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Homemade Sesame Ginger Chicken Meatballs with Rice photo

Sesame Ginger Chicken Meatballs with Rice

This Sesame Ginger Chicken Meatballs with Rice is bursting with bold Asian flavors and super easy to make! Juicy meatballs paired with fluffy rice make it a weeknight winner.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Asian

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound ground chicken
  • 2 tablespoons sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger grated
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1/4 cup green onions chopped
  • 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 egg beaten
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 cups cooked rice
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil for cooking meatballs
  • cilantro chopped, for garnish

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • Grater
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Measuring spoons and cups
  • Non-stick skillet or frying pan
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Plate lined with paper towels
  • Pot or rice cooker

Method
 

  1. Grate the fresh ginger and mince the garlic cloves. Chop the green onions and cilantro finely. Prepare rice according to package instructions if not already cooked.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, grated ginger, minced garlic, chopped green onions, breadcrumbs, beaten egg, soy sauce, honey, sesame seeds, salt, and pepper. Drizzle in 2 tablespoons sesame oil. Mix until just combined.
  3. Form the meat mixture into approximately 1-inch meatballs using hands or a small scoop. Place on a plate or tray.
  4. Heat 1 tablespoon sesame oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Cook meatballs in batches for 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature 165°F/74°C). Drain on paper towels.
  5. Spoon cooked rice onto plates. Top with warm meatballs. Garnish with chopped cilantro and extra sesame seeds if desired. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • Mix meatball ingredients just until combined to keep meatballs tender and avoid toughness.
  • Use medium heat when cooking meatballs to prevent burning outside while ensuring inside is cooked.
  • Drain cooked meatballs on paper towels to remove excess oil for a cleaner taste.
  • You can bake meatballs at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes as a healthier alternative to frying.
  • Make meatball mixture ahead and refrigerate, then shape and cook when ready for convenience.