Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan Meatballs Recipe
These Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan Meatballs are a delicious and healthier twist on the classic Italian favorite. Made with lean ground chicken breast, Italian seasoning, and topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella, these meatballs are perfect as an appetizer or served over pasta for a hearty meal. Cooking in the air fryer gives them a crispy exterior with juicy, tender insides without the added oil of frying.
- Author: Cleo
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 14 minutes
- Total Time: 24 minutes
- Yield: 9 meatballs (serves 3-4) 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Low Fat
Meatballs
- 1 lb ground chicken breast
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 1 Tbsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp ground black pepper
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese
Toppings
- 3/4 cup marinara sauce
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Mix ingredients: In a small mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, egg, Italian seasoning, and ground black pepper thoroughly until evenly mixed.
- Prepare air fryer basket: Line the air fryer basket with a piece of parchment paper or spray it with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking during cooking.
- Form meatballs: Roll the chicken mixture into nine evenly sized meatballs, each about 2 inches in diameter.
- Arrange meatballs: Place the meatballs in a single layer inside the air fryer basket, making sure to leave space between each one for even cooking. Note that you should not preheat the air fryer for this recipe.
- Cook meatballs: Cook the meatballs at 350°F for 12 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time to ensure even browning.
- Add sauce and cheese: After 12 minutes, spoon marinara sauce over each meatball and sprinkle with shredded mozzarella cheese. Continue cooking at 350°F for an additional 2 minutes to melt the cheese.
- Serve: Remove the meatballs from the air fryer and serve them over noodles, in a hoagie bun, on sliders, or as a tasty appetizer.
Notes
- Do not preheat the air fryer for this recipe; start cooking with the cold basket.
- Using lean ground chicken keeps the meatballs light but ensures they remain juicy and tender.
- Feel free to substitute Italian seasoning with your preferred herbs for a different flavor profile.
- These meatballs can be served in various ways: over pasta, inside a sandwich, or as finger food at gatherings.
- Ensure the meatballs are spaced out in the air fryer basket for optimal air circulation and even cooking.
Keywords: air fryer chicken meatballs, chicken parmesan, easy chicken meatballs, Italian meatballs, air fryer recipes, healthy meatballs