Name: Sheet Pan Sticky Gochujang Chicken Meatballs
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Ground turkey or chicken; 2 tablespoons Low sodium soy sauce or tamari; 1-2 tablespoons Gochujang (Korean chili paste); 3 units Green onions, finely chopped; 1 inch Fresh ginger, grated; 1 clove Garlic, minced or grated; 1 large head Broccoli, cut into florets; 2 tablespoons Sesame oil or extra virgin olive oil; 1/3 cup Low sodium soy sauce or tamari; 2 tablespoons Honey; 2 tablespoons Rice vinegar; 1-2 tablespoons Gochujang (Korean chili paste); 1 inch Fresh ginger, grated; 2 cloves Garlic, grated; 1 tablespoon Toasted sesame oil; 1/4 cup Plain Greek yogurt or avocado oil mayo; Rice, sesame seeds, chiles, and kimchi

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One of my absolute favorite weeknight meals has to be Sheet Pan Sticky Gochujang Chicken Meatballs. It’s a dish that brings together so many flavors and textures, and what’s better is that it all comes together on one pan. Picture this: you come home after a long day, and the thought of cooking seems overwhelming. But then you remember this easy recipe, and suddenly the kitchen is a place of joy rather than stress. The spicy and savory notes of Gochujang blend seamlessly with the tenderness of the chicken meatballs, making each bite a delightful experience.

As you prepare this dish, the aroma fills your kitchen, reminding you that cooking can be a comforting ritual. I love how the broccoli roasts perfectly alongside the meatballs, soaking up the flavors without any extra fuss. And let’s not forget that sticky sauce! It’s the perfect finale that ties everything together – sweet, spicy, and oh-so-lick-worthy. Whenever I serve this, whether it’s just for myself or for friends, there’s a collective moment of happiness around the table that can’t be denied. This is more than just a meal; it’s a creation of warmth and togetherness.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
35 mins

Prep Time:
15 mins

Cook Time:
20 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
350 kcal

Protein:
25 g

Diet:
Whole30, Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
15 g

Tools Used:
Chef’s Knife, Grater, Large Pot, Mixing Bowl, Baking Sheet, Oven

What Makes This Sheet Pan Sticky Gochujang Chicken Meatballs Special

Easy Cleanup

One of the best things about the Sheet Pan Sticky Gochujang Chicken Meatballs is the minimal cleanup involved. Since everything cooks on one sheet, you save time both in cooking and cleaning up. No need for multiple pots and pans, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights.

Flavor Explosion

The combination of flavors in this dish is truly outstanding. The spice from the Gochujang adds a kick, while the sweetness of honey and the tang of rice vinegar balance it out perfectly. Each meatball is packed with flavor, ensuring every bite is satisfying.

Customizable Ingredients

This recipe is incredibly adaptable. Feel free to add more veggies or adjust the spice level according to your preferences. You can swap out the chicken for turkey or even create a vegetarian version using plant-based meat. It’s a dish that welcomes creativity!

Healthy and Nutritious

With the addition of fresh broccoli and lean protein, the Sheet Pan Sticky Gochujang Chicken Meatballs are not just delicious but also nutritious. You get a good dose of veggies along with your protein, making it a well-rounded meal.

Perfect for Meal Prep

If you’re looking to prepare meals in advance, this recipe is a fantastic choice. You can make a double batch and store leftovers for lunches or quick dinners throughout the week. Simply reheat, and you have a delightful meal ready to go!

Family-Friendly

This dish tends to be a hit with family members of all ages. Kids love the meatballs, while adults appreciate the bold flavors and healthy ingredients. It’s a meal that brings everyone to the table, creating a sense of togetherness.

Ingredients to Make Sheet Pan Sticky Gochujang Chicken Meatballs

For the Sheet Pan Sticky Gochujang Chicken Meatballs, we’re using a delightful mix of ingredients that not only taste fantastic but also complement each other beautifully. The key players here are the lean ground chicken, spicy Gochujang, and fresh vegetables, all working together to create a vibrant dish.

1 pound ground turkey or chicken – This is the protein base of our dish, ensuring it’s hearty and filling.
2 tablespoons low sodium soy sauce or tamari – Adds a depth of flavor with its salty kick.
1-2 tablespoons Gochujang (Korean chili paste) – The star ingredient that provides a spicy, rich flavor.
3 green onions, finely chopped – Adds freshness and brightness to the meatballs.
1 inch fresh ginger, grated – This provides a warm, zesty kick.
1 clove garlic, minced or grated – A must-have for that aromatic flavor.
1 large head broccoli, cut into florets – Perfect for roasting alongside the meatballs.
2 tablespoons sesame oil or extra virgin olive oil – Adds richness and depth to the flavor profile.
1/3 cup low sodium soy sauce or tamari – For the sticky sauce that adds a layer of sweetness.
2 tablespoons honey – Balances the heat with its sweetness.
2 tablespoons rice vinegar – Provides acidity to brighten the dish.
1-2 tablespoons Gochujang (Korean chili paste) – Used again in the sauce for consistency in flavor.
1 inch fresh ginger, grated – A little more ginger for the sauce enhances the taste.
2 cloves garlic, grated – Extra garlic for a boost of flavor in the sauce.
1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil – For finishing touches in depth and flavor.
1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt or avocado oil mayo – Adds creaminess to the finished dish.
Rice, sesame seeds, chiles, and kimchi – For serving, these toppings elevate the dish even further.

