Air Fryer Chicken Meatballs

Juicy, herby air fryer chicken meatballs — a lighter take on the classic that cooks in about 12 minutes. Ground chicken stays tender in the air fryer, with golden, roasted edges and a bright hit of fresh cilantro and garlic.
They're endlessly versatile: toss with pasta and sauce, stuff into a pita, drop onto a grain bowl, or serve with a dip. Meal-prep friendly and freezer-friendly too.
Ingredients
Instructions
Mix
Combine all the ingredients until just blended — don't overmix, which toughens the meatballs.
Shape
Roll into 1½-inch balls and place in a greased basket in a single layer.
Air fry
Spray lightly with oil and air fry at 400°F for about 10–12 minutes, shaking halfway, until golden and cooked to 165°F.
- Ground chicken is sticky — wet your hands to roll the meatballs easily.
- Don't overmix; stop as soon as everything is combined.
- Swap cilantro for parsley or basil to change the flavor.
Frequently asked
How long do chicken meatballs take in the air fryer?
About 10–12 minutes at 400°F, shaking once, until golden and cooked to 165°F.
How do I keep chicken meatballs from drying out?
Use breadcrumbs and egg as binders, don't overmix, and pull them right at 165°F.
Can I freeze them?
Yes — cooked or raw. Air fry frozen cooked meatballs for a few minutes to reheat.

