If you’re looking for a deliciously crispy appetizer or a fun twist on dinner, let me introduce you to Air Fryer Bang Bang Chicken Meatballs. These golden-brown bites are bursting with flavor, thanks to their seasoned chicken base and a drizzle of sweet, tangy, and creamy Bang Bang Sauce. Whether you’re whipping these up for a party or a quick family meal, you’ll fall in love with how easy and versatile they are. Bonus: they’re cooked in an air fryer, which means less oil but all the crispiness you crave. Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Who doesn’t love a dish that’s as easy to prepare as it is tasty? These meatballs are:

Quick and Convenient: Perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute guests.
Healthier: Cooking in the air fryer means less oil and guilt-free indulgence.
Versatile: Serve them as an appetizer, pair them with rice for a meal, or add them to your favorite salad.

I first tried these when experimenting with a healthier take on traditional fried meatballs. One bite, and I was hooked! The combination of crispy chicken and that creamy, spicy-sweet sauce is seriously irresistible.

Let’s Start Cooking: Prepping the Meatball Mixture

To kick things off, gather your ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need for the meatballs:

Ground Chicken: Organic or your preferred choice.
Seasonings: Garlic salt, seasoned pepper, and parsley for flavor.
Fresh Ingredients: Finely chopped onion and minced garlic add moisture and depth.
Binders: One egg and crushed Ritz crackers hold it all together.
A Sweet Touch: A splash of teriyaki sauce for that perfect umami kick.

Step 1: Mixing the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, use a fork to gently break apart the ground chicken. Sprinkle in garlic salt, seasoned pepper, and parsley, ensuring they’re evenly distributed. Next, toss in the chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, crushed Ritz crackers, and teriyaki sauce. Give it all a good mix until the ingredients are well combined. Pro tip: don’t overmix! Keeping it light ensures tender, juicy meatballs.

Step 2: Shaping the Meatballs

Using a spoon or your hands (a scoop works wonders here), shape the mixture into evenly sized meatballs, roughly 1½ inches in diameter. This size ensures they cook through perfectly in the air fryer.

Step 3: Prepping the Air Fryer

Lightly spray the basket of your air fryer with olive oil to prevent sticking. Arrange the meatballs in a single layer, ensuring they don’t touch—air circulation is key to getting that crispy exterior.

Step 4: Cooking Time!

Set your air fryer to 400°F and let it do its magic. Cook the meatballs for 12 minutes, flipping them halfway through for even browning. Don’t forget to give them another spritz of olive oil after flipping to enhance that golden finish.

Creating the Bang Bang Sauce: Sweet, Tangy, and Irresistible

Ingredients for the Sauce:

Greek Yogurt: Adds creaminess and keeps it lighter than traditional mayonnaise-based sauces.
Sweet Chili Sauce: The star of the show, lending that sweet heat.
Fresh Parsley: For a hint of freshness and a pop of color.

Step 5: Mixing the Sauce

In a medium-sized bowl, combine ¼ cup of Greek yogurt with ½ cup of sweet chili sauce. Stir until the mixture is silky and smooth. Toss in the chopped parsley and mix again. The result? A sauce so good, you’ll want to eat it by the spoonful (no judgment here).

Step 6: Coating the Meatballs

While the meatballs are still warm, place them in a large bowl and pour the Bang Bang Sauce over them. Gently toss until each meatball is evenly coated. The sauce clings beautifully to the crispy exterior, creating a perfect balance of texture and flavor.

Step 7: Garnish and Plate

Transfer the saucy meatballs to a serving platter and sprinkle them with a bit more parsley for garnish. Not only does this add a touch of freshness, but it also makes the dish look irresistible.

Serving Suggestions: Endless Possibilities

These Air Fryer Bang Bang Chicken Meatballs are as versatile as they are delicious. Here are some of my favorite ways to serve them:

As an Appetizer: Stick toothpicks in each meatball for a crowd-friendly party snack. Pair them with extra Bang Bang Sauce on the side for dipping.
Over Rice: Serve the meatballs atop a bed of steamed white or jasmine rice, letting the sauce drizzle down into the grains for a flavorful meal.
With a Salad: Add the meatballs to a crisp, fresh salad for a lighter yet satisfying dinner. A mix of greens, cucumbers, and shredded carrots pairs beautifully.
In a Wrap: Stuff the meatballs and sauce into a warm tortilla with shredded lettuce and julienned veggies for a quick and tasty wrap.

