Craving a flavorful and easy weeknight dinner? Look no further than these mouthwatering sesame chicken meatball bowls! Tender chicken meatballs, glazed in a sweet and savory sesame sauce, served over fluffy rice with crisp green beans – this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It’s a complete meal in a bowl, packed with protein, veggies, and incredible flavor. Remember those takeout nights where you debated between chicken and meatballs? Now you can have both, perfectly balanced in a single, satisfying dish!

This recipe isn’t just about convenience; it’s about creating a delicious and healthy meal that your family will love. The combination of ground chicken, flavorful seasonings, and a homemade sesame glaze elevates these meatballs beyond the ordinary. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen newbie, you’ll find this recipe easy to follow and incredibly rewarding. Ready to ditch the takeout and embrace a delicious, home-cooked meal? Let’s get started!

Gather Your Ingredients for Sesame Chicken Meatball Perfection

Before you begin, let’s make sure you have everything you need. Here’s a detailed list of ingredients for your sesame chicken meatball bowls. Don’t worry if you need to make a few substitutions; I’ve included some suggestions to accommodate different dietary needs and preferences.

1 pound ground chicken: The star of our show! Ground chicken is lean and readily absorbs flavors, making it perfect for meatballs.
1/2 cup cooked rice, divided: Cooked rice acts as a binder in the meatballs and provides a base for your bowls. You’ll use 1/4 cup in the meatballs and 1/4 cup for serving. Brown rice or quinoa are great alternatives for added fiber.
1/4 cup breadcrumbs: Breadcrumbs help to bind the meatballs and create a tender texture. Panko breadcrumbs will give you an extra crispy exterior. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour.
1 egg: An egg is essential for binding the ingredients together, ensuring your meatballs hold their shape.
1 tablespoon soy sauce: Soy sauce adds umami and saltiness to the meatballs, enhancing their overall flavor. Low-sodium soy sauce is a great option for those watching their salt intake.
1 teaspoon grated ginger: Freshly grated ginger provides a warm, spicy kick. If you don’t have fresh ginger, you can use 1/2 teaspoon of ground ginger.
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Garlic powder adds a subtle garlic flavor to the meatballs. Freshly minced garlic can be used for a stronger flavor.
1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Black pepper adds a touch of spice and enhances the other flavors.
1 cup green beans, trimmed: Green beans provide a healthy and colorful element to your bowls. You can substitute with broccoli florets, snap peas, or edamame.
1/4 cup soy sauce: Used in the sesame sauce, soy sauce contributes to the savory and umami flavors.
2 tablespoons honey: Honey adds sweetness and helps to create a glossy glaze. Maple syrup or agave nectar can be used as vegan substitutes.
1 tablespoon rice vinegar: Rice vinegar provides a tangy contrast to the sweetness of the honey and adds complexity to the sauce.
1 teaspoon sesame oil: Sesame oil adds a distinct nutty flavor that is essential for sesame chicken. A little goes a long way!
2 tablespoons sesame seeds: Sesame seeds add a nutty flavor and a beautiful visual appeal.
1 green onion, thinly sliced: Green onion adds a fresh, oniony flavor and a pop of color as a garnish. Chives can also be used.

Having all your ingredients prepped and ready to go will make the cooking process much smoother and more enjoyable. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different vegetables or sweeteners to customize the recipe to your liking. For another quick recipe try these Sesame Beef and Broccoli Bowls

Step-by-Step Guide to Delicious Sesame Chicken Meatball Bowls

Now that you have your ingredients prepped, let’s get cooking! Follow these simple, step-by-step directions to create your own delicious sesame chicken meatball bowls. Don’t worry if you’re not a master chef; I’ve included plenty of tips and tricks to help you along the way.

