)
Follow these simple cooking instructions (oven, skillet, or air fryer) to get tender, high-protein chicken meatballs coated in a glossy honey lemon sauce.
Short on time? Choose the skillet for speed, the oven for set-and-forget, or the air fryer for crisp edges with less oil (great for low calorie dinners).
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1) Prep your station (mise en place)
Preheat oven to 200°C / 400°F (or set air fryer to 190°C / 375°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment and lightly oil a non-stick skillet. Assemble ingredients: lean ground chicken, egg, panko (or almond flour), garlic, parsley, lemon zest, salt & pepper. This speeds up cooking and prevents drying out.
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2) Mix the meatball base gently
In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, egg, breadcrumbs (or almond flour for low carb), garlic, parsley, lemon zest, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix with a fork or your hands just until combined—overmixing makes chicken tough.
- For Weight Watchers points savings, reduce breadcrumbs and add extra parsley.
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3) Scoop & shape evenly
Use a 1-inch scoop or damp hands to portion into 16–18 meatballs. Even sizing ensures they all cook to a safe 74°C / 165°F without drying out.
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4) Cook (choose your method)
Oven: Bake on a lined tray for 12–14 min. Skillet: Sear over medium heat with 1–2 tsp olive oil, turning for 8–10 min. Air Fryer: 10–12 min at 190°C / 375°F, shake halfway.
- Use a probe thermometer for perfect doneness; no guesswork.
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5) Whisk the honey-lemon glaze
In a saucepan, whisk honey, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, low-sodium soy or tamari, and a little olive oil. Simmer, then stir in a cornstarch slurry to thicken to a glossy, spoon-coating sauce.
- Prefer refined-sugar-free? Use raw honey and reduce quantity by 1 tbsp.
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6) Coat & reduce
Add cooked meatballs to the pan and toss until evenly coated. Let the glaze reduce for 30–60 seconds to cling to each meatball. Finish with extra lemon zest for a bright, restaurant-style finish.
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7) Serve your way
Plate over jasmine rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice, or serve as a party appetizer with picks. Add steamed greens or a simple salad for a balanced, low-fat dinner.
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8) Meal prep & store
Cool completely and portion into meal prep containers. Refrigerate up to 4 days or freeze up to 2 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water to keep meatballs juicy.
Suggested: Low-Carb Breakfast Burrito Recipes
Pro Tips for Perfect Honey Lemon Chicken Meatballs
Keep the Meat Tender — Don’t Overmix
Why it matters: Overworking ground chicken makes meatballs dense and dry. Mix gently until ingredients are just combined.
Tip from me: Want juicier meatballs now? Use a light hand, or mix with a fork instead of a mixer.
Add Fat for Flavor — Use a Touch of Olive Oil or Egg
Lean ground chicken is healthy but can be dry. Add 1 egg or 1–2 tbsp olive oil, or mix in finely chopped onion for moisture.
Zest the Lemon — Aroma Over Juice
Lemon zest contains essential oils that boost aroma far more than juice. Add zest to both meatballs and sauce for bright citrus flavor.
Choose the Right Binder — Panko vs Almond Flour
Panko breadcrumbs give light texture; almond flour keeps recipe low carb. For gluten-free, use gluten-free panko or crushed rice crackers.
Sear First, Finish in Oven — Best Texture
Quickly sear meatballs to develop a golden crust, then finish baking at 375–400°F to cook through without drying. For air fryer: 375°F for 10–12 minutes.
Thicken the Honey Lemon Glaze Properly
Use a cornstarch slurry (1 tsp cornstarch + 2 tsp cold water) added to simmering sauce to reach glossy, clingy texture — perfect for coating meatballs.
Finish with Fresh Herbs & Texture
Garnish with chopped parsley, sesame seeds, or crushed roasted peanuts for contrast. A final squeeze of lemon brightens the glaze.
