There’s something irresistible about bite-sized food—especially when it’s juicy, saucy, and packed with flavor. And if you love the smoky-sweet tang of BBQ sauce paired with tender, savory chicken, then these BBQ chicken meatballs are about to become your new obsession. Perfect for game-day spreads, party appetizers, or even as a hearty main dish, these meatballs are versatile, crowd-pleasing, and downright delicious.
Imagine tender, herb-infused chicken meatballs glazed in sticky, caramelized BBQ sauce, with just the right balance of sweet and spicy. Or picture them skewered with crispy bacon, baked into sliders with melty cheese, or even tossed in a tangy honey-mustard BBQ sauce for an extra kick. Whether you’re feeding a hungry crowd or just looking for a fun twist on weeknight dinners, these 13 BBQ chicken meatball recipes cover all the bases—classic, spicy, smoky, and even some unexpected global flavors.
From easy slow-cooker versions for effortless entertaining to crispy oven-baked bites with a perfect char, we’ve got recipes for every occasion. Plus, we’ll share pro tips on keeping them moist, the best sauces for dipping, and creative ways to serve them (think: over creamy polenta, in lettuce wraps, or as a next-level pizza topping). So grab your apron, fire up the oven (or grill!), and get ready to make meatballs that’ll have everyone reaching for seconds—and begging for the recipe.
Zesty BBQ Chicken Meatballs with Pineapple
These zesty BBQ chicken meatballs are a delicious blend of savory chicken and sweet pineapple, making them a perfect bite-sized treat for any gathering. The sticky BBQ glaze brings everything together, giving a delightful tang that everyone will love. Plus, they are super easy to whip up—perfect for both appetizers and main dishes!
Pair these meatballs with a cooling dip or serve them straight from the oven. They’re sure to be a hit whether you’re hosting a party or just looking for a tasty dinner option.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 1 cup pineapple chunks, fresh or canned
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large bowl, mix together the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, parsley, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
- Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20 minutes, or until cooked through.
- While the meatballs are baking, combine the BBQ sauce and pineapple chunks in a saucepan over medium heat. Cook until warmed through.
- Once the meatballs are done, toss them in the BBQ sauce and pineapple mixture before serving. Enjoy!
Chipotle BBQ Chicken Meatballs
Chipotle BBQ chicken meatballs are a delicious twist on the classic appetizer. With a smoky, spicy flavor from the chipotle sauce, these meatballs are sure to please your taste buds. They are simple to make, and perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in.
The combination of tender chicken and zesty barbecue sauce makes these meatballs irresistible. Serve them with extra sauce for dipping, and watch them disappear!
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup chipotle BBQ sauce
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, cilantro, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
- Form the mixture into meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake the meatballs for 20 minutes or until they are cooked through and golden brown.
- In the last few minutes of baking, brush the meatballs with chipotle BBQ sauce. Serve hot with extra sauce for dipping.
Bacon-Wrapped BBQ Chicken Meatballs
Bacon-wrapped BBQ chicken meatballs are a delightful treat that combines tender chicken with the smoky flavor of bacon. These bite-sized goodies are not only tasty but also super easy to whip up, making them perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in. The sweet and tangy BBQ sauce adds a burst of flavor that complements the savory bacon, creating a dish everyone will love.
These meatballs are an excellent choice whether you’re serving them as appetizers or as a main dish. They’re sure to impress your guests and leave them asking for more. The combination of textures—crispy bacon and juicy chicken—makes for a mouthwatering experience that’s hard to resist.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 8-10 slices of bacon
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
- Wrap each meatball with a slice of bacon, securing it with a toothpick if necessary. Place the bacon-wrapped meatballs on the prepared baking sheet.
- Brush the meatballs with BBQ sauce, reserving some for later.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the bacon is crispy and the chicken is cooked through.
- Remove from the oven and brush with additional BBQ sauce. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Honey Garlic BBQ Chicken Meatballs
Honey Garlic BBQ Chicken Meatballs are a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors, making them perfect for any gathering. These meatballs are juicy and tender, coated in a sticky honey-garlic BBQ sauce that adds just the right amount of sweetness and richness.
This recipe is simple to make, perfect for both an appetizer or a main dish. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you’ll have a crowd-pleaser on your hands in no time!
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, mix together ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, onion powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake the meatballs for 15-20 minutes, or until they are cooked through and golden brown.
- While the meatballs are baking, prepare the sauce by combining honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and cornstarch in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir until the sauce thickens.
