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Air fryer chicken meatballs

These juicy air fryer chicken meatballs are tender on the inside, golden on the outside, and ready in just 10 minutes. Perfect for quick dinners, meal prep, or a healthy protein-packed snack.

Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Keyword air fryer chicken meatballs
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 27 minutes
Servings 4 16-20
Cost $6.65

Equipment

  • 1 Air fryer
  • 1 mixing bowl
  • 1 Cookie Scoop
  • 1 Meat Thermometer optional
  • 2 Parchment Paper or Air Fryer Liner

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground chicken breast
  • 1 large egg
  • ½ cup breadcrumbs
  • 2½ tsp whole milk
  • ⅓ cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
  • cup finely grated onion
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • ¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 tsp olive oil (for lean white meat chicken)

Instructions

  • Step 1 :In a large bowl, combine breadcrumbs and milk. Let the mixture sit for 2 minutes.
  • Step 2: Add ground chicken, egg, Parmesan cheese, garlic, onion, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes, and olive oil.
  • Step 3Mix gently until just combined. Do not overmix.
  • Step 4Shape the mixture into 16–20 evenly sized meatballs.
  • Step 5Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
  • Step 6Lightly spray the basket with cooking oil or line it with parchment paper.
  • Step 7: Arrange the meatballs in a single layer, leaving space between them.
  • Step 8Air fry for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through cooking.
  • Step 9Cook until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  • Step 10Serve immediately with marinara sauce, pasta, salad, or your favorite dipping sauce.

Notes

Tips:

  • For extra juicy meatballs, do not skip the milk and breadcrumb mixture (panade).
  • Almond flour can replace breadcrumbs for a low-carb version.
  • Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
  • Freeze cooked meatballs for up to 3 months.

Nutrition (Approximate Per Serving Chicken Meatball)

  • Calories: 290
  • Protein: 29g
  • Carbohydrates: 8g
  • Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 520mg