Pro Tips for Perfect Meatballs Every Time

Check the Temperature: Ensure the meatballs are fully cooked by using a meat thermometer. They should reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
Don’t Overcrowd the Air Fryer: Overlapping meatballs can lead to uneven cooking. If you’re making a large batch, cook in multiple rounds.
Customize the Spice: For those who love a bit more heat, add a splash of sriracha or a pinch of chili flakes to the Bang Bang Sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I bake these meatballs instead of using an air fryer?

Absolutely! Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Arrange the meatballs in a single layer and bake for 20-25 minutes, turning them halfway through. They won’t be quite as crispy as air-fried, but they’ll still be delicious!

Q2: What can I use instead of Ritz crackers?

If you don’t have Ritz crackers, try using breadcrumbs, crushed saltines, or even panko for a similar texture. Gluten-free breadcrumbs also work great for those with dietary restrictions.

Q3: Is the Bang Bang Sauce spicy?

The sauce has a mild, sweet heat from the chili sauce, but it’s not overly spicy. If you prefer a spicier kick, mix in some sriracha or cayenne pepper.

Q4: Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the meatballs and refrigerate them (uncooked) for up to 24 hours. Alternatively, cook them and store in the fridge, then reheat and toss in the sauce just before serving.

Q5: How do I store and reheat leftovers?

Store any leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes to revive their crispiness. If already coated in sauce, you can microwave them gently, though they’ll lose a bit of crunch.

Q6: Can I freeze these meatballs?

Yes, you can freeze the cooked meatballs (before adding the sauce) for up to 3 months. Reheat them in the air fryer or oven, then coat with fresh Bang Bang Sauce just before serving.

Q7: Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Of course! Replace the Greek yogurt in the sauce with a dairy-free alternative like coconut yogurt or vegan mayo.

Creative Twists to Try

Swap the Protein: Try ground turkey or even plant-based ground meat for a unique spin.
Make it a Slider: Serve the meatballs in small buns with extra Bang Bang Sauce for a fun party treat.
Asian-Inspired Flair: Add a sprinkle of sesame seeds or a drizzle of soy sauce for an umami boost.

Conclusion: Your New Favorite Recipe Awaits!

There’s something magical about the combination of crispy, juicy chicken meatballs and the sweet, tangy Bang Bang Sauce. It’s a dish that checks every box—easy, versatile, and absolutely delicious. Whether you’re serving these up as a party appetizer or making them the star of your dinner, they’re guaranteed to be a hit.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your air fryer, roll up those sleeves, and get cooking! Don’t forget to share your creations—I’d love to hear how you enjoyed these meatballs or any fun twists you tried. Leave a comment below or tag me on social media with your mouthwatering photos.

Happy cooking, and enjoy every bite of these Air Fryer Bang Bang Chicken Meatballs!

AIR FRYER BANG BANG CHICKEN MEATBALLS

Author: Mark's Recipe
Total Time: 30 mins

Print Recipe

Description

These air fryer chicken meatballs are packed with savory flavors and coated in a sweet and tangy bang bang sauce. Perfect as an appetizer, snack, or served over rice for a quick meal. The air fryer ensures they’re crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, while the sauce adds a delightful kick.

Instructions

1️⃣ Prepare the meatball mixture:
In a large bowl, add the ground chicken and separate it with a fork. Sprinkle with garlic salt, seasoned pepper, and parsley. Mix to combine.

2️⃣ Incorporate additional ingredients:
Stir in the chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, crushed Ritz crackers, and teriyaki sauce. Mix until all ingredients are well-blended.

3️⃣ Form the meatballs:
Using your hands or a scoop, shape the mixture into meatballs about 1½ inches in diameter.

4️⃣ Cook in the air fryer:
Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil. Place the meatballs in a single layer in the basket, ensuring they don’t touch. Spray the tops with olive oil.

Set the air fryer to 400°F and cook for 12 minutes.

At the 6-minute mark, turn the meatballs and spray again with olive oil.

Ensure they’re golden brown and cooked through (no pink inside). If needed, cook for an additional 4 minutes.

5️⃣ Make the bang bang sauce:
In a medium bowl, combine Greek yogurt and sweet chili sauce. Stir until smooth and creamy.

6️⃣ Coat the meatballs:
Once the meatballs are done, toss them in the sauce until evenly coated. Sprinkle with chopped parsley for garnish.

7️⃣ Serve and enjoy:
Serve immediately as an appetizer, over rice, or with a side salad.

Notes

For extra heat, add a teaspoon of sriracha to the bang bang sauce.
These meatballs can be made ahead of time and reheated in the air fryer for 3–5 minutes at 375°F.
For a gluten-free option, substitute Ritz crackers with gluten-free breadcrumbs.

Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 12–16 mins

Mark's recipes