Related: White Bean Caprese Salad Recipe
Serving Suggestions — Best Sides & Uses for Honey Lemon Chicken Meatballs
These Honey Lemon Chicken Meatballs are brilliant with versatile serving options – perfect as a high-protein main meal, low-carb lunch, or crowd-pleasing party appetizer.
1. Classic Rice Bowls — Comfort Weeknight Dinner
Serve 4–5 meatballs over steamed jasmine rice or brown rice. Add quick stir-fried broccoli and carrots for an easy balanced dinner.
Need speed? Use leftover rice or microwaveable rice packets.2. Low-Carb & Keto — Zoodles or Cauliflower Rice
Swap grains for zucchini noodles (zoodles) or cauliflower rice to make a keto dinner or low-carb meal prep.
Toss zoodles with a splash of olive oil and lemon before plating to boost citrus aroma.3. Meal Prep Bowls — High Protein Lunches
Build meal-prep bowls with quinoa or farro, roasted vegetables, and 4–6 meatballs for a high-protein weekly lunch.
Pack sauce separately to keep texture fresh; reheat 60–90 seconds on medium heat.4. Party Appetizers — Skewers & Dipping Sauce
Thread meatballs on cocktail skewers, glaze with extra honey-lemon sauce, and serve with a citrus-y dipping sauce. Great for game day appetizers and party food ideas.
Pair with pickled cucumbers or a yogurt-herb dip for contrast.5. Sandwiches & Sliders — Crowd Pleasers
Make mini sliders with soft buns, arugula, and a lemon-honey drizzle.
Toast buns lightly for texture and spread a thin layer of mayo mixed with lemon zest.6. Salad Topper — Light & Fresh Meals
Add 3–4 meatballs to a bed of mixed greens, cucumber, cherry tomatoes and a lemon vinaigrette for a satisfying protein-packed salad.
Use baby spinach and a citrusy dressing to complement the honey-lemon glaze.-
Lose weight / Low-Carb
Choose: Zoodles or cauliflower rice + less honey -
Meal prep / High protein
Choose: Quinoa bowl, roasted veg, pack sauce separately -
Entertaining / Party
Choose: Skewers, sliders, extra glaze, dipping sauce
Suggested:
Creamy Coleslaw Recipe
300 Calorie Lunch Ideas
Variations You Must Try — Honey Lemon Chicken Meatballs (Flavor Boosts & Diet Swaps)
You can try the variations given here; I can promise you that you will not be disappointed.
Spicy Honey-Lemon Chicken Meatballs
Why try it: Adds heat to balance the sweet honey and bright lemon
How to modify: Add ½–1 tsp red pepper flakes or 1 tsp sriracha to the sauce; stir chili oil into the meatball mix. For extra depth, add 1 tbsp gochujang for a Korean-inspired kick.
Garlic-Butter Lemon Chicken Meatballs
Why try it: Rich and savory — perfect for foodies who love comfort food and family dinners.
How to modify: Sauté 2 tbsp butter + 3 minced garlic cloves; stir into the sauce with lemon zest. Finish with chopped parsley. Omit honey for a less sweet, buttery glaze.
Teriyaki-Honey Lemon Fusion Meatballs
Why try it: Combine sweet-salty teriyaki notes with lemon brightness for fusion bowls and rice bowls.
How to modify: Replace 1 tbsp soy with 2 tbsp teriyaki sauce; add 1 tsp toasted sesame oil, 1 tsp rice vinegar, and garnish with sesame seeds & scallions.
Weight-Watchers Friendly Version
Why try it: Perfect for those looking for a low-cost or weight-loss-friendly dinner.
How to modify: Use sugar-free honey substitute or 2 tbsp sugar-free syrup + extra lemon; swap panko for oat fiber or fat-free plain Greek yogurt as binder (reduces points). Bake instead of frying.
Keto / Low-Carb Honey-Lemon Meatballs
Why try it: If you are following a keto or low-carb diet, these meatballs are a great choice.
How to modify: Replace panko with almond flour or crushed pork rinds, and swap honey with a monk fruit + a splash of lemon concentrate (or erythritol + lemon zest) to keep net carbs low.
