The Air Fryer Chicken Meatballs With Parmesan are a game-changer for busy weeknights where delicious simplicity reigns supreme. These juicy morsels pack a punch of flavor, melded with Parmesan cheese and spices, making them a family favorite in my house.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: Ready in just 20 minutes, these meatballs are perfect for impromptu dinners or unexpected guests.
- Healthy & Delicious: Made with lean chicken and packed with protein, these meatballs are both nutritious and satisfying.
- Versatile: Pair these meatballs with pasta, salads, or enjoy them as a snack – they complement a variety of dishes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering all the ingredients is a breeze, and each one has its own special role, bringing texture and flavor that make these meatballs truly irresistible.
- Ground Chicken: Provides a lean base that’s perfect for absorbing all the wonderful flavors.
- Egg: Acts as a binder, holding the meatballs together while staying moist.
- Breadcrumbs: Adds structure and captures the meat’s juices to keep each bite tender.
- Parmesan Cheese: A touch of cheesy goodness that elevates the flavor profile to gourmet status.
- Garlic & Onion Powder: Essential seasonings that add subtle depth and savory notes.
- Paprika: Provides a hint of smoky sweetness that lingers enticingly.
- Olive Oil: Adds richness and helps achieve the perfect texture.
- Parsley: Offers a pop of color and mild earthy flavor.
Variations
This recipe is as flexible as it is delicious, making it easy to cater to various tastes and dietary needs. Customize the Air Fryer Chicken Meatballs With Parmesan to suit your preferences!
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of chili flakes or cayenne pepper for a little heat.
- Herbal Twist: Swap parsley for basil or oregano to enhance the Italian flavors.
- Cheese Lovers: Mix in some shredded mozzarella for extra gooeyness.
How to Make Air Fryer Chicken Meatballs With Parmesan
Step 1: Prepare the Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, egg, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic and onion powders, paprika, olive oil, salt, pepper, and parsley. Use your hands or a sturdy spoon to mix everything thoroughly until all ingredients are well-blended and the mixture is uniform.
Step 2: Form the Meatballs
Scoop out about a heaping tablespoon of the mixture and roll it between your palms to form a ball. Repeat the process with the rest of the mixture, placing each meatball onto a parchment-lined sheet as you go. Aim for uniform sizes so they cook evenly.
Step 3: Air Fry to Perfection
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F. Line the basket with foil or lightly spray it with cooking oil. Arrange the meatballs in a single layer in the basket, making sure they do not touch. Air fry them for about 10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they’re golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Pro Tips for Making Air Fryer Chicken Meatballs With Parmesan
- Perfect Texture: Don’t overmix the meatball mixture as it can make the meatballs tough instead of tender.
- Even Cooking: Ensure meatballs are the same size for consistent cooking and to prevent some from overcooking.
- Flavor Boost: Let the mixture rest for 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld before forming the meatballs.
- Reheat Like a Pro: If reheating, use the air fryer instead of the microwave for crispy outsides.
How to Serve Air Fryer Chicken Meatballs With Parmesan
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley or a dusting of grated Parmesan as a garnish not only adds visual appeal but also an extra burst of flavor.
Side Dishes
Serve the meatballs atop a bed of spaghetti with marinara sauce, alongside a crisp green salad, or with a side of garlic bread for a complete meal that’s sure to please.
Creative Ways to Present
Place the meatballs on skewers for a fun, snackable format, perfect for parties or game day gatherings. Or try serving them in lettuce wraps for a light, low-carb option.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Airtight containers preserve the meatballs’ freshness and keep your fridge tidy.
Freezing
For longer storage, freeze the meatballs on a parchment-lined sheet before transferring them to a ziplock bag. They’ll keep well for up to three months.
Reheating
Reheat frozen meatballs directly in the air fryer for about 12 minutes until thoroughly warmed and crispy, ensuring no microwave dryness.
FAQs
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Can I use turkey instead of chicken?
Yes, ground turkey can be used as a substitute for chicken, offering a similar texture and flavor profile.
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Are there gluten-free breadcrumb options?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to transform the dish into a gluten-friendly delight.
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What sauce pairs best with these meatballs?
Marinara or a creamy Alfredo sauce makes for a delectable pairing with these savory meatballs.
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How do I prevent the meatballs from sticking to the air fryer basket?
Lining the basket with foil or lightly spraying it with cooking oil can help prevent sticking.
Final Thoughts
I hope you enjoy making and devouring these Air Fryer Chicken Meatballs With Parmesan as much as I do. They’re a hit any night of the week and sure to become a staple in your recipe collection!
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, Italian-inspired
Description
These crispy and flavorful Air Fryer Chicken Meatballs with Parmesan are a quick and healthy appetizer or main course option. Juicy ground chicken is mixed with herbs and cheese, then perfectly cooked in the air fryer to achieve a browned exterior and tender interior, served with marinara sauce for dipping.
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, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, olive oil, and parsley. Mix until well incorporated.
- Form Meatballs: Using a heaping tablespoon of the mixture, shape into balls and place them on a parchment-lined sheet. This recipe yields about 24 meatballs.
- Preheat Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Lightly spray the basket with cooking oil or line with foil.
- Cook Meatballs: Place the meatballs in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Air fry for 10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until browned and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F).
- Serve: Remove the meatballs and serve immediately with marinara sauce for dipping. Optional: warm all cooked meatballs in the air fryer for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- Store – Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave.
- Freeze – Freeze uncooked or cooked meatballs on a parchment-lined sheet, then transfer to a ziplock bag for up to 3 months.
- From frozen – Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for about 12 minutes until heated through and cooked to 165°F internal temperature.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 meatballs (about 84 g)
- Calories: 211 kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 380 mg
- Fat: 12.3 g
- Saturated Fat: 3.4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7.3 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 5.5 g
- Fiber: 0.3 g
- Protein: 20.4 g
- Cholesterol: 66 mg
