These tasty Air Fryer Firecracker Chicken Meatballs pack a punch with their spicy kick! Made with juicy chicken and a zesty sauce, they’re super fun to eat.
I love making these for game day or movie night. They disappear fast—everyone loves the crunch and flavor! Just make sure to have something to cool your mouth down nearby! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Chicken: This is the base for your meatballs. You can substitute ground turkey or lean ground beef if you prefer a different flavor. I’ve found that chicken yields a lighter texture, which is great for this dish.
Breadcrumbs: Traditional breadcrumbs give meatballs a nice structure. If you need gluten-free options, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed rice cakes. Panko breadcrumbs will also give a crunchier texture and are my favorite for a bit of added crispiness.
Green Onions: These add a fresh flavor. If you don’t have them, chives or finely diced onion will work. I love using green onions for that mild taste and bright color in the meatballs.
Spices: The paprika and red pepper flakes add warmth. Adjust the red pepper flakes based on your spice tolerance. If you want more character, try adding a dash of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika for a smokier flavor.
BBQ Sauce: Feel free to use any BBQ sauce you love, whether it’s tangy, sweet, or spicy. I often go with a honey BBQ for extra sweetness that pairs nicely with the heat from the hot sauce.
How Do I Achieve the Perfectly Cooked Meatballs in the Air Fryer?
Cooking in the air fryer is a fantastic way to get that golden, crispy exterior without frying in oil. Here’s how to get it right:
- Make sure you form evenly sized meatballs, about the size of golf balls. This helps them cook evenly.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket; give them space to allow hot air to circulate.
- Check the internal temperature using a meat thermometer; they should reach 165°F (74°C). This ensures they’re cooked through while staying moist.
For even more flavor, consider lightly spritzing the meatballs with a bit of cooking spray halfway through to boost browning. Enjoy your cooking experience!
How to Make Air Fryer Firecracker Chicken Meatballs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatballs:
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup green onions, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust for spice preference)
For the Sauce:
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce (such as Sriracha or Frank’s RedHot)
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare, with an additional 15 minutes for cooking in the air fryer. So, you’ll be ready to enjoy these spicy meatballs in about 25 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Meatball Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, finely chopped green onions, milk, egg, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, paprika, and red pepper flakes. Mix everything well using your hands or a spoon until all the ingredients are evenly distributed.
2. Preheat the Air Fryer:
Turn on your air fryer and preheat it to 375°F (190°C). Preheating helps to ensure that the meatballs cook evenly and get that nice golden color.
3. Shape the Meatballs:
Using your hands, scoop out portions of the chicken mixture and roll them into golf ball-sized meatballs. Place them in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure to keep some space between each meatball for proper air circulation.
4. Air Fry the Meatballs:
Cook the meatballs in the air fryer for 12-15 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when they are golden brown and have reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). If you’re not sure, using a meat thermometer can help you check.
5. Make the Sauce:
While the meatballs cook, prepare the sauce by mixing the BBQ sauce and hot sauce in a small bowl. This spicy combination will add great flavor to your meatballs!
6. Coat the Meatballs:
Once the meatballs are fully cooked, carefully transfer them to a bowl. Gently toss them in the sauce mixture until they are well coated.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the Firecracker Chicken Meatballs in a bowl, and don’t forget to garnish with chopped parsley for a pop of color. You can also add some toothpicks for easy serving. Dig in and enjoy your tasty creation!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute for ground chicken in this recipe. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as turkey may need a minute or two longer to reach the safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
To make these meatballs gluten-free, simply substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. Ensure your BBQ sauce and hot sauce are also labeled gluten-free.
Can I Freeze the Meatballs Before Cooking?
Yes, you can freeze the uncooked meatballs! Simply shape them, place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, and then transfer them to a zip-top bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Cook from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Meatballs?
Store any leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them if you want to keep them longer. Just make sure to thaw them in the fridge before reheating!