- Once the meatballs are done, toss them in the honey garlic BBQ sauce until well coated. Serve warm, garnished with sesame seeds.
Buffalo BBQ Chicken Meatballs
Buffalo BBQ Chicken Meatballs are a fantastic blend of spicy and savory flavors, making them a perfect choice for any gathering. These bite-sized treats are easy to whip up and will have everyone coming back for more!
The combination of juicy chicken, zesty buffalo sauce, and tangy BBQ sauce creates a delicious balance that pairs wonderfully with a cool dipping sauce like ranch or blue cheese. Serve them as appetizers or make them the star of your meal!
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
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup buffalo sauce
- 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, green onions, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are combined.
- Form the mixture into meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the meatballs are golden brown and cooked through.
- While the meatballs are baking, combine buffalo sauce and BBQ sauce in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir until heated through.
- Once the meatballs are done, toss them in the sauce until fully coated. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving. Enjoy!
Teriyaki BBQ Chicken Meatballs
Teriyaki BBQ chicken meatballs combine juicy chicken with a sweet and tangy teriyaki glaze, creating a perfect balance of flavors that’s sure to please anyone. They are not only simple to make but also versatile enough to be served as appetizers or a main course, making them a fantastic choice for any gathering or dinner.
The meatballs are tender and flavorful, and when paired with colorful veggies, they become an eye-catching dish. Whether you’re grilling them or baking them in the oven, these meatballs are quick to prepare, making them a go-to option for busy weeknights or special occasions.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
- 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
- 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Skewers (if grilling)
- Bell peppers and pineapple chunks, for skewering
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) or prepare a grill.
- In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, green onions, egg, garlic powder, ginger, 2 tablespoons of teriyaki sauce, and salt and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Form the mixture into meatballs, about 1 inch in size, and place them on a baking sheet or skewers if grilling.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or grill on medium heat, turning occasionally, until cooked through and golden brown.
- In a small bowl, mix the remaining teriyaki sauce with BBQ sauce. Brush over the meatballs during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
- Serve hot, skewered with bell peppers and pineapple for a colorful presentation.
Lemon Herb BBQ Chicken Meatballs
Lemon Herb BBQ Chicken Meatballs are a delightful twist on traditional meatballs, bringing a fresh and zesty flavor that everyone will love. They’re juicy, tender, and infused with the bright taste of lemon and aromatic herbs, making them perfect for appetizers or as a main dish.
These meatballs are simple to whip up, requiring just a few ingredients and minimal preparation time. Whether you’re hosting a party or looking for a quick family dinner, these flavorful bites are sure to impress!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup BBQ sauce (for serving)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, parsley, thyme, lemon zest, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and golden brown.
- Serve warm with BBQ sauce drizzled on top or on the side for dipping.
Sweet and Spicy BBQ Chicken Meatballs
These Sweet and Spicy BBQ Chicken Meatballs are a delightful fusion of flavors that pack a punch! The combination of tangy barbecue sauce and a hint of sweetness creates a perfect balance, making each bite irresistibly tasty. Not only are they full of flavor, but they are also easy to prepare, making them a fantastic choice for any occasion.
Perfect as appetizers at a gathering or served as a main dish, these meatballs are a hit with both kids and adults. With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll find yourself whipping them up in no time. Get ready to impress your guests or family with this delicious recipe!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons hot sauce (optional)
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, green onions, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through and golden brown.
- Meanwhile, in a small saucepan, combine the BBQ sauce, honey, and hot sauce (if using). Heat over low until warmed.
- Once the meatballs are done baking, toss them in the BBQ sauce mixture until well coated. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
Mediterranean BBQ Chicken Meatballs
Mediterranean BBQ chicken meatballs offer a delightful twist on a classic dish. Infused with vibrant herbs and spices, these meatballs are both juicy and full of flavor. They’re simple to prepare, making them perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in.
The combination of garlic, oregano, and a hint of lemon brings the taste of the Mediterranean right to your plate. Pair them with a creamy tzatziki sauce, and you have a dish that’s sure to impress!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic, oregano, paprika, salt, pepper, lemon juice, and parsley. Mix until well combined.
- Form the mixture into bite-sized meatballs and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and golden brown.
- Brush the meatballs with BBQ sauce and return to the oven for an additional 5 minutes to caramelize the sauce.
- Serve warm with tzatziki sauce and enjoy!
