Looking for a delightful twist on a classic dish? These Air Fryer Chicken Meatballs With Parmesan are exactly what you need. Crispy on the outside, tender and juicy on the inside, these meatballs are a flavor-packed treat that’s both healthy and satisfying. They come together in a flash, thanks to the trusty air fryer, making them perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 20 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy nights.
- Healthier Choice: Using an air fryer means less oil and calories without sacrificing flavor.
- Kid-Friendly: The subtle flavors make it a hit with kids and adults alike.
- Versatile: These meatballs can be served in various ways to suit your meal plan.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of Air Fryer Chicken Meatballs With Parmesan lies in its simple yet essential ingredients. Each component plays a role in crafting the perfect balance of taste, texture, and aroma.
- Ground Chicken: Keeps the meatballs light and juicy, and pairs perfectly with the Parmesan.
- Grated Parmesan Cheese: Adds a nutty flavor and a touch of creaminess that enriches the meatballs.
- Bread Crumbs: Help maintain the meatball’s shape while providing a lovely crust.
- Garlic and Onion Powder: Infuse the meatballs with delicious savory notes.
- Paprika: Brings a subtle smoky sweetness that complements the cheese.
Variations
Don’t hesitate to put your own spin on these versatile Air Fryer Chicken Meatballs With Parmesan. They’re wonderfully adaptable to suit personal tastes and dietary preferences.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for those who enjoy an extra heat.
- Herb Explosion: Incorporate fresh basil or oregano for an Italian flair.
How to Make Air Fryer Chicken Meatballs With Parmesan
Step 1: Mix the Ingredients
Into a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, egg, breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, and seasonings. Mix until just combined, ensuring all ingredients are evenly distributed.
Step 2: Form the Meatballs
Take a heaping tablespoon of the chicken mixture and shape it into a ball. Place each one on a parchment-lined tray, ensuring they don’t touch.
Step 3: Air Fry
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F. Arrange the meatballs in the basket without overcrowding. Air fry for 10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through.
Pro Tips for Making Air Fryer Chicken Meatballs With Parmesan
- Even Cooking: Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket to ensure the meatballs cook evenly.
- Flavor Boost: Toast the breadcrumbs slightly before mixing for a richer flavor.
- Check Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure an internal temperature of 165°F for perfect doneness.
- Moisture Lock: Combine the ingredients gently to keep the meatballs from becoming tough.
How to Serve Air Fryer Chicken Meatballs With Parmesan
Garnishes
Top these delightful meatballs with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a dusting of extra Parmesan cheese for added flavor and presentation appeal.
Side Dishes
Pair your Air Fryer Chicken Meatballs With Parmesan with a crisp side salad or buttery garlic bread to create a well-rounded meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve these meatballs on skewers for a fun appetizer, or over a bed of linguine with marinara sauce for a classic Italian-inspired dish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
To enjoy your meatballs another day, store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. This ensures they stay fresh and delicious.
Freezing
For longer storage, place meatballs on a parchment-lined sheet to freeze. Once frozen, transfer them to a ziplock bag and freeze for up to three months.
Reheating
To reheat, pop them in the microwave or back in the air fryer until warmed through. For frozen meatballs, air fry them for about 12 minutes to ensure they’re thoroughly heated.
FAQs
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Can I use a different type of meat?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or beef can be used as a substitute, though cooking times may vary slightly.
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How can I make these meatballs gluten-free?
Simply swap the breadcrumbs for a gluten-free variety, ensuring all other ingredients are also gluten-free.
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What can I do if I don’t have an air fryer?
Bake the meatballs in a preheated oven at 400°F for approximately 20 minutes, turning halfway through.
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Can I prepare these meatballs the night before?
Yes, prepare and refrigerate the meatballs uncooked. When ready, simply air fry them for a fresh taste.
Final Thoughts
Give these Air Fryer Chicken Meatballs With Parmesan a try, and you’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe time and again. Simple to make and bursting with flavor, they’re a fantastic addition to any meal rotation. Enjoy the cooking, and more importantly, the eating!
Print
Air Fryer Chicken Meatballs With Parmesan Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 24 meatballs
- Category: Appetizer, Main Course
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
These flavorful air fryer chicken meatballs with Parmesan are quick to prepare, juicy on the inside, and perfectly crispy on the outside. Made with ground chicken, Parmesan cheese, and a blend of seasonings, they’re a healthier protein-packed option that can be served with marinara sauce for dipping or over pasta. The air fryer method ensures crispy exterior without the need for deep frying, making them a convenient and delicious 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
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 until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
- Shape meatballs: Take a heaping tablespoon of the mixture and shape it into a ball. Repeat with remaining mixture to make approximately 24 meatballs. Place the shaped meatballs on a parchment-lined sheet.
- Preheat air fryer: Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and let it preheat for a few minutes. Line the basket with foil or spray with cooking oil to prevent sticking.
- Cook meatballs: Place the meatballs in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they are not crowded. Air fry for 10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until browned and cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Serve: Remove the meatballs and serve warm with marinara sauce or your preferred dipping sauce. To reheat, place all cooked meatballs back in the air fryer for a few minutes.
Notes
- Store – Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or air fryer.
- Freeze – Arrange cooked or raw meatballs on a parchment-lined sheet and freeze. Transfer to a ziplock bag for up to 3 months. To cook from frozen, air fry for about 12 minutes until cooked through.
- Tip – Use fresh parsley for a more vibrant flavor, but dried works well too.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 meatballs (about 112 grams)
- Calories: 211 kcal
- Sugar: 1.2 g
- Sodium: 420 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: 62 mg
