Irresistible Sticky Ginger Sesame Chicken Meatballs Recipe

Name: Sticky Ginger Sesame Chicken Meatballs
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 1 lb ground chicken; 1 tbsp fresh ginger, minced; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 2 green onions, chopped; 1/2 cup plain breadcrumbs; 2 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce; 2 tbsp sesame oil; 2 tbsp honey; For the Sauce: 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce; 2 tbsp honey; 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water; 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds

Recipe By:

Melisa Egan

Posted:

January 4, 2026

Updated:

January 4, 2026

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Sticky ginger sesame chicken meatballs are the kind of dish that dances on your taste buds, tantalizing with every bite. Imagine tender meatballs coated in a luscious, sweet, and savory glaze that makes you feel like you’ve just wandered into a cozy Asian bistro. The aroma of ginger mingling with sesame wafts through the kitchen, promising warmth and comfort.

This recipe isn’t just about food; it’s about nostalgia too. I remember the first time I made these meatballs for a gathering—my friends couldn’t get enough. They were devoured faster than I could say “sticky ginger sesame chicken meatballs.” Perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests at a dinner party, this dish is a true crowd-pleaser.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Sticky ginger sesame chicken meatballs are incredibly easy to prepare, making them perfect for busy nights.
The flavor profile features an irresistible mix of sweetness and spice that pleases every palate.
Their visual appeal will have everyone reaching for seconds, thanks to their shiny glaze and vibrant colors.
Versatile enough for appetizers or main dishes, you can easily adapt this recipe to your mood or occasion.

I still chuckle when remembering how my friend Kevin tried to eat these meatballs while balancing a plate and his drink. Let’s just say it was a messy but hilarious moment we still laugh about today.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Ground Chicken: Use lean ground chicken for moist yet healthy meatballs without excess grease.
Fresh Ginger: Opt for fresh ginger over powdered; it adds a zingy kick that elevates the flavor.
Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic is essential; choose firm cloves for the best aromatic punch.
Sesame Oil: A little goes a long way in adding depth and richness to the dish.
Honey: Choose raw honey if possible; it brings natural sweetness and health benefits.
Soy Sauce: Low-sodium soy sauce is ideal to keep saltiness in check while enhancing flavor.
Green Onions: These add freshness and color; don’t skip them!
Breadcrumbs: Use plain breadcrumbs to bind the meatballs together perfectly without overpowering other flavors.

For the Sauce:

Sesame Seeds: Toasted sesame seeds add crunch and nutty notes; don’t skip toasting them!
Cornstarch: This thickener helps achieve that glossy sauce consistency everyone loves.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Recipe preparation for sticky ginger sesame chicken meatballs

How to Make sticky ginger sesame chicken meatballs

Prepare your kitchen by preheating the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup later.

Create the Meatball Mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, minced ginger, minced garlic, green onions, breadcrumbs, soy sauce, sesame oil, and honey. Mix until combined but do not overwork it.

Forming Meatballs: Wet your hands slightly to prevent sticking and shape small balls—about 1 inch in diameter—placing each on your prepared baking sheet as you go.

Bake Until Golden Brown: Pop those beauties into the oven and bake for approximately 20-25 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.

Prepare the Glaze : While they bake, whisk together soy sauce, honey, cornstarch mixed with water, and sesame oil in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir constantly until thickened.

Add Finishing Touches : Once baked, remove your meatballs from the oven and toss them gently in the warm glaze until well-coated. Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top before serving.

Enjoy these sticky ginger sesame chicken meatballs hot out of the oven or let them cool slightly—they’re delightful either way!

Content

Tip: Use fresh ginger for a zingy flavor boost. Fresh ginger adds a vibrant kick that dried ginger simply can’t match. I learned this the hard way when my meatballs tasted like cardboard.

Tip: Don’t skip the chilling step before cooking. Chilling the meatballs helps them hold their shape and prevents them from falling apart in the pan. Trust me, nobody wants a meatball mush!

Tip: Experiment with dipping sauces for extra flavor. A tangy sauce can elevate these meatballs to gourmet status. I once served them with a spicy sriracha dip and my friends couldn’t stop raving about it.

You Must Know

Sticky ginger sesame chicken meatballs are not only delicious but also versatile enough for various dishes.
You can serve them over rice, as part of a salad, or even as a unique appetizer at your next gathering.
The aroma is simply irresistible!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by mixing the ingredients and forming the meatballs, then chill them for 30 minutes before cooking. This ensures they retain their shape while cooking and develop better flavors.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap ground chicken with turkey or add finely chopped vegetables for extra nutrition. You can also play with spices, adding some chili flakes if you fancy a little heat.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover sticky ginger sesame chicken meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through, keeping them juicy and tasty.

Chef's Helpful Tips

For perfectly round meatballs, use an ice cream scoop to ensure uniform size every time.
Add breadcrumbs gradually until you achieve your desired consistency without making them too dry.
Always taste your mixture before cooking to adjust seasoning as needed.

I still remember the first time I made these sticky ginger sesame chicken meatballs for a family gathering; they disappeared faster than I could say “seconds.” It’s moments like these that keep me experimenting in the kitchen!

FAQ

What can I serve with sticky ginger sesame chicken meatballs?

These meatballs pair wonderfully with rice, noodles, or fresh salads for a complete meal.

Can I freeze leftover sticky ginger sesame chicken meatballs?

Yes, you can freeze cooked meatballs in an airtight container for up to three months.

How do I make sticky ginger sesame chicken meatballs gluten-free?

Substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives like almond flour or gluten-free oats.

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