Sticky Orange Glazed Meatballs

If you’re craving something irresistible, packed with flavor, and perfect for any occasion, these Sticky Orange Glazed Meatballs are exactly what you need. Made with lean ground chicken and a luscious, sticky orange glaze, this dish balances tangy citrus notes with a hint of sweetness and savory depth. Whether you’re serving these as an appetizer, main course, or party snack, they’re guaranteed to impress your family and guests alike. Plus, with simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe fits seamlessly into your busy lifestyle.

Top Reasons to Make Sticky Orange Glazed Meatballs

• Flavor-packed: The combination of fresh ginger, orange juice, and honey creates a perfectly balanced glaze that clings beautifully to tender meatballs.
• Lean and nutritious: Using ground chicken makes these meatballs a lighter alternative without sacrificing any juicy goodness.
• Versatile: These meatballs pair wonderfully with steamed rice, noodles, or even in a sandwich. Don’t forget to serve alongside a refreshing Asian Cucumber Salad for a complete meal.
• Quick and easy: Ready in under 40 minutes, this recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or last-minute gatherings.
• Kid-friendly: The mildly sweet and savory glaze appeals to all ages, making it a family favorite.

Ingredient Rundown

• 1 pound ground chicken: Provides a tender, lean base for the meatballs; easy to work with and absorbs flavors well.
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs: Helps bind the meatballs and keeps them moist.
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a subtle umami depth and richness.
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions: Brings freshness and a mild onion flavor.
• 1 egg: Acts as a binder to hold the meatballs together.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder & 1 teaspoon onion powder: Enhance the savory profile without overpowering the orange glaze.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt & 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Essential seasoning for balance.
• 1/2 cup orange juice: The star of the glaze, providing natural sweetness and acidity.
• 1/4 cup honey: Amplifies the glaze’s stickiness and sweet notes.
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce: Adds depth and a touch of saltiness; opt for a low-sodium variety if preferred.
• 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger: Gives the glaze a warm, zesty kick.
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch + 1 tablespoon water: Used to thicken the glaze to that perfect sticky consistency.
• Sesame seeds: A beautiful garnish adding a subtle crunch and nutty aroma.

Hardware & Gadgets

• Mixing bowls: For combining meatball ingredients and mixing the glaze separately.
• Baking sheet or non-stick skillet: Depending on your preferred cooking method—oven-baked or pan-fried.
• Whisk: To blend the glaze ingredients smoothly.
• Measuring cups and spoons: For precise ingredient amounts.
• Spatula or tongs: To gently turn meatballs without breaking them.

Method: Sticky Orange Glazed Meatballs

Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, chopped green onions, and egg. Sprinkle in garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything gently with your hands or a spoon until just combined. Be careful not to overmix to keep the meatballs tender.

Step 2: Shape the Meatballs

Scoop out about 1.5 tablespoons of the mixture and roll into uniform meatballs. Aim for about 24 meatballs to ensure even cooking and perfect bite-sized portions.

Step 3: Cook the Meatballs

Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat with a touch of oil. Add the meatballs in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for 5-6 minutes, turning occasionally until all sides are golden brown and the meatballs are cooked through. Alternatively, you can bake them at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes.

Step 4: Make the Orange Glaze

While the meatballs cook, whisk together orange juice, honey, soy sauce, and grated ginger in a small saucepan. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat. In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with water to create a slurry, then slowly whisk it into the simmering sauce. Continue cooking until the glaze thickens and becomes glossy, about 2-3 minutes.

Step 5: Coat the Meatballs

Once the meatballs are cooked, transfer them to the saucepan with the glaze. Gently toss to coat each meatball in the sticky orange sauce. Heat for another 1-2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle sesame seeds over the glazed meatballs and chopped green onions if desired. Serve hot with your favorite sides like steamed rice or try pairing with a crisp Chicken And Broccoli Stir Fry for a complete Asian-inspired meal.

Variations for Dietary Needs

• Gluten-free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and tamari instead of soy sauce.
• Lower carb: Replace breadcrumbs with almond flour or crushed pork rinds.
• Spicy twist: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of Sriracha to the glaze for heat.
• Vegetarian option: Swap ground chicken for mashed chickpeas or firm tofu and adjust cooking times accordingly.

Mistakes Even Pros Make

• Overmixing the meatball mixture: This can result in dense, tough meatballs. Mix just until combined.
• Skipping the glaze thickening step: Without thickening, the sauce will be runny and won’t cling well.
• Cooking meatballs on too high heat: This causes uneven cooking and burnt outsides with raw centers.
• Not letting meatballs rest after cooking: Resting helps juices redistribute, keeping them juicy.

Shelf Life & Storage

Once cooled, store leftover Sticky Orange Glazed Meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze cooked meatballs without the glaze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat with fresh glaze for best results.

Handy Q&A

Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs up to a day in advance and refrigerate them raw. Just shape them and keep covered until ready to cook. The glaze can also be made ahead and reheated when needed.

What can I serve with these meatballs?

These meatballs pair well with steamed jasmine rice, quinoa, or noodles. For a lighter side, try a crisp Asian Cucumber Salad or sautéed vegetables.

Can I bake the meatballs instead of pan-frying?

Yes! Baking is a great option for less hands-on time. Arrange meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through for even browning.

How do I get the glaze nice and sticky?

The key is the cornstarch slurry, which thickens the glaze as it simmers. Make sure to whisk it in slowly and cook the sauce until it reaches a glossy, syrupy consistency before coating the meatballs.

Reader Favorites

• Chicken And Broccoli Stir Fry – A quick and flavorful weeknight dinner.
• Asian Cucumber Salad – Crisp, refreshing, and perfect alongside sticky meatballs.

Before You Go

Don’t forget to experiment with the glaze by adjusting sweetness or tanginess to suit your taste buds. These Sticky Orange Glazed Meatballs are a fantastic canvas for your culinary creativity. Whether paired with rice, noodles, or a fresh salad, they’re guaranteed to become a new favorite in your recipe box. Happy cooking!

These meatballs bring a delightful burst of flavor and texture that’s both comforting and exciting. The sticky glaze makes every bite irresistible, perfect for sharing with loved ones or impressing guests at your next gathering. So grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and dive into this deliciously sticky adventure!

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