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A close-up of glossy glazed Air Fryer Firecracker Chicken Meatballs garnished with parsley, topped with toothpicks, and a hint of chili flakes for extra flavor.

Firecracker Chicken Meatballs

These juicy Firecracker Chicken Meatballs are the perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and savory, especially with the zesty firecracker sauce!
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Course: Appetizer, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Fusion
Keyword: air fryer meatballs, appetizer recipes, chicken meatballs, firecracker chicken meatballs, party appetizers, spicy meatballs
Prep Time: 18 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Air fry time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 42 minutes
Servings: 6
Calories: 548kcal
Cost: $8

Ingredients

For the Meatballs

  • 2 tablespoon olive oil for greasing
  • 3 cloves garlic minced for flavor
  • 1 tablespoon chives minced (optional for garnish)
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder for flavor
  • ¾ teaspoon black pepper for seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika adds smokiness
  • 2 large eggs lightly beaten for binding
  • 2 lbs ground chicken or ground turkey protein base
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs for texture
  • ½ cup shredded Parmesan cheese for flavor and moisture
  • 2 tablespoon minced parsley optional for garnish

For the Firecracker Sauce

  • ¾ cup packed light brown sugar for sweetness
  • ½ cup hot sauce Franks recommended for spice
  • 2 tablespoon apple cider vinegar for acidity
  • 1 tablespoon light soy sauce for saltiness
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder for flavor
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt for seasoning
  • ½– 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes adjust to desired heat level

Instructions

  • In a small saucepan, combine all the firecracker sauce ingredients (brown sugar, hot sauce, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, garlic powder, salt, and red pepper flakes). Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens and combines, about 7-10 minutes.
  • Remove from heat and let it cool. The sauce will thicken further as it cools; if it becomes too thick, add a teaspoon of water at a time until it reaches the desired consistency.
  • In a large mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, minced garlic, chives, salt, onion powder, pepper, smoked paprika, and beaten eggs.
  • Add the ground chicken, panko breadcrumbs, and Parmesan cheese. Mix gently with your hands until combined, being careful not to overmix.
  • Preheat your air fryer to 400°F.
  • Using a cookie scoop or your hands, shape the meat mixture into meatballs, each about 2 inches in diameter.
  • Spray the air fryer basket with nonstick cooking spray (olive oil or avocado oil recommended). Place the meatballs in a single layer. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook in batches.
  • Spray the meatballs with additional nonstick spray and air fry at 400°F for 10 minutes. After 10 minutes, flip the meatballs using tongs, spray them with more oil, and air fry for an additional 5-7 minutes.
  • Check for doneness using an instant-read thermometer. The meatballs are done when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
  • Once cooked, dip each meatball into the firecracker sauce and return it to the air fryer basket. Repeat for all meatballs.
  • Air fry for an additional 2 minutes to set the glaze.
  • Remove and serve, garnished with parsley, if desired.

Notes

Perfect for parties or a fun family dinner. The firecracker sauce adds an irresistible punch to these tender meatballs.

Nutrition

Serving: 1Serving | Calories: 548kcal | Carbohydrates: 44g | Protein: 29g | Fat: 28g | Saturated Fat: 8g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 12g | Cholesterol: 150mg | Sodium: 1000mg | Potassium: 500mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 23g | Vitamin A: 6IU | Vitamin C: 10mg | Calcium: 10mg | Iron: 15mg