These Air Fryer Asian Meatballs are crispy on the outside while remaining tender and juicy on the inside. The combination of soy sauce, hoisin sauce, and sesame oil gives the meatballs a savory, slightly sweet flavor profile that pairs perfectly with the crunchy sesame seeds and fresh cilantro garnish. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, snack, or main dish, these meatballs are a surefire crowd-pleaser.
These meatballs are not only packed with bold, delicious flavors but also come together in a matter of minutes thanks to the air fryer! They’re perfect for anyone looking for a healthy, quick meal that doesn’t compromise on taste. The light, crispy texture makes them irresistible, and the dipping sauce options are endless—serve them with your favorite Asian-style dipping sauces for an extra kick!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground chicken (or turkey)
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup green onions, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
Directions:
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, green onions, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, sesame oil, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, red pepper flakes, black pepper, and salt.
- Mix well until the ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Form the mixture into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter.
- Place the meatballs in the air fryer basket, leaving space between each one.
- Air fry for 12-15 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and golden brown.
- Remove from the air fryer and garnish with fresh cilantro and sesame seeds before serving.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
Kcal: 180 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Air Fryer Asian Meatballs: A Quick and Flavorful Dish
If you’re looking for a healthy, delicious, and easy-to-make meal, these Air Fryer Asian Meatballs are the perfect choice! Packed with savory Asian-inspired flavors and cooked to crispy perfection in the air fryer, these meatballs make a great dinner, snack, or appetizer. Made with ground chicken (or turkey), garlic, ginger, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, and a few other simple ingredients, they’re light, tasty, and ready in just 25 minutes!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These air fryer meatballs are a great way to enjoy the crispy texture of fried food without the added oil and calories. The air fryer gives them a beautifully golden and crispy outer layer while keeping the inside juicy and tender. Plus, they’re packed with all the bold flavors of ginger, garlic, soy sauce, and hoisin sauce, making each bite a savory delight.
What makes this recipe even better is how customizable it is! You can easily swap the ground chicken for ground turkey, pork, or even a plant-based protein for a vegan option. Want to add a little more heat? Simply increase the amount of red pepper flakes or toss them in chili sauce. You can also adjust the sweetness by adding more hoisin sauce or a drizzle of honey if you prefer a sweeter taste.
Quick and Easy to Prepare
One of the best things about these Air Fryer Asian Meatballs is how quickly they come together. In just about 25 minutes, you can have crispy, juicy meatballs that are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Here’s how to make them:
Perfect for Meal Prep
These Air Fryer Asian Meatballs are not only delicious but also perfect for meal prepping! You can make a big batch ahead of time and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days, or freeze them for longer storage. Simply reheat them in the air fryer or microwave when you’re ready to enjoy them again. They’re great for quick lunches, dinners, or even snacks.
Great for Special Diets
If you’re following a keto, gluten-free, or low-carb diet, these meatballs are a great fit. The recipe is naturally gluten-free and low in carbs, and the air fryer method cuts down on the need for extra oil. You can enjoy them as a protein-packed meal without worrying about extra fats or calories.
Pairing Suggestions
These meatballs pair wonderfully with a variety of sides. Serve them with steamed vegetables, rice, or noodles for a complete meal. You can also use them in wraps or salads for a lighter option. If you’re hosting a gathering, they make an excellent appetizer. Serve with a dipping sauce like soy sauce, sweet chili sauce, or even peanut sauce to add another layer of flavor.
A Perfect Party Appetizer
If you’re planning a party or gathering, these Air Fryer Asian Meatballs are an ideal finger food. They’re easy to prepare ahead of time and serve, and they’re sure to be a crowd-pleaser. The sesame seeds and cilantro garnish add a beautiful touch, making them visually appealing and adding an extra burst of flavor.
Perfect for Meal Prep and Leftovers
These Air Fryer Asian Meatballs are great for meal prep! You can make a large batch ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They also freeze well, so you can freeze them in an airtight container or freezer bag for longer storage. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply reheat them in the air fryer or microwave.
They are ideal for busy weeks when you need something quick and easy. Just pair them with your favorite sides, such as steamed vegetables, cauliflower rice, or a salad, and you’ll have a healthy, satisfying meal in no time.
Great for Special Diets
This recipe is naturally low in carbs and gluten-free, making it perfect for those following keto, low-carb, or gluten-free diets. The air fryer method ensures that the meatballs are lower in fat compared to traditional frying, so you can enjoy this dish without feeling guilty. For a fully gluten-free option, make sure to use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour.
Serving Ideas and Pairings
These meatballs are incredibly versatile and can be served in many different ways. Here are some ideas to get you started:
- As an appetizer: Serve them with a dipping sauce like soy sauce, sweet chili sauce, or peanut sauce.
- Over rice or noodles: Pair these meatballs with steamed jasmine rice, brown rice, or noodles for a more filling meal.
- In wraps or bowls: Serve the meatballs in lettuce wraps for a lighter, low-carb option, or make an Asian-inspired grain bowl with veggies and rice.
- On a salad: Toss the meatballs on top of a fresh salad for a protein-packed meal.
Conclusion
In just 25 minutes, you can have a batch of crispy, juicy, and flavorful Air Fryer Asian Meatballs that are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner, a snack, or a crowd-pleasing appetizer, this recipe checks all the boxes. Plus, it’s customizable to fit your dietary needs, whether you’re gluten-free, keto, or just craving a delicious meal!
Give this recipe a try and enjoy these tasty, healthy meatballs. You’ll love how easy they are to make and how full of flavor they are!