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Teriyaki meatballs are not just another meal; they are a delightful fusion of flavors that can captivate the taste buds of anyone who tries them. With their origins rooted in Japanese cuisine, these succulent meatballs have made their way into kitchens around the world, adored for their balance of sweet and savory flavors. The teriyaki sauce, a hallmark of this dish, is known for its glossy sheen and rich flavor profile, which beautifully complements the tender meatballs made from ground chicken or turkey.

Sticky Sweet Teriyaki Meatballs – A Meal Prep Favorite!

Discover the mouthwatering world of sticky sweet teriyaki meatballs! This delightful dish skillfully blends sweet and savory flavors, making it a hit for any occasion. Made with lean ground chicken or turkey, and coated in a rich, glossy teriyaki sauce, these meatballs are not only delicious but also versatile. Perfect as appetizers, tossed in stir-fries, or served over rice, they are quick to make and ideal for meal prep. Dive into this easy recipe and elevate your culinary repertoire!
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Ingredients
  

For the Meatballs:

1 lb ground chicken (or turkey)

1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko preferred)

1/4 cup green onions, finely chopped

1/4 cup cilantro, chopped (optional)

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 tsp ginger, grated

1 large egg

1 tsp salt

1/2 tsp pepper

For the Teriyaki Sauce:

1/2 cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)

1/4 cup brown sugar

2 tbsp honey (or maple syrup for vegan)

1 tbsp rice vinegar

1 tbsp sesame oil

1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (for thickening)

1 clove garlic, minced

1/2 tsp ginger, grated

Sesame seeds and additional green onions for garnish

Instructions
 

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

    Make the Meatball Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, green onions, cilantro, garlic, ginger, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined — be careful not to overmix.

      Form the Meatballs: Using your hands or a cookie scoop, form the mixture into meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter. Place them on the prepared baking sheet.

        Bake the Meatballs: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the meatballs are cooked through and golden brown. An internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) is recommended.

          Make the Teriyaki Sauce: While the meatballs are baking, prepare the teriyaki sauce. In a small saucepan, combine the soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat.

            Thicken the Sauce: Once the sauce is simmering, stir in the cornstarch slurry. Continue cooking for 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency. Remove from heat.

              Coat the Meatballs: Once the meatballs are done baking, transfer them to a large bowl. Pour the teriyaki sauce over the meatballs and gently toss to coat.

                Serve: Transfer the sticky sweet teriyaki meatballs to a serving dish. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions. Serve immediately, or allow to cool for meal prep.

                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 mins | 40 mins | 4-6 servings

                    Enjoy your sticky sweet teriyaki meatballs as a delicious meal prep option that pairs perfectly with rice or steamed vegetables!