Why Make This Recipe
Air fryer chipotle chicken meatballs are a tasty and easy meal option. They are quick to prepare and cook, making them perfect for busy weeknights or a weekend get-together. The combination of ground chicken and chipotle chiles gives these meatballs a flavorful kick without needing a lot of prep work. Plus, cooking them in an air fryer helps ensure they are crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside.
How to Make Air Fryer Chipotle Chicken Meatballs
Ingredients
- 1 lb. ground chicken (93% lean)
- 3/4 c. panko bread crumbs
- 1/4 c. chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp. finely chopped chipotle chiles in adobo sauce, plus 2 tsp. sauce
- 3/4 tsp. dried oregano
- 3/4 tsp. kosher salt
- 1/4 tsp. freshly ground black pepper
- Olive oil cooking spray
- Salsa verde, for serving
Directions
- In a medium bowl, use your hands to mix ground chicken, panko, cilantro, egg, garlic, chipotle chiles, sauce, oregano, salt, and pepper until everything is combined well.
- Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls.
- Lightly coat your air fryer basket with olive oil cooking spray.
- Working in batches, arrange the meatballs in the basket, leaving about 1/2 inch space between them.
- Cook at 370°F, turning the meatballs a few times, until the outside is golden brown and the centers are fully cooked, about 6 minutes.
- Arrange the cooked meatballs on a platter and spoon salsa verde over the top or serve it on the side for dipping.
How to Serve Air Fryer Chipotle Chicken Meatballs
These meatballs can be served as a main dish or as an appetizer. You can place them on a platter with salsa verde for dipping. They also go well with rice or in a tortilla for a tasty wrap. Consider adding a side salad or roasted vegetables to complete your meal.
How to Store Air Fryer Chipotle Chicken Meatballs
To store leftover meatballs, let them cool completely and place them in an airtight container. They can stay in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the cooked meatballs. Just place them in a freezer-safe bag or container; they will last for up to 3 months.
Tips to Make Air Fryer Chipotle Chicken Meatballs
- Ensure your air fryer is preheated before adding the meatballs for the best results.
- Adjust the amount of chipotle chiles based on your heat preference; you can use less for a milder flavor.
- Keep the meatballs uniform in size to ensure they cook evenly.
Variation
You can change up the recipe by adding different herbs or spices, such as parsley or cumin, to give the meatballs a different flavor. You can also substitute ground turkey or beef if you prefer a different meat option.
FAQs
Q1: Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatball mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking.
Q2: Can I cook these meatballs in the oven?
Yes! If you don’t have an air fryer, you can bake them in the oven at 375°F for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Q3: What can I serve with these meatballs?
They pair well with rice, tortillas, or a fresh salad. You can also serve them with a side of guacamole for extra flavor.
