Description
Create oil-free, crispy chicken meatballs with a juicy center in minutes using an air fryer. These easy-to-make, international-style protein bites are perfect for crunch lovers and require minimal cleanup with just one mixing bowl.
Ingredients
1 lb ground chicken (90% lean)
1 large egg or 2 chia eggs (for substitution)
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (use gluten-free or oat flour)
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tbsp olive oil (for brushing)
Optional: 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes for extra heat
Instructions
Combine ground chicken, egg, breadcrumbs, spices, and olive oil in a bowl
Chill mixture for 15 minutes to firm proteins
Roll mixture into 1-inch balls using 1 tbsp per meatball
Line air fryer basket with parchment paper and arrange meatballs 1 inch apart
Brush tops with olive oil
Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3 minutes
Air fry for 10-12 minutes, shaking basket halfway
Insert thermometer to check for 165°F (74°C) internal temperature
Notes
For halal/vegetarian option: Use chia eggs (2 tbsp chia seeds + 2 tbsp water) and gluten-free breadcrumbs
Flash-freeze meatballs on parchment before air frying for even results
Use a light hand when shaping to maintain crispiness
Don’t skip preheating the air fryer for optimal browning
Meatballs can be frozen after shaping (use airtight container) for month-long storage
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 meatball
- Calories: 67
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 2.5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 0.3g
- Protein: 8.5g
- Cholesterol: 35mg