Go Back
Homemade Sticky Orange Sesame Chicken Meatballs photo
Print Recipe Save it for later

Sticky Orange Sesame Chicken Meatballs

These Sticky Orange Sesame Chicken Meatballs are tender, juicy, and coated in a luscious, sticky orange glaze—perfect for quick dinners or special occasions!
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time15 minutes
Total Time30 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American, Asian
Keyword: Chicken, Easy, Meatballs, Orange, Quick, Sesame, Sticky
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground chicken
  • 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup green onions chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger minced
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 cup orange juice freshly squeezed preferred
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce use low sodium if preferred
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds toasted for garnish
  • fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

Prepare the Meatballs

  • In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, chopped green onions, minced garlic, minced ginger, egg, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently until evenly incorporated. Avoid overmixing.
  • Using your hands, shape the mixture into small, bite-sized meatballs (1 to 1.5 inches diameter). Place on a plate or tray.

Cook the Meatballs and Sauce

  • Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a little sesame oil. When shimmering, add meatballs in a single layer without overcrowding. Cook 5-6 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove meatballs and set aside.
  • In the same skillet, stir together orange juice, honey, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Simmer over medium heat until thick and syrupy, about 4-5 minutes.
  • Return meatballs to skillet, tossing gently to coat in sauce. Cook 2-3 more minutes to meld flavors and thicken glaze.
  • Transfer meatballs to serving platter. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and fresh cilantro. Serve immediately with steamed rice or vegetables.

Equipment

  • Mixing Bowl
  • Large Skillet
  • Non-stick pan
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Knife
  • Cutting Board
  • Serving platter or dish

Notes

  • Use whole wheat or gluten-free breadcrumbs for added fiber and dietary needs.
  • Swap honey with pure maple syrup for a different natural sweetness profile.
  • Choose low-sodium soy sauce to reduce salt intake without losing flavor.
  • Store cooked meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
  • Simmer sauce longer or add cornstarch slurry for an extra sticky glaze.