These Air Fryer Bang Bang Chicken Meatballs are a tasty treat! They’re juicy, flavorful, and perfectly crispy on the outside, plus they come with a zesty bang bang sauce that makes them extra special.
Making these meatballs is a breeze! I love how quick the air fryer cooks them, and you can serve them as a snack or a hearty meal. Trust me, they’ll vanish in no time! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Chicken: This is the base of your meatballs. If you prefer, ground turkey or pork can be substituted for chicken, or you can use plant-based meat for a vegetarian option.
Panko Breadcrumbs: Panko gives a lovely crunch. If you’re out, regular breadcrumbs work, but they may not be as crispy. Gluten-free breadcrumbs are a great swap if you need to avoid gluten.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds brightness. If you’re not a fan, parsley works well as a substitute, or you can skip it entirely!
Sriracha: For some spice, but you can adjust the amount to your liking. If you want a milder option, try using a milder hot sauce or omit it altogether.
Bang Bang Sauce: This sauce is creamy and tangy! You can use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a lighter version, and add a little honey if you like it sweeter.
What’s the Best Way to Ensure Meatballs are Cooked Evenly in an Air Fryer?
Cooking meatballs in an air fryer can be a game-changer for getting that perfect crisp outside while keeping them juicy inside. Here’s how to do it right:
- Preheat your air fryer for even cooking; this helps them start browning right away.
- Make sure to arrange the meatballs in a single layer, with space between them. This allows the hot air to circulate, ensuring even cooking.
- Halfway through, give the basket a shake or turn the meatballs to further promote even browning.
- Check the internal temperature; it should reach 165°F (75°C) for safety.
Cooking times can vary by air fryer, so keep an eye on them to achieve that golden perfection!
How to Make Air Fryer Bang Bang Chicken Meatballs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb (450g) ground chicken
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh cilantro (plus extra for garnish)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 inch piece fresh ginger, grated
- 2 green onions, finely chopped
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1 tsp sriracha (optional, for a bit of heat)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Cooking spray or a little oil for greasing the air fryer basket
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp sweet chili sauce
- 1 tbsp sriracha (adjust to taste for spice)
- 1 tsp rice vinegar or lime juice
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe should take about 15 minutes to prepare, followed by around 10-12 minutes of cooking time in the air fryer. With a total of around 30 minutes, you’ll have delicious Bang Bang Chicken Meatballs ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Meatball Mixture:
In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, panko breadcrumbs, chopped cilantro, minced garlic, grated ginger, green onions, beaten egg, soy sauce, sesame oil, sriracha (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix everything together thoroughly until well-combined. Don’t be afraid to get your hands in there!
2. Form the Meatballs:
Using your hands or a spoon, form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. This should give you around 16 to 20 meatballs. Make sure they’re all around the same size for even cooking.
3. Preheat the Air Fryer:
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3-5 minutes. This step helps the meatballs start cooking right and get nice and crispy. Lightly spray or brush the air fryer basket with cooking oil to prevent sticking.
4. Cook the Meatballs:
Carefully place the meatballs in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure to leave some space between them for air circulation. You may need to work in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.
5. Air Fry the Meatballs:
Cook the meatballs for 10-12 minutes. Halfway through the cooking time, shake the basket or turn the meatballs to ensure they brown evenly on all sides.
6. Make the Bang Bang Sauce:
While the meatballs are cooking, prepare the bang bang sauce. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and rice vinegar (or lime juice). Taste and adjust the sriracha based on how spicy you want it!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the meatballs are cooked through and golden brown, transfer them to a serving plate. You can drizzle the bang bang sauce over the meatballs or serve it on the side for dipping. Garnish with extra chopped cilantro for a fresh touch.
Enjoy your crispy and flavorful Bang Bang Chicken Meatballs as an appetizer or a delightful snack!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey works great in this recipe. It may be a bit leaner than chicken, so your meatballs might be slightly less juicy, but they will still be delicious!
How Can I Store Leftover Meatballs?
Store any leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can easily reheat them in the air fryer for a quick snack or meal—just warm them at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes until heated through.
Can I Prepare the Meatball Mixture Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Mix the meatball ingredients together and cover them with plastic wrap in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking. This way, you can save time when you’re ready to air fry them!
What Can I Serve with Bang Bang Chicken Meatballs?
These meatballs are fantastic as a standalone snack or appetizer. You can serve them with rice, in a lettuce wrap, or alongside a fresh salad for a lighter meal. The bang bang sauce makes them versatile for various pairings!
