Introduction
Take the classic sweet and sour dish to the next level with our Easy Sweet and Sour Chicken Bola Bola! This fun twist replaces traditional chicken chunks with tender, golden chicken meatballs (“bola bola”) that are perfectly coated in a tangy-sweet sauce. The meatball format makes this dish especially appealing to children while maintaining all the beloved flavors of the original.
The concept of “bola bola” (meaning “ball ball” in Filipino) adds an element of playfulness to this traditional dish while improving the texture and presentation. The meatballs hold together better than chicken chunks in the sauce and provide a more uniform cooking experience.
This crowd-pleasing recipe balances the sweet, sour, and savory elements that make sweet and sour dishes so irresistible. The combination of tender chicken meatballs with colorful vegetables in that signature glossy sauce creates a visually appealing and delicious meal.
Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or special occasions, these chicken meatballs are easier to make than you might think. The recipe is forgiving and allows for customization based on your family’s preferences.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Bola Bola:
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons cooking oil (for frying)
- 1/4 cup flour (for dusting)
For the Sweet and Sour Sauce:
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 3 tablespoons white vinegar
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (slurry)
For the Stir-fry:
- 1 bell pepper (red, yellow, or green), cut into chunks
- 1 medium onion, cut into chunks
- 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
- 2 tablespoons cooking oil
Equipment
- Medium mixing bowl
- Frying pan
- Large wok or skillet
- Small bowl for sauce
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Small bowl for cornstarch slurry
- Plate lined with paper towels
Step-by-Step Instructions
Tips
To prevent meatballs from falling apart, don’t overmix the ground chicken mixture; gentle mixing is key to tender meatballs.
Achieve the right sauce consistency by adding the cornstarch slurry gradually until you reach the desired thickness.
Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken meatballs reach an internal temperature of 165°F before serving.
If using fresh pineapple, choose one that’s ripe but still firm to maintain its shape during cooking.
For crispier meatballs, you can finish them in a preheated 350°F oven for 5-10 minutes after initial frying.
Serving Suggestion
Serve the Sweet and Sour Chicken Bola Bola immediately while the meatballs are still warm and the sauce is glossy and appetizing.
Pair with steamed jasmine rice to balance the sweet-sour flavors of the sauce and make the meal more filling.
Consider serving with a simple cucumber salad to provide a fresh, cooling contrast to the rich sauce.
For a complete meal, add a side of stir-fried vegetables or a simple soup to complement the main dish.
This dish works well for entertaining as it can be prepared in advance and reheated before serving, maintaining its appeal.
The bright, colorful presentation makes this dish perfect for special occasions and family gatherings.
Nutritional Information
This recipe provides protein from the ground chicken, essential for muscle health and development. The dish also contains vitamins and minerals from the vegetables and fruits.
Pineapple contains bromelain, an enzyme that may have anti-inflammatory properties. The bell peppers and onions add vitamin C and antioxidants.
The dish is relatively high in sugar due to the sweet and sour sauce, so portion control is important for a balanced diet. The ground chicken is leaner than some alternatives, making this a healthier take on sweet and sour dishes.
Variations
Substitute ground turkey for a leaner alternative to chicken while maintaining similar flavor and texture.
Add other vegetables like water chestnuts or baby corn for additional texture and flavor.
Try different fruits such as mango or lychee instead of pineapple for a unique twist on the traditional recipe.
For a spicier version, add chopped red chili or a dash of hot sauce to the sweet and sour sauce.
Make it into an appetizer by forming smaller meatballs and serving with toothpicks.
Cooking Tips & Troubleshooting
Problem: Meatballs fall apart during cooking – Solution: Add a little more breadcrumbs or an extra egg to bind the mixture better.
Problem: Sauce is too thin – Solution: Add more cornstarch slurry gradually until desired thickness is reached.
Problem: Sauce is too thick – Solution: Add a small amount of water or pineapple juice to thin it out.
Always use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken meatballs reach 165°F for safe consumption.
Don’t overcrowd the pan when frying meatballs, as this can lower the temperature and result in soggy meatballs.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Sweet and Sour Chicken Bola Bola in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors often intensify overnight.
To reheat, warm over medium-low heat, adding a small amount of water if the sauce has thickened too much during storage.
Freeze the cooked meatballs separately from the sauce for up to 2 months, then combine with fresh sauce when reheating.
Reheated portions can be served over rice or in pasta dishes for a different take on the original recipe.
Cultural Significance
Chicken Bola Bola represents the Filipino innovation in adapting international dishes to local tastes and preferences. The concept of making meatballs appeals to Filipino appreciation for varied textures in food.
The sweet and sour combination is popular in Filipino-Chinese cuisine, which has become an integral part of Philippine food culture. This recipe combines that tradition with local preferences for meatballs.
The dish is often prepared for special occasions, particularly when entertaining children, as the meatball format makes it fun and appealing for all ages.
This recipe demonstrates how Filipino cooks adapt and put their own spin on traditional dishes while maintaining their core appeal and flavors.