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Preheating your oven ensures that the meatballs cook evenly and develop a nice, golden-brown exterior. Don’t skip this step!
In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, 1/4 cup cooked rice, breadcrumbs, egg, 1 tablespoon soy sauce, ginger, garlic powder, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined. The key here is to mix gently! Overmixing can result in tough meatballs. Use your hands or a wooden spoon to combine the ingredients until they are just incorporated. Be sure to evenly distribute the spices.
Form the mixture into approximately 1-inch meatballs. Using a cookie scoop or your hands, form the mixture into evenly sized meatballs. This will ensure that they cook at the same rate. Aim for about 1 inch in diameter. If the mixture is too sticky, lightly wet your hands.
Place meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Lining your baking sheet with parchment paper prevents the meatballs from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze. Plus, it ensures even browning on the bottom.
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through. The exact baking time will depend on the size of your meatballs and the oven. Check for doneness by inserting a meat thermometer into the center of a meatball. It should register 165°F (74°C).
While the meatballs are baking, steam or boil green beans until tender-crisp. You want the green beans to be cooked but still have a slight crunch. Steaming is a great way to preserve their nutrients. Alternatively, you can blanch them in boiling water for a few minutes.
In a small saucepan, whisk together 1/4 cup soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook for 5 minutes, or until the sauce has slightly thickened. This step is where the magic happens! Whisk the ingredients together continuously to prevent the honey from burning. Simmering the sauce allows the flavors to meld and thicken slightly.
Once the meatballs are cooked, toss them in the sesame sauce until evenly coated. Remove the meatballs from the oven and immediately transfer them to the saucepan with the sesame sauce. Toss gently until they are completely coated in the glossy, flavorful sauce.
To assemble the bowls, divide the remaining 1/4 cup cooked rice between bowls. Top with green beans and sesame chicken meatballs. Now it’s time to assemble your delicious bowls! Divide the cooked rice evenly between two bowls. Top with the steamed green beans and the sesame chicken meatballs.
Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onion. A final sprinkle of sesame seeds and sliced green onion adds a touch of visual appeal and enhances the overall flavor. Feel free to add other garnishes, such as a drizzle of sriracha or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for added heat.

Congratulations! You’ve just created a delicious and satisfying meal. Take a moment to admire your handiwork before digging in. The aroma alone is enough to make your mouth water! Now, let’s explore some expert tips and serving suggestions to take your sesame chicken meatball bowls to the next level.

For a great healthy recipe, try this Quinoa Chicken and Artichoke Salad

Expert Tips & Serving Suggestions for the Perfect Bowl

Want to elevate your sesame chicken meatball bowls from good to great? Here are some expert tips and serving suggestions to help you achieve culinary perfection. These tips will help you fine-tune your technique, explore different flavor combinations, and ensure that every bite is a delight.

Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare the meatballs and sauce ahead of time for a quick weeknight meal. The meatballs can be baked and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or frozen for longer storage. The sauce can also be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Serving Suggestions: These bowls are delicious on their own, but they also pair well with other Asian-inspired dishes. Consider serving them with a side of kimchi, edamame, or a simple seaweed salad.
Spice it Up: If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sesame sauce or drizzle your bowls with sriracha.
Vegetable Variations: Feel free to experiment with different vegetables. Broccoli, snap peas, carrots, and bell peppers all work well in this recipe.
Rice Alternatives: If you’re looking for a low-carb option, try serving the meatballs and green beans over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
Protein Power: While this recipe uses ground chicken, you can also use ground turkey or pork.
Garnish Galore: Don’t be afraid to get creative with your garnishes. Toasted sesame seeds, chopped peanuts, crispy fried onions, and a drizzle of sesame oil all add flavor and visual appeal.
Reheating Recommendations: To reheat leftover meatballs, microwave them on medium power for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat them in a skillet over medium heat.
The Perfect Sauce Consistency: If your sauce is too thin, simmer it for a few more minutes to allow it to thicken. If it’s too thick, add a tablespoon or two of water or chicken broth.
Storage Solutions: Store leftover sesame chicken meatball bowls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Chiffonade Those Green Onions: For an elegant presentation, chiffonade the green onions by stacking the leaves, rolling them tightly, and then slicing thinly.
Portion Control: Use a portion scoop to form the meatballs for even cooking and consistent sizing.

