Name: Sweet & Spicy Sesame Chicken Meatballs with Rice Bowls
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: For the Meatballs:; 1 pound ground chicken; 1/4 cup breadcrumbs; 1 egg; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 2 tablespoons honey; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon minced ginger; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes; For the Sauce:; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 2 tablespoons honey; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 1 tablespoon rice vinegar; 1 teaspoon cornstarch (mixed with 1 tablespoon water); Sesame seeds for garnish; Chopped green onions for garnish; For Serving:; Cooked rice (white or brown); Steamed vegetables (optional)

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Sweet & Spicy Sesame Chicken Meatballs with Rice Bowls are a delightful blend of flavors and textures that make for a satisfying meal. These tender chicken meatballs are coated in a sweet and spicy sesame sauce, served over a bed of fluffy rice, and topped with fresh garnishes. This dish is perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or impressing guests at your next gathering. The combination of savory, sweet, and spicy elements creates a harmonious dish that is sure to please everyone at the table.

Ingredients List

To prepare Sweet & Spicy Sesame Chicken Meatballs with Rice Bowls, you will need the following ingredients:

For the Meatballs:

1 pound ground chicken
1/4 cup breadcrumbs
1 egg
2 tablespoons soy sauce
2 tablespoons honey
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon minced ginger
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes

For the Sauce:

1/4 cup soy sauce
2 tablespoons honey
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 teaspoon cornstarch (mixed with 1 tablespoon water)
Sesame seeds for garnish
Chopped green onions for garnish

For Serving:

Cooked rice (white or brown)
Steamed vegetables (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2: Make the Meatballs

In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, egg, soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, garlic powder, minced ginger, and red pepper flakes. Mix until well combined. Form the mixture into meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on the prepared baking sheet.

Step 3: Bake the Meatballs

Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are cooked through and golden brown.

Step 4: Prepare the Sauce

While the meatballs are baking, prepare the sauce. In a small saucepan, combine the soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, rice vinegar, and cornstarch mixture. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy, about 3-5 minutes.

Step 5: Toss the Meatballs

Once the meatballs are done baking, remove them from the oven and transfer them to a large bowl. Pour the sauce over the meatballs and gently toss to coat.

Step 6: Serve

Serve the sweet and spicy sesame chicken meatballs over a bed of cooked rice. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions. Add steamed vegetables on the side if desired.

Nutritional Information

Sweet & Spicy Sesame Chicken Meatballs with Rice Bowls are not only delicious but also nutritious. Here’s a general breakdown per serving (approximately 1/4 of the recipe):

Calories: 450
Fat: 15g
Carbohydrates: 50g
Protein: 30g
Sugar: 8g

Nutritional Insights:

Protein-Rich: Ground chicken provides a hearty source of protein, making this dish filling and satisfying.
Balanced Meal: The combination of meatballs, rice, and optional vegetables creates a well-rounded meal.

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

If you’re looking to lighten up this dish, consider these modifications:

Lean Protein: Use ground turkey or lean ground beef instead of chicken.
Whole Grain Rice: Substitute white rice with brown rice or quinoa for added fiber.
Reduced Sugar: Cut back on honey or use a sugar substitute to lower the sweetness.

Serving Suggestions

Sweet & Spicy Sesame Chicken Meatballs with Rice Bowls can be enjoyed in various ways:

As a Meal Prep Option: Make a large batch and portion it out for quick lunches throughout the week.
With Noodles: Serve the meatballs over cooked noodles for a different twist.
In Lettuce Wraps: Use lettuce leaves to create fresh wraps filled with meatballs and rice.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Sweet & Spicy Sesame Chicken Meatballs, keep these common pitfalls in mind:

Overmixing the Meatball Mixture: Mix just until combined to keep the meatballs tender.
Not Checking Doneness: Ensure the meatballs reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safety.
Skipping the Sauce: The sauce is what makes this dish special, so don’t skip it!

Storing Tips for the Recipe

To keep your Sweet & Spicy Sesame Chicken Meatballs fresh, follow these storage tips:

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: You can freeze the cooked meatballs in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Sweet & Spicy Sesame Chicken Meatballs with Rice Bowls are a flavorful and easy-to-make dish that is perfect for any occasion. With their delightful combination of sweet and spicy flavors, these meatballs are sure to become a family favorite. We encourage you to try this recipe and share your thoughts in the comments below. Don’t forget to subscribe for more delicious updates!

FAQs

Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the meatballs in advance and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake them.

Can I use a different type of sauce?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different sauces, such as teriyaki or sweet chili sauce, for a unique twist.

What can I serve with these meatballs?

They pair well with steamed vegetables, a side salad, or even as an appetizer with toothpicks.