Air-Fryer Crunchy Honey Lemon Meatballs
Why try it: My personal favorite option is to make it in an air fryer, meaning you can make it with very little or no oil.
How to modify: Spray meatballs lightly with oil and air fry at 375°F for 10–12 minutes, flipping once. Finish by tossing in warm honey-lemon glaze.
Mediterranean Lemon-Herb Chicken Meatballs
Why try it: This recipe is ideal for people following the Mediterranean diet.
How to modify: Add chopped mint, oregano, and crumbled feta (optional). Swap honey for a light brush of honey + lemon and finish with a tzatziki-style yogurt dip on the side.
Gluten-Free Tamari + Lemon Meatballs
Why try it: This recipe is perfect for those following a gluten-free diet.
How to modify: Use gluten-free panko or almond flour and replace soy sauce with tamari. Use cornstarch or arrowroot for sauce thickening (both GF).
Vegetarian “Chickpea” Lemon-Honey Meatballs
Why try it: This is recommended for those who are vegetarians. Also, a good variation of Honey Lemon Chicken Meatballs
How to modify: Swap ground chicken for mashed chickpeas + cooked quinoa, binder: 1 egg or flax-egg; season with the same lemon & honey glaze. Use olive oil to pan-fry or bake until golden.
Suggested: Cold Summer Soup Recipes
Frequently Asked Questions For Honey Lemon Chicken Meatballs
Short answer: Yes — air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway, until the internal temp reads 165°F.
Why choose the air fryer? Faster, crisp exterior, less oil — ideal for low fat and high protein recipe searches (e.g., “air fryer chicken meatballs recipe”, “low fat chicken meatballs air fryer”).
If you want crispy edges for appetizers — pick air fryer. If you prefer uniform browning and sauce absorption — oven or skillet may be better.
Short answer: Yes — ground turkey is a one-to-one substitute and works beautifully with honey-lemon glaze.
Flavor & texture note: Turkey can be slightly drier; add 1–2 tbsp olive oil or 1 extra egg for juiciness.
Short answer: Don’t overmix, add a binder (egg + panko/almond flour), and finish with a glossy sauce to lock in moisture.
Practical steps: Mix gently, include 1 tbsp olive oil or 1 extra egg if using lean breast meat, avoid overbaking — remove at 165°F.
Short answer: Yes — simmer the sauce longer to reduce it, or use arrowroot, tapioca starch, or reduce honey by a small amount.
Options: For gluten-free: arrowroot (1:1 with cornstarch). For paleo/keto: use xanthan gum sparingly (start with 1/8 tsp).
Short answer: Yes — with swaps (use sugar-free honey substitute or less honey, use egg whites, almond flour) this becomes Weight Watchers and low-calorie friendly.
Nutrition optimization: Swap panko for almond flour, replace some honey with stevia or monk fruit for fewer carbs.
Tip Want fewer points? Reduce honey and serve over vegetables instead of rice. Want maximal flavor? Keep honey and balance with lean protein sides.
Short answer: Refrigerate in an airtight container up to 4 days; freeze cooked meatballs for up to 2 months. Reheat from frozen in oven at 350°F for 12–18 minutes or microwave until 165°F.
Meal prep workflow: Cool completely, flash-freeze on a tray, then bag for portions. Keep sauce separate for best texture when reheating.
Short answer: Serve over jasmine rice, quinoa, cauliflower rice, zucchini noodles, or as appetizer skewers — each pairs are just awesome
Short answer: Yes — use almond flour or gluten-free crumbs for grain-free; tamari or coconut aminos for gluten-free soy replacement; omit nuts for nut-free versions.
Short answer: Add chili flakes, sriracha, or fresh chilies to the sauce for heat; swap honey for maple for a deeper sweetness.
Flavor ideas: Spicy honey lemon (add 1 tsp sriracha), garlic butter lemon (add 2 tbsp butter), teriyaki-fusion (add mirin + sesame).
Related: Mediterranean Grain Bowls
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