Now it’s your turn! Try this recipe and share your creations with friends and family. I’d love to hear your feedback and see your photos. Leave a comment below or tag me on social media. Happy cooking! Also, consider trying these Savory Southwest Stuffed Bell Peppers for another great recipe

Frequently Asked Questions About Sesame Chicken Meatball Bowls

Got questions about making the perfect sesame chicken meatball bowls? This comprehensive FAQ section has you covered! I’ve compiled a list of common questions and concerns, along with detailed answers and helpful tips to ensure your success in the kitchen. From ingredient substitutions to storage solutions, this section is your go-to resource for all things sesame chicken meatballs.

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground chicken?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative to ground chicken. It has a similar flavor profile and texture, and it’s often a leaner option. Just be sure to choose ground turkey that isn’t too dry. A blend of light and dark meat will provide the best flavor and moisture.

What can I use instead of breadcrumbs?

If you’re looking for a gluten-free alternative to breadcrumbs, you have several options. Gluten-free breadcrumbs, almond flour, and crushed crackers all work well. You can also use cooked rice or quinoa for a more nutritious binder.

Can I make these meatballs in an air fryer?

Yes, you can! Air frying is a great way to cook the meatballs quickly and evenly. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place the meatballs in the air fryer basket in a single layer and cook for 12-15 minutes, or until they are cooked through and golden brown. Toss them in the sesame sauce after cooking.

How can I make the sesame sauce thicker?

If your sesame sauce is too thin, you can thicken it by simmering it for a few more minutes. A cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water) can also be added to the sauce while it’s simmering. Whisk continuously until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.

Can I add vegetables to the meatballs?

Yes, you can! Adding finely chopped vegetables to the meatball mixture is a great way to boost the nutritional value and add flavor. Try adding grated carrots, zucchini, or finely chopped onions. Just be sure to squeeze out any excess moisture from the vegetables before adding them to the mixture.

How do I prevent the meatballs from sticking to the baking sheet?

Lining your baking sheet with parchment paper is the best way to prevent the meatballs from sticking. You can also lightly grease the baking sheet with cooking spray. Make sure to space the meatballs evenly on the baking sheet to allow for proper air circulation and even cooking.

Can I freeze these sesame chicken meatballs?

Yes, you can freeze them for later! Allow the cooked meatballs to cool completely. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze for 1-2 hours, or until solid. Transfer the frozen meatballs to a freezer-safe bag or container and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheat them in the oven, microwave, or skillet.

What’s the best way to reheat leftover sesame chicken meatball bowls?

The best way to reheat leftover sesame chicken meatball bowls is in the microwave. Place the bowls in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel. Microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat them in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent them from drying out.

Can I use honey substitutes such as agave or maple syrup?

Yes, you can substitute the honey for maple syrup or agave syrup. The flavor profile might be slightly different, but both are acceptable substitutes to make a great bowl recipe!

What rice should I use for the sesame chicken meatball bowl recipe?

Long grain rice is recommended, but medium or short grain rice can be used as well. It is whatever you have at home and depending on your preference. Brown rice could be used for a healthy choice.

Are sesame chicken meatball bowls suitable for meal prep?

Yes, sesame chicken meatball bowls are perfect for meal prep! Divide the cooked rice, green beans, and meatballs into meal prep containers. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat them in the microwave or skillet.

Can I grill the chicken meatballs instead of baking?

Yes, grilling is another excellent cooking method. Preheat your grill to medium heat. Place the meatballs on the grill and cook for 15-20 minutes, turning frequently, until they are cooked through and have a nice char. Baste them with the sesame sauce during the last few minutes of cooking. These also taste great with creamy potato salad creamy potato salad

Wrapping Up: Your New Favorite Bowl Recipe

There you have it – a complete guide to creating delicious and satisfying sesame chicken meatball bowls! From the tender, flavorful meatballs to the sweet and savory sesame glaze, this recipe is a guaranteed winner. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a healthy and delicious meal prep option, these bowls are sure to become a new favorite in your household.

Don’t be afraid to experiment with different variations and customize the recipe to your liking. Try adding different vegetables, using different types of rice, or adjusting the level of spice. The possibilities are endless! Remember, cooking is all about having fun and creating something that you and your loved ones will enjoy.

Now it’s time to put your newfound knowledge to the test! Gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and create your own masterpiece. And don’t forget to share your creations with me! Leave a comment below or tag me on social media. I can’t wait to see what you come up with. Happy cooking!