(Sticky, Savory-Sweet & Weeknight-Friendly)

There’s something deeply satisfying about pulling a sheet pan out of the oven filled with golden, caramelized meatballs that smell like ginger, garlic, and toasted sesame. These Sheet Pan Sesame Ginger Chicken Meatballs with Sweet Chili Glaze are juicy on the inside, lightly crisp on the outside, and coated in a glossy glaze that hits all the right notes: savory, sweet, and just a little sticky.

This is one of those dinners that feels exciting without being complicated. Everything cooks together on a single pan, which means less mess and more flavor. The meatballs roast until perfectly tender, then get brushed with a sweet chili glaze that clings to every curve, creating that irresistible lacquered finish you usually only get from takeout.

Whether you serve them over rice, tuck them into lettuce wraps, or add them to a quick veggie bowl, this recipe is versatile, crowd pleasing, and ideal for busy weeknights when you still want something bold and comforting.

Ginger Sesame Chicken Meatballs

What Is Sheet Pan Sesame Ginger Chicken Meatballs with Sweet Chili Glaze?

This dish features ground chicken meatballs seasoned with fresh ginger, garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil, then baked on a sheet pan until juicy and lightly browned. Once cooked, they’re brushed or tossed with a sweet chili glaze that thickens slightly in the oven, giving the meatballs a glossy, flavorful coating.

The flavors are inspired by Asian-style meatballs and stir fry sauces, but the cooking method keeps things simple and approachable. Instead of pan frying or simmering, everything is oven-roasted, which allows the meatballs to cook evenly while developing great texture.

What makes this recipe stand out is the balance. The chicken stays light and tender, the ginger and garlic add warmth and depth, and the sweet chili glaze brings just enough sweetness and heat to keep every bite interesting.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One-pan cooking means easy prep and quick cleanup.
Juicy, tender meatballs thanks to simple moisture boosting ingredients.
Big flavor without fuss, using everyday pantry staples.
Great for meal prep, leftovers reheat beautifully.
Versatile serving options, from bowls to wraps to appetizers.

How This Recipe Works

Ground chicken stays moist when mixed gently and not overworked.
Ginger, garlic, and sesame oil infuse the meatballs with bold flavor.
Oven roasting browns the outside while keeping the inside juicy.
Sweet chili glaze caramelizes slightly, creating a sticky, glossy finish.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Meatballs

1 pound ground chicken
½ cup panko breadcrumbs
1 large egg
2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 green onions, finely chopped
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper

For the Sweet Chili Glaze

⅓ cup sweet chili sauce
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar
1 teaspoon rice vinegar or lime juice
½ teaspoon grated ginger (optional for extra kick)

Optional Garnishes

Sesame seeds
Sliced green onions
Red pepper flakes

Close up of sesame ginger chicken meatballs — Juicy meatball with sticky sweet chili glaze in every bite

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large sheet pan with parchment paper or foil.

2. Make the Meatball Mixture

In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, panko, egg, soy sauce, sesame oil, ginger, garlic, green onions, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined.

3. Shape the Meatballs

Scoop and roll the mixture into evenly sized meatballs, about 1½ inches each. Place them on the sheet pan with space between each one.

4. Bake

Bake for 15–18 minutes, until meatballs are cooked through and lightly golden.

5. Prepare the Glaze

While the meatballs bake, whisk together all glaze ingredients in a small bowl.

6. Glaze and Finish

Remove the pan from the oven. Brush or spoon the glaze over each meatball, then return to the oven for 5–7 minutes, until sticky and slightly caramelized.

7. Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle with sesame seeds and green onions. Serve warm.

Tips & Tricks / Flavor Variations

Extra crispy edges: Broil for 1–2 minutes at the end.
Spicy version: Add sriracha or chili flakes to the glaze.
Gluten-free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and tamari.
Veggie boost: Roast broccoli or snap peas on the same pan.
Sauce swap: Try hoisin or teriyaki for a different flavor profile.

If you enjoy bold, easy chicken recipes, these pair well with dishes like Creamy Chicken Mushroom Spinach Skillet or Easy Chicken Sausage and Veggies Sheet Pan Recipe for weekly meal planning.

Make-Ahead, Storage & Freezing Instructions

Make-Ahead:
Form meatballs up to 24 hours ahead and store covered in the fridge.

Storage:
Store cooked meatballs in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Reheating:
Reheat in the oven or skillet until warmed through. Microwave works, but the glaze stays best with oven heat.

Freezing:
Freeze cooked or uncooked meatballs for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating or baking.

Sheet pan sesame ginger chicken meatballs served with rice — Juicy, flavorful meatballs ready for dinner tonight

Serving Suggestions

Serve over steamed jasmine rice or fried rice
Add to noodle bowls with veggies
Use in lettuce wraps for a lighter option
Serve as a party appetizer with toothpicks
Pair with roasted or stir fried vegetables

Nutritional Notes (Approximate Per Serving)

Calories: 420–460
Protein: 30–34g
Fat: 18–22g
Carbohydrates: 25–30g

Values vary based on glaze and portion size.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overmixing the meat, which makes meatballs dense.
Skipping parchment paper, causing sticking.
Crowding the pan, which prevents browning.
Adding glaze too early, which can burn.

FAQs About Sheet Pan Sesame Ginger Chicken Meatballs with Sweet Chili Glaze

Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?
Yes, ground turkey works perfectly.

Are these meatballs spicy?
They’re mildly sweet with gentle heat. Adjust spice to taste.

Can I pan-fry instead of bake?
Yes, but baking keeps them lighter and easier.

Do these work for meal prep?
Absolutely. They reheat very well.

Can I double the recipe?
Yes, just use two sheet pans to avoid overcrowding.

Conclusion

These Sheet Pan Sesame Ginger Chicken Meatballs with Sweet Chili Glaze are proof that bold, crave-worthy dinners don’t need complicated steps or piles of dishes. Juicy meatballs, sticky glaze, and endless serving options make this a recipe you’ll reach for again and again.

If you love easy Dinners like Baked Lemon Butter Cod or Crockpot Hawaiian Meatballs, this recipe belongs in your regular rotation.

Sticky, saucy chicken meatballs with sesame-ginger flavor 🥢✨ Save this Sheet Pan Sesame Ginger Chicken Meatballs recipe for your next easy, better-than-takeout dinner!

Sheet Pan Sesame Ginger Chicken Meatballs with Sweet Chili Glaze Recipe

These Sheet Pan Sesame Ginger Chicken Meatballs with Sweet Chili Glaze are packed with bold, Asian-inspired flavors and baked to perfection for a crispy exterior and juicy interior. Tossed in a sticky, sweet-spicy glaze and sprinkled with sesame seeds, they deliver the perfect balance of savory, tangy, and slightly sweet in every bite. Quick, easy, and full of flavor, they’re ideal for weeknight dinners or party appetizers.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 15

Total Time 30

Course Appetizer, Main Course

Cuisine Asian

Servings 4

Calories 320 kcal