These Air Fryer Bang Bang Chicken Meatballs are juicy, tender, and full of flavor! Coated in a creamy, spicy sauce, they’re perfect for snacking or as a meal.
Honestly, I can’t stop at just one! They’re quick to whip up and so satisfying. Pair them with some veggies, and you have a tasty dinner in no time! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Chicken: This is the star of the dish, providing a lean option. If you prefer, you can swap it out for ground turkey. It’s slightly different in flavor, but still works well.
Panko Breadcrumbs: These breadcrumbs help make the meatballs crispy. If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs can work, but the texture may be less airy.
Green Onions: They add a fresh crunch. Alternatively, chopped chives or shallots could be used for a different flavor profile.
Mayonnaise: Acts as a base for the Bang Bang sauce. Greek yogurt or an avocado-based mayo can be a healthier alternative, giving a nice creaminess too.
Sriracha: This gives the sauce its heat. If you prefer it milder, you can use ketchup or omit it altogether, or try a milder hot sauce.
What’s the Best Way to Ensure Juicy Meatballs?
The key to juicy meatballs is mixing your ingredients gently. Overworking the mixture can make them tough. Here’s how:
- Combine the ingredients just until mixed. Use your hands or a spoon, but stop as soon as everything is incorporated.
- Form them gently into 1.5-inch balls – don’t pack them too tightly!
- Preheating your air fryer gives them that nice golden crust while keeping the inside juicy.
These tips will help you achieve perfectly cooked meatballs every time! And remember, the Bang Bang sauce is flexible – adjust the flavors to your liking!
Air Fryer Bang Bang Chicken Meatballs Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions (plus extra for garnish)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Cooking spray or oil for air fryer
For the Bang Bang Sauce:
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
- 1-2 teaspoons sriracha (adjust for heat preference)
- 1 teaspoon honey or sugar
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar or lime juice
For Garnish:
- Sesame seeds
- Chopped fresh cilantro
- Chopped green onions
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for prep and 15 minutes for cooking, giving you a total of around 30 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick yet delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Meatball Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, panko breadcrumbs, green onions, minced garlic, chopped cilantro, egg, soy sauce, sesame oil, grated ginger, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until everything is well combined, being careful not to overwork the mixture to keep the meatballs tender.
2. Shape the Meatballs:
Using your hands, form the mixture into 1.5-inch meatballs and place them on a tray or plate while you prepare the air fryer.
3. Preheat the Air Fryer:
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3-5 minutes. This helps the meatballs to cook evenly and get that nice golden color.
4. Prepare the Air Fryer Basket:
Spray or lightly brush the air fryer basket with cooking oil to prevent sticking. Arrange the meatballs in the basket in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd them. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook in batches.
5. Air Fry the Meatballs:
Cook the meatballs in the air fryer at 375°F for 10-12 minutes. Be sure to turn them halfway through cooking to ensure they brown evenly and are cooked through to an internal temperature of 165°F.
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, honey or sugar, and rice vinegar (or lime juice) until smooth and creamy.
7. Coat the Meatballs:
Once the meatballs are fully cooked, transfer them to a large bowl and pour the bang bang sauce over them. Toss gently until the meatballs are evenly coated in the sauce.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Garnish with sesame seeds, extra chopped cilantro, and green onions. Serve the meatballs immediately as an appetizer or with rice and steamed veggies for a satisfying main dish.
Enjoy these crispy, flavorful bang bang chicken meatballs with a creamy spicy kick! They’re sure to be a hit with family and friends!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative and will provide a slightly different flavor and texture to the meatballs. Just make sure to choose lean turkey to keep them from being too dry.
How Can I Make the Sauce Less Spicy?
If you prefer a milder sauce, simply reduce the amount of sriracha or omit it altogether. You can also add a bit more mayonnaise or sweet chili sauce to balance it out without losing creaminess.
Can I Make These Meatballs Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the meatball mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just form the meatballs when ready to cook, or even cook them ahead and reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes when you’re ready to serve.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, air fry again for a few minutes at 350°F until warmed through for the best texture!
