Air Fryer Chicken Meatballs

There’s something utterly satisfying about making Air Fryer Chicken Meatballs at home. I still remember the first time I experimented with them. It was a chilly evening, and I was craving something hearty yet light. So, I decided to whip up a batch of chicken meatballs. As I mixed the ingredients, the aroma of the spices filled my kitchen, triggering memories of family gatherings. These meatballs were not just a dinner option; they became a delightful centerpiece for our cozy family meals. The best part? Lightly crisped on the outside in the air fryer, they turned out to be perfectly juicy on the inside.

Ingredient List for Air Fryer Chicken Meatballs

The ingredients for Air Fryer Chicken Meatballs come together beautifully to create a dish that’s flavorful and satisfying. The key players here are the ground chicken, which forms the base, and the breadcrumbs that give it that perfect texture. Each ingredient contributes a unique taste, ensuring every bite is a delight.

• 1 cup breadcrumbs: This is the binding agent that helps hold the meatballs together while adding a nice texture.
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest: It adds a refreshing brightness that elevates the flavors.
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt: Essential for bringing all the flavors together.
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes: These give the meatballs a subtle kick without overpowering.
• 1 large egg, beaten: Acts as a binder, ensuring the meatballs stay moist.
• 1 clove garlic, grated: Adds a wonderful depth of flavor.
• 1 pound ground chicken: The main ingredient that makes these meatballs hearty and filling.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: Used for greasing and adding richness.

Air Fryer Chicken Meatballs Instructions

Making Air Fryer Chicken Meatballs is an enjoyable experience that’s almost foolproof. Follow along with these simple steps to create your perfect meatballs. You’ll be amazed at how easily they come together!

1. First, grease the basket of your air fryer with olive oil spray or brush it with some olive oil. This will prevent the meatballs from sticking.
2. In a large bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs, lemon zest, kosher salt, and red pepper flakes. This blend will create a flavorful base for your meatballs.
3. Add the beaten egg and grated garlic to the bowl, mixing well to combine. Ensure everything is evenly distributed.
4. Next, gently add the ground chicken to the mixture. Mix it together very gently, being careful not to compact the meat. This is crucial for keeping your meatballs tender.
5. Now, coat your hands in some olive oil and scoop out golf ball-sized portions of the mixture. Roll them into smooth balls. Make sure they are uniform in size for even cooking.
6. Place the meatballs in the air fryer basket, making sure not to overcrowd. You want them to have enough space to cook evenly. I usually get about 20 meatballs from this recipe.
7. Set the air fryer to 380 degrees F and cook the meatballs for 10 to 12 minutes. Keep an eye on them; they should be golden brown on the outside and reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees F.
8. Once cooked, you can coat the meatballs in your favorite sauce, if desired. Sprinkle with grated parmesan and flaky sea salt for an extra touch. Serve them immediately for the best flavor.
9. Lastly, for storage, keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Enjoy your delicious creation!

Expert Tips about Air Fryer Chicken Meatballs

Looking to perfect your Air Fryer Chicken Meatballs? Below are some expert tips and tricks to elevate your meatball game.

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll stay fresh for up to three days.
• Freezing: You can freeze raw meatballs before cooking. Just lay them out on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag.
• Pairing: These meatballs are perfect for serving with spaghetti, in a sub sandwich, or even as a standalone appetizer.
• Cooking Time: Every air fryer is different, so check on your meatballs a couple of minutes early to prevent overcooking.
• Flavor Variations: Feel free to play around with spices or add some finely chopped vegetables into the mix for extra nutrition.

Great Combinations for Air Fryer Chicken Meatballs

When it comes to serving Air Fryer Chicken Meatballs, the possibilities are endless. Here are some fantastic combinations to consider:

• Spaghetti: Serve the meatballs over pasta with marinara sauce for a classic Italian meal.
• Sub Sandwich: Place the meatballs in a sub roll with marinara and melted cheese for a hearty sandwich.
• Salad: Toss them on a fresh salad for a protein-packed lunch.
• Party Appetizer: Serve with toothpicks and a variety of dipping sauces for a crowd-pleasing snack.
• Meal Prep: Make a big batch and meal prep them for the week. They’re great for quick lunches or dinners.

FAQ

Conclusion

In summary, Air Fryer Chicken Meatballs are a sensational recipe that promises juicy texture and incredible flavor. They’re not just easy to make; they also offer versatility for any meal occasion. I encourage you to try this dish tonight and experience the delightful taste and texture for yourself. You’re sure to impress your family and friends with this simple yet scrumptious recipe!

Air Fryer Chicken Meatballs

The ultimate comfort food, Air Fryer Chicken Meatballs are juicy, flavorful, and perfectly crispy. Ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or as a delicious appetizer, these meatballs are a healthy alternative without sacrificing taste. Make them tonight for a satisfying meal!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 20 meatballs

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 180

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 1 clove garlic, grated
• 1 pound ground chicken
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Equipment

• Air Fryer
• Cookie scoop
• Air Fryer Parchment Paper
• Air Fryer 5.8 QT

Method

 

1. Grease the basket of the air fryer with olive oil spray or brush it with olive oil. Set aside.
2. In a large bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs, lemon zest, salt, and red pepper flakes.
3. Next, add the beaten egg and grated garlic. Mix to combine.
4. Finally, add the chicken and very gently mix to combine. You don’t want to compact the meat or you’ll end up with dense meatballs.
5. Coat your hands with olive oil and scoop out golf ball-sized portions. Roll them into smooth balls and place them in the air fryer, making sure not to overcrowd the basket. I got about 20 meatballs.
6. Cook the meatballs at 380 degrees F for 10-12 minutes, or until the outside of the meatballs is golden brown and the inside registers 165 degrees F on an instant-read thermometer.
7. Coat the meatballs in the sauce (below) and sprinkle with grated parmesan and flakey sea salt, if using. Enjoy immediately.
8. Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.

Notes

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
• Freezing: You can freeze raw meatballs before cooking. Just lay them out on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag.
• Pairing: These meatballs are perfect for serving with spaghetti, in a sub sandwich, or even as a standalone appetizer.
• Cooking Time: Every air fryer is different, so check on your meatballs a couple of minutes early to prevent overcooking.
• Flavor Variations: Feel free to play around with spices or add some finely chopped vegetables into the mix for extra nutrition.

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Meet Diana Foster

I appreciate the beauty of a well-made meal, but I also value simplicity. I’m always looking for that perfect balance of big flavor and low stress. I developed this recipe to be reliable, tasty, and perfect for your daily rotation.