Sticky Orange Chicken Meatballs

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Quick Dinner

Sticky Orange Chicken Meatballs

348 Reviews

★★★★★ 4.5/5

Intro by Chef AVA (AI Chef):
These Sticky Orange Chicken Meatballs are sweet, tangy, and savory with a glossy glaze that clings to every bite. Perfectly juicy and packed with bright citrus flavor, this quick dinner is a total crowd-pleaser—whether you serve it over rice, noodles, or a crisp veggie slaw!

Nutrition Facts

Calories298 ; fat 14g; Carbohydrates 18g; Protein 23g. Fiber: 1g

Descriptions

Juicy, Sticky, & Packed with Citrus Flavor!
These baked chicken meatballs are tender, juicy, and coated in a sticky orange sauce that brings sweet heat and a zesty kick. Made with ground chicken and baked to golden perfection, they’re quick, protein-packed, and so satisfying. Serve them over rice, noodles, or lettuce wraps — they shine however you plate them!

Directions

Step 1

Make the Meatballs:

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).

In a bowl, mix:

1 lb ground chicken
1 egg
⅓ cup breadcrumbs
1 green onion, chopped
1 garlic clove, minced
1 tsp soy sauce
Salt & pepper to taste
Shape the dough into 1½-inch balls and arrange them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Bake for 18–20 minutes, flipping halfway.

Step 2

Make the Orange Sauce:

In a saucepan, combine:

½ cup orange juice (fresh is best!)
2 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp rice vinegar
1 tbsp honey
1 tbsp brown sugar
1 tsp grated ginger
1 garlic clove, minced
1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tsp water

Simmer over medium heat until thickened and glossy (5–6 minutes).

Step 3

Toss & Serve:

Coat the baked meatballs generously by tossing them in the orange sauce until they’re fully covered.
Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions.

Pro Tips for Juicy Meatballs

✔️ Don’t overmix your meat mixture — gentle hands = tender texture
✔️ Use parchment paper to avoid sticking and get even browning
✔️ For extra flavor, add a dash of orange zest to the sauce
✔️ Double the sauce — you’ll want it on everything

Creative Variations

🌶️ Spicy Kick – Add red pepper flakes or sriracha to the sauce
🥬 Low Carb – Serve in lettuce cups for a light, crisp bite
🍍 Tropical Vibe – Swap orange juice for pineapple juice
🍚 Meal Prep Win – Pack with jasmine rice & steamed broccoli for easy lunches

FAQs

Q: Can I use turkey instead of chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey works perfectly here.

Q: Can I make these ahead?
Yes, make meatballs and sauce separately. Reheat gently before serving.

Q: What’s the best side dish?
Steamed jasmine rice, quinoa, stir-fried veggies, or cauliflower rice are all great.

Q: Can I freeze them?
Yes! Freeze cooked meatballs and sauce separately. Thaw and reheat before serving.

Advice for Gifting

Pack these sticky orange meatballs in a divided meal prep container with rice and steamed snap peas. Add a little container of extra sauce for dipping — perfect for a delicious and thoughtful homemade lunch!

Fun Ways to Serve

🍚 In a rice bowl with veggies and herbs
🥢 As skewers for an appetizer platter
🥪 In a sandwich or wrap with slaw
🌮 In lettuce cups for a fresh twist

Final Thoughts

These Sticky Orange Chicken Meatballs bring together the comfort of home-cooked meatballs and the bold flavor of takeout-style orange glaze — fast, easy, and crowd-pleasing every time.

📸 Tried it? Tag your photos with #StickyMeatballMagic
👉 What’s your favorite sweet-savory combo? Share it below!