Air Fryer Chicken Meatballs: 5 Reasons You’ll Love Them

By:

Christina R. Jones

June 22, 2025

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If you’re looking for a quick, delicious meal that the whole family will love, let me tell you about my Air Fryer Chicken Meatballs! They’re not only juicy and flavorful, but they also come together in no time – perfect for those hectic weeknights when you want something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. I whip these up whenever I need a little comfort food fix, and they never disappoint!

Just the other night, we had a family movie marathon, and I made a big batch of these meatballs. The aroma filled the house as they cooked, and my kids couldn’t wait to dig in. We ended up serving them with marinara sauce for dipping, and I swear, they vanished within minutes! It’s such a joy to see everyone happily munching away while sharing laughs and stories. Trust me, once you get the hang of these meatballs, they’ll become a staple in your dinner rotation. So, let’s dive right into how to make these tasty little bites that are sure to impress!

Air Fryer Chicken Meatballs - detail 1

Ingredients for Air Fryer Chicken Meatballs

To whip up these delightful Air Fryer Chicken Meatballs, you’ll need the following ingredients:

1 lb ground chicken
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup chopped parsley
1 egg
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp Italian seasoning

These ingredients work together beautifully, creating juicy meatballs that are packed with flavor. You can adjust the parsley or even throw in some red pepper flakes if you’re feeling adventurous. The sky’s the limit when it comes to making these your own!

How to Prepare Air Fryer Chicken Meatballs

Making Air Fryer Chicken Meatballs is a breeze, and I’ll walk you through each step so you can enjoy these tasty bites in no time! Get ready to create a dish that not only satisfies your cravings but also brings everyone to the table for a delicious meal.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Gather your ingredients: Start by pulling together all the ingredients listed. It’ll make the process smoother and quicker. Trust me, having everything at hand helps keep the chaos at bay!
Mix the ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, egg, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. I like to use my hands for this part; it really helps to get everything mixed together evenly. Don’t be afraid to get your hands in there!
Form the meatballs: Once the mixture is well combined, start rolling it into small meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. You should get around 16 meatballs from this batch. If you find the mixture is a bit sticky, wet your hands with a little water to make it easier to handle.
Preheat the air fryer: Set your air fryer to preheat at 375°F (190°C) for about 3-5 minutes. Preheating is key to getting that perfect crispiness on your meatballs!
Arrange the meatballs: Once preheated, carefully place the meatballs in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Make sure there’s some space between them so they cook evenly. If you have a smaller air fryer, you might need to do this in batches.
Cook to perfection: Cook the meatballs for 12-15 minutes, turning them halfway through the cooking time. This ensures they cook evenly and get that lovely golden-brown color all around. Keep an eye on them; they should be cooked through and have an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) when done.
Serve and enjoy: Once they’re done, carefully remove the meatballs from the air fryer. Serve them warm with marinara sauce for dipping or toss them in your favorite sauce. Get ready for the compliments to roll in!

And there you have it! A straightforward, easy-to-follow process that results in juicy, flavorful chicken meatballs that the whole family will love. You’ll be amazed at how quickly they disappear from the table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are so many reasons to adore these Air Fryer Chicken Meatballs! Here are just a few:

Quick Preparation: You can have these meatballs ready in just 30 minutes, making them perfect for busy weeknights.
Healthy Ingredients: With ground chicken, fresh herbs, and minimal added fat, these meatballs are a guilt-free option for the whole family.
Great Flavor: The combination of garlic, Parmesan, and Italian seasoning creates a savory taste that everyone will love.
Versatile: Serve them with marinara sauce, toss them in your favorite BBQ sauce, or put them on top of a salad – the possibilities are endless!
Kid-Friendly: These meatballs are a hit with kids! They’re fun to eat and can be dipped in various sauces.

Once you try them, I promise they’ll become a go-to recipe in your kitchen!

Tips for Success

To ensure your Air Fryer Chicken Meatballs turn out perfectly every time, here are some tried-and-true tips that I swear by!

Keep it moist: Ground chicken can be a bit lean, so don’t skip the breadcrumbs and Parmesan! They help retain moisture, giving you juicy meatballs. If you want an even richer flavor, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or some chopped sun-dried tomatoes.
Chill the mixture: After mixing your ingredients, let the meatball mixture rest in the fridge for about 15 minutes. This helps firm up the mixture, making it easier to form and ensuring they hold their shape while cooking.
Don’t overcrowd the air fryer: Give your meatballs some breathing room! Cooking them in batches if needed will help them crisp up nicely without steaming.
Check for doneness: Always use a meat thermometer to check that your meatballs reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This guarantees they’re fully cooked and safe to eat.
Experiment with spices: Feel free to play around with the seasonings! Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat or swap in fresh herbs like basil or cilantro for a twist.

These little tips will help you create the ultimate chicken meatballs that are not only delicious but also a hit with everyone at the table!

Nutritional Information for Air Fryer Chicken Meatballs

When it comes to enjoying these Air Fryer Chicken Meatballs, it’s nice to know what you’re putting in your body. Below are the estimated nutritional values per serving, which consists of about four meatballs:

Calories: 200
Protein: 20g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 7g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 10g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 300mg
Cholesterol: 80mg

Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients used, especially if you decide to tweak the recipe by adding or substituting ingredients. But rest assured, you’re still treating yourself to a delicious meal that’s packed with protein and flavor!

FAQ about Air Fryer Chicken Meatballs

Got questions about making these tasty Air Fryer Chicken Meatballs? No worries! Here are some common queries I’ve encountered – and my answers to help you out.

Q: How long do I cook the meatballs in the air fryer?
A: For perfectly cooked meatballs, you’ll want to air fry them at 375°F (190°C) for about 12-15 minutes. Just remember to turn them halfway through for that even, golden-brown finish!
Q: Can I use ground turkey or beef instead of chicken?
A: Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey or even lean beef if you prefer. Just keep in mind that the cooking time may vary slightly depending on the type of meat you use.
Q: What should I do if the meatball mixture is too sticky?
A: If you find the mixture sticking to your hands, try wetting them with a little water before rolling the meatballs. This makes it much easier to form them without making a mess!
Q: How should I store leftovers?
A: Store any leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They make for a quick snack or meal prep option the next day!
Q: Can I freeze the meatballs?
A: Yes, you can! I recommend freezing them after cooking. Just let them cool completely, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll last for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just reheat in the air fryer or oven until warmed through!

These tips should help you tackle any issues that come up while making these delicious Air Fryer Chicken Meatballs. Enjoy your cooking adventure!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Storing your leftover Air Fryer Chicken Meatballs is super simple! Just place them in an airtight container and pop them in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days, ready for you to enjoy anytime. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Let the meatballs cool completely, then put them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer!

When you’re ready to reheat, the air fryer is your best friend! Just set it to 350°F (175°C) and heat the meatballs for about 5-7 minutes until they’re warmed through. You can also use the oven at the same temperature, placing them on a baking sheet for about 10 minutes. This way, they’ll retain their delicious texture and flavor. Enjoy those tasty bites whenever you please!

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to enjoying your Air Fryer Chicken Meatballs, the possibilities are endless! For a classic pairing, serve them with a warm marinara sauce for dipping – it’s a match made in heaven! You can also toss them in BBQ sauce for a sweet and tangy twist that’s perfect for game day. If you’re looking for something lighter, try serving them over a fresh salad with your favorite greens, cherry tomatoes, and a drizzle of balsamic vinaigrette. And don’t forget about pasta! These meatballs are fantastic on a bed of spaghetti or nestled in a sub roll with melted cheese. No matter how you choose to enjoy them, they’re sure to elevate your meal experience!