If you’re on the hunt for a quick, delicious dinner that’s bound to impress, look no further! These scrumptious, golden-brown Air Fryer Chicken Meatballs With Parmesan are not only packed with flavor but also come together in a flash. Made with simple yet delicious ingredients, this dish is a staple in my kitchen and might just become one in yours too!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy Preparation: These meatballs are ready in just 20 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Healthy and Flavorful: By using an air fryer, you get all the deliciousness with less fat.
- Versatile and Adaptable: Easily adjust seasonings or try different herbs to suit your palate.
- Kid-Friendly: These meatballs are sure to be a hit with the little ones, making dinnertime a joy.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of these Air Fryer Chicken Meatballs With Parmesan lies in their simplicity. Each ingredient is thoughtfully chosen to create a balance of flavor and texture. You’ll find most of these items already in your pantry or fridge.
- Ground chicken: Choose lean ground chicken for a healthier option that still packs in flavor.
- Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs provide a delightful crunch, though regular breadcrumbs work wonderfully too.
- Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty and savory depth that is simply irresistible.
- Olive oil: Helps the meatballs crisp up beautifully and adds a hint of richness.
- Garlic and onion powder: Essential seasonings that build a robust base flavor.
Variations
There’s nothing quite as satisfying as crafting your own signature twist on a beloved dish. Feel free to experiment with these variations to tailor the recipe to your personal needs or taste buds.
- Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes for those who like it hot.
- Herb Infusion: Substitute parsley with basil or oregano for a different aromatic profile.
- Cheese Lover’s Delight: Mix in some shredded mozzarella for extra cheesiness.
How to Make Air Fryer Chicken Meatballs With Parmesan
Step 1: Mix the Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, egg, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, pepper, and parsley. Mix everything with your hands or a spatula until you get a well-incorporated mixture.
Step 2: Shape the Meatballs
Take about a heaping tablespoon of the chicken mixture and roll it into a ball. Place each one on a parchment-lined sheet, ensuring they are evenly sized for uniform cooking. This recipe yields around 24 delightful meatballs!
Step 3: Air Fry to Perfection
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F. Lightly spray the basket with cooking oil or use foil for easy cleanup. Carefully place the meatballs in the basket and cook them for about 10 minutes, flipping halfway through until they are browned and cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F.
Pro Tips for Making Air Fryer Chicken Meatballs With Parmesan
- Perfect Meatball Shape: Dampen your hands slightly when shaping to prevent sticking.
- Even Cooking: Ensure the meatballs are evenly spaced in the air fryer to allow for proper air circulation.
- Flavor Boost: Let the mixture rest for 10 minutes before shaping to allow flavors to meld well.
- Temperature Check: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the perfect cook—165°F is ideal for chicken.
How to Serve Air Fryer Chicken Meatballs With Parmesan
Garnishes
Top your Air Fryer Chicken Meatballs With Parmesan with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan and chopped parsley for a fresh, vibrant finish. It not only enhances the flavor but also adds an appealing touch to your presentation.
Side Dishes
These meatballs pair beautifully with a side of garlic mashed potatoes, a fresh garden salad, or even some herbed pasta for a more filling meal. They’re so versatile, you’ll have no trouble finding the perfect sidekick!
Creative Ways to Present
For an elegant touch, consider small skewers to serve them as appetizers at gatherings. Or, nestle them in a warm, crusty baguette with some marinara sauce for a quick sub sandwich. Your guests will be wowed by your culinary creativity!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. They’re fabulous when reheated and retain their juicy, flavorful goodness perfectly.
Freezing
Lay the cooked meatballs on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze until solid before transferring to a ziplock bag. They’ll keep well for up to three months, ready to be enjoyed at your convenience.
Reheating
Reheat your meatballs in the microwave or pop them back in the air fryer for a few minutes for that freshly cooked texture. If you’re reheating from frozen, allow an extra minute or two.
FAQs
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Can I use turkey instead of chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a fantastic substitute and will add a slightly different flavor profile but maintain a similar texture to the chicken meatballs.
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What can I use in place of breadcrumbs?
If you’re out of breadcrumbs, crushed crackers or oats can work as great alternatives to bind the mixture together.
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How do I know when the meatballs are done?
The perfect internal temperature for chicken is 165°F. You can use a meat thermometer to check this.
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Can I bake these instead of using an air fryer?
Yes, you can bake them in a preheated oven at 400°F for about 18-20 minutes, flipping them halfway through.
Final Thoughts
This Air Fryer Chicken Meatballs With Parmesan recipe is a warm invitation to discover a new family favorite. Easy to make and absolutely delicious, it’s perfect for any occasion when you want a meal that’s as delightful as it is quick to prepare. I can’t wait for you to give this a try and fall in love with its charm!
Print
Air Fryer Chicken Meatballs With Parmesan Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 24 meatballs 1x
- Category: Appetizer, Main Course
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American, Italian-inspired
- Diet: High Protein
Description
These flavorful Air Fryer Chicken Meatballs with Parmesan are a quick and healthy appetizer or main dish. Juicy ground chicken is combined with Parmesan cheese and spices, then air-fried to perfection for a crispy exterior and tender inside. Perfect served with marinara sauce or your favorite dipping sauce, they make a delicious and protein-packed meal or snack.
Ingredients
Meatball Mixture
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- 3 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp parsley (dried) or 2 tbsp fresh chopped
Instructions
- Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, egg, bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, olive oil, and parsley. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Form Meatballs: Take about a heaping tablespoon of the mixture and shape it into a compact ball. Repeat to form approximately 24 meatballs. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or line it with foil for easy cleanup.
- Cook Meatballs: Arrange the meatballs in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 10 minutes, flipping halfway through, or until they are browned and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F).
- Serve: Remove the meatballs and serve immediately with marinara sauce or your preferred dipping sauce. For additional warmth, you can air fry a second batch or reheat all cooked meatballs in the fryer for 2-3 minutes.
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or air fryer.
- To freeze, arrange uncooked meatballs on a parchment-lined sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer to a zip-lock bag and store for up to 3 months. To cook from frozen, air fry for about 12 minutes until heated through.
- For best results, do not overcrowd the air fryer basket to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 meatballs
- Calories: 211 kcal
- Sugar: 0.5 g
- Sodium: 350 mg
- Fat: 12.3 g
- Saturated Fat: 3.4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8.5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 5.5 g
- Fiber: 0.3 g
- Protein: 20.4 g
- Cholesterol: 60 mg