Putting Together Sheet Pan Sticky Gochujang Chicken Meatballs

Creating the Sheet Pan Sticky Gochujang Chicken Meatballs is a simple yet satisfying process. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time!

Preheat the oven to 450° F. Line a baking sheet with parchment. This will help prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
To make the meatballs, add the ground chicken, soy sauce, Gochujang, green onions, ginger, and garlic to a bowl. Mix until just combined. You want to be gentle here; overmixing can make the meatballs tough.
Coat your hands with a bit of oil, and roll the mixture into rounded tablespoon-size balls, which will yield about 15 to 16 meatballs. Place them on the prepared baking sheet. Don’t worry if the mix feels a bit wet; it’ll firm up nicely in the oven.
Add the broccoli to the other side of the baking sheet and toss it with 1 tablespoon of oil, salt, and pepper. This roasting will give it a nice caramelization while the meatballs cook.
Transfer the baking sheet to the oven and bake for 15 minutes or until the meatballs are crisp and cooked through. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t overcook.
Meanwhile, prepare the sticky Gochujang sauce. In a small pot, combine the soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, Gochujang, ginger, garlic, sesame oil, and 1/4 cup of water. Bring the mixture to a boil for 5 minutes, stirring, until the sauce thickens and reduces by about a quarter.
Once the meatballs are ready, remove the broccoli from the baking sheet. Pour about half of the sauce over the meatballs, tossing them gently to combine. This ensures every meatball is coated in that delicious sauce.
Return the meatballs to the oven for an additional 2 to 3 minutes until the sauce clings to them.
In a small bowl, combine 2 to 3 tablespoons of the remaining sticky Gochujang sauce from the previous step with the yogurt. This creates a creamy dip that enhances the dish.
Serve the meatballs and sauce over bowls of rice, topping with additional green onions and sesame seeds. Enjoy the broccoli on the side for a complete meal. Dig in and savor every bite!

Things Worth Knowing

Preheating is key: Always preheat your oven to ensure even cooking. This helps the meatballs get that perfect crispiness.
Don’t skip the parchment: Using parchment paper on your baking sheet prevents sticking and simplifies cleanup.
Texture check: When mixing the meatball ingredients, avoid overmixing. This keeps the meatballs tender and juicy.
Adjust to your taste: Feel free to modify the heat by adding more or less Gochujang based on your preference.

Variations to Try

There are countless ways to tweak the Sheet Pan Sticky Gochujang Chicken Meatballs to keep things exciting. Here are some ideas to get you started!

Change the Protein: Substitute the chicken with turkey or use a plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian option.
Extra Veggies: Add more vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas to the roasting pan for added color and nutrients.
Different Sauces: Switch up the sauce by adding different spices or using a teriyaki sauce for a different flavor profile.
Serving Style: Serve the meatballs in lettuce wraps for a low-carb option, or pair them with noodles for a heartier meal.
Meal Prep: Make extra meatballs and freeze them for quick meals later on. Simply reheat and enjoy.
Garnish Options: Top with crushed peanuts or cilantro for an added layer of flavor and texture.

What Complements This Sheet Pan Sticky Gochujang Chicken Meatballs

When it comes to serving the Sheet Pan Sticky Gochujang Chicken Meatballs, there are plenty of delightful options that can elevate your meal to new heights.

Rice: Serve the meatballs over steamed rice, which acts as a perfect base to soak up all that flavorful sauce.
Side Salads: A crisp salad with a light vinaigrette can balance the rich flavors of the dish.
Asian Slaw: A crunchy slaw can add texture and a refreshing bite that complements the meatballs.
Kimchi: For those who enjoy a bit of tang, serve with a side of kimchi for an extra flavor kick.
Occasions: This dish is perfect for family dinners, casual gatherings, or even meal prep for the week ahead.
Seasonal Pairings: In the fall, serve with roasted squash or in the summer, pair with a refreshing cucumber salad.

FAQ

Gochujang is a Korean chili paste made from fermented soybeans, red chili powder, glutinous rice, and salt. It has a unique taste that combines spiciness with sweetness and a deep umami flavor. Its versatility makes it a popular ingredient in Korean cuisine, often used in marinades, soups, and sauces. When used in recipes like Sheet Pan Sticky Gochujang Chicken Meatballs, it elevates the dish with its distinctive flavor profile.

Absolutely! The spice level in Sheet Pan Sticky Gochujang Chicken Meatballs can be adjusted to suit your taste. If you enjoy a fiery kick, feel free to add more Gochujang to the meatball mixture or the sauce. Alternately, you can include sliced fresh chiles or a pinch of cayenne pepper. Just remember to taste as you go to achieve your desired heat level!

If you have leftovers from your Sheet Pan Sticky Gochujang Chicken Meatballs, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply place them in the microwave or oven until warmed through. For best results, add a splash of water or sauce when reheating to keep the meatballs moist.

Yes! The Sheet Pan Sticky Gochujang Chicken Meatballs are perfect for meal prep. You can make a double batch and store them in separate containers. Pair them with cooked rice or other grains, and you’ll have easy-to-grab meals for weekdays. Just reheat when you’re ready to eat!

Conclusion

In summary, the Sheet Pan Sticky Gochujang Chicken Meatballs are a flavorful, easy-to-make dish that brings a delightful mix of tastes and textures to the table. I encourage you to try making this dish for your next family meal or gathering. It’s sure to impress and satisfy everyone’s cravings. Happy cooking!