Stuffed BBQ Chicken Meatballs with Cheese
Stuffed BBQ chicken meatballs are a fun and tasty treat that can be enjoyed as appetizers or a main dish. The combination of tender chicken, melty cheese, and a tangy barbecue sauce creates a delightful explosion of flavors in every bite. Plus, they are quite simple to make, making them perfect for any gathering or family dinner.
These meatballs are not just delicious; they’re also customizable! You can choose your favorite cheese to stuff inside or even add some spices for an extra kick. Whether you serve them warm with extra barbecue sauce or alongside a fresh salad, these meatballs are sure to impress everyone at the table.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Take a small amount of the chicken mixture and flatten it in your hand. Place a small amount of shredded cheese in the center and wrap the chicken around the cheese to form a ball. Repeat until all the mixture is used.
- Place the meatballs on the prepared baking sheet and brush or drizzle with BBQ sauce.
- Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and golden brown. Serve warm with additional BBQ sauce for dipping.
BBQ Chicken Meatballs in a Sweet Chili Sauce
These BBQ chicken meatballs in a sweet chili sauce are the perfect blend of savory and sweet. They are incredibly easy to whip up, making them an ideal choice for gatherings or a cozy night in. The meatballs are tender and flavorful, coated in a sticky sauce that adds a delightful kick without being too spicy.
Whether served as an appetizer or a main dish, these meatballs are sure to impress. They pair wonderfully with fresh veggies or rice, and are topped with green onions for an extra burst of flavor. Enjoy the simple pleasure of homemade meatballs!
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 1/2 cup sweet chili sauce
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, mix together the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, egg, garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake the meatballs for 20 minutes, or until they are cooked through and golden brown.
- While the meatballs are baking, combine the BBQ sauce and sweet chili sauce in a saucepan and heat over medium heat until warm.
- Once the meatballs are done, remove them from the oven and toss them in the warm sauce until well coated.
- Serve the meatballs warm, garnished with sliced green onions. Enjoy your delicious creation!
BBQ Chicken Meatballs with Cilantro Lime Rice
BBQ chicken meatballs are a fantastic blend of sweet and savory flavors, making them a hit whether served as appetizers or a main dish. The juicy, tender meatballs coated in a tangy barbecue sauce pair perfectly with a side of fluffy cilantro lime rice, adding a refreshing touch that complements the richness of the meatballs.
This recipe is simple to follow and perfect for both weeknight dinners and casual gatherings. With just a few ingredients and steps, you can whip up a delicious meal that everyone will love!
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Extra lime wedges for serving
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, cilantro, egg, BBQ sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Form the mixture into meatballs and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.
- While the meatballs are baking, prepare the rice. In a saucepan, bring chicken broth to a boil. Stir in the rice, cover, and reduce heat to low. Cook for about 15 minutes or until the rice is tender.
- Once the rice is cooked, fluff it with a fork and stir in lime juice and olive oil.
- Serve the BBQ chicken meatballs over the cilantro lime rice, garnished with additional cilantro and lime wedges.
BBQ Chicken Meatball Sliders
BBQ chicken meatball sliders are a delicious twist on a classic dish. Tender chicken meatballs coated in a tangy BBQ sauce are nestled between soft slider buns, making them perfect for any gathering. These sliders are bursting with flavor and are surprisingly easy to whip up, making them a favorite for both appetizers and main courses.
The combination of savory meatballs and sweet, smoky BBQ sauce is sure to please any crowd. Topped with crunchy coleslaw or pickles, these sliders offer a delightful mix of textures. Whether you’re hosting a party or just enjoying a cozy night in, these BBQ chicken meatball sliders are a must-try!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- Slider buns
- Coleslaw or pickles for topping
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake the meatballs for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through and golden brown.
- In a saucepan, heat the BBQ sauce over medium heat. Once the meatballs are done, add them to the sauce and toss to coat.
- To assemble the sliders, place a BBQ chicken meatball on each slider bun. Top with coleslaw or pickles. Serve warm and enjoy!
Final Thoughts
BBQ chicken meatballs are the ultimate crowd-pleaser—equally at home on a fancy charcuterie board as they are piled high on a weeknight dinner plate. With these 13 recipes, you’ll never run out of ways to enjoy them, whether you’re hosting a party, meal-prepping for easy lunches, or just craving something saucy and satisfying. So pick your favorite flavor combo, whip up a batch, and get ready to see just how quickly they disappear. One bite, and these meatballs will earn a permanent spot in your recipe rotation!