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- 1 lb ground chicken - 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably seasoned) - 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning - 1/2 teaspoon salt - 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper - 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese - 1 egg, beaten - 1 tablespoon olive oil These ingredients are key for making tender and juicy meatballs. The ground chicken keeps them light, while the breadcrumbs add texture. Fresh Parmesan gives a rich flavor, and the mozzarella adds a melty surprise inside. - Fresh basil leaves Basil adds a fresh touch to your dish. It looks nice and enhances the flavor. You can sprinkle some on top before serving for a pop of color. - Italian seasoning - Garlic powder - Salt - Black pepper These seasonings work well together. Italian seasoning brings an herby taste, while garlic powder adds depth. Don’t skip the salt and black pepper; they help balance the flavors in your meatballs. Start by grabbing a large mixing bowl. Add 1 pound of ground chicken. Next, toss in 1 cup of breadcrumbs. Seasoned breadcrumbs work best. Add 1/2 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Then, sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of garlic powder and 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Don’t forget 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. Finally, add 1 beaten egg. Use your hands or a spatula to mix everything well. You want a smooth, cohesive mixture. Now it’s time to mold the meatballs. Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (190°C). This step is key for perfect cooking. Fill a small bowl with water. Moisten your hands lightly to help prevent sticking. Take about 2 tablespoons of the chicken mixture. Flatten it gently into a disc shape in your palm. Place 1 tablespoon of shredded mozzarella cheese in the center. Carefully wrap the chicken mixture around the cheese. Make sure it’s fully enclosed with no gaps. Repeat this until you use all the chicken mixture. After shaping the meatballs, it’s time to cook them. Lightly brush or spray the meatballs with olive oil. This helps create a crispy outside. Arrange the meatballs in the air fryer basket. Make sure they are in a single layer with space between them. Air fry for 12 to 15 minutes. Check for a nice golden brown color. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). If your air fryer cooks unevenly, you might need to adjust the time. Once done, carefully remove the meatballs and let them rest for a few minutes. They will be very hot! If you like, garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving. Preheating your air fryer is key to getting the best results. Set it to 380°F (190°C). Let it heat up for about 5 minutes. This helps the meatballs cook evenly and get that nice golden color. Once preheated, place the meatballs in the air fryer basket. Cook them for 12 to 15 minutes. You want them to turn golden brown and cook through. If your air fryer cooks fast, check them at 12 minutes to ensure they do not overcook. The most important part is checking the meatballs' internal temperature. Use a meat thermometer to check. They should reach 165°F (74°C) to be safe to eat. If they aren't there yet, put them back in for another 2-3 minutes. This step ensures your meal is both tasty and safe. {{image_4}} To prevent sticking, moisten your hands when shaping the meatballs. This simple tip makes a big difference. Wet hands help the chicken mixture slide easily. Use a small bowl of water to keep your hands damp. You can also lightly grease the air fryer basket with olive oil. This adds a protective layer, ensuring the meatballs release smoothly. For a crispy outside, brush the meatballs with olive oil before cooking. This helps them brown nicely. Set your air fryer to 380°F (190°C). Make sure not to overcrowd the basket. Give the meatballs space to cook evenly. Flip them halfway through cooking for an even crisp. This method creates a golden crust that you’ll love. Serve these meatballs with marinara sauce for a delicious dip. Place them on a vibrant platter. Add fresh basil leaves for a pop of color. You can also sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese on top. Pair them with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. These meatballs are great for parties or family dinners. If you want to switch things up, try different fillings. You can use chopped spinach or sun-dried tomatoes. Both add a nice touch of flavor and color. For a twist, try using feta cheese instead of mozzarella. The tanginess of feta pairs well with chicken. To make these meatballs gluten-free, replace breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives. You can use ground oats or almond flour. Both options bind well and keep the meatballs moist. Make sure to check labels for any hidden gluten ingredients in your seasonings. Herbs can change the flavor of your meatballs. Instead of Italian seasoning, you can use fresh parsley, cilantro, or even dill. Each herb gives a unique taste. Try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat. Mix and match to find your favorite combinations! You can tell the meatballs are done when they turn golden brown. The best way to check is to use a meat thermometer. Insert it into the center of a meatball. It should read 165°F (74°C). This means they are fully cooked and safe to eat. You can also cut one open to see if the center is no longer pink. Yes, you can make these meatballs ahead of time. You can prepare the meatballs and store them in the fridge for up to one day. Just keep them in an airtight container. If you want to store them longer, freeze them. Place the uncooked meatballs on a baking sheet. Freeze them for about an hour, then transfer them to a freezer bag. They can last in the freezer for up to three months. These meatballs pair well with various sides. Here are some great options: - A fresh green salad with vinaigrette - Pasta tossed with marinara sauce - Garlic bread for a crunchy bite - Steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans - A side of rice to soak up the flavors Feel free to mix and match! You now know how to make delicious mozzarella stuffed chicken meatballs. We covered key ingredients, cooking steps, and helpful tips. Remember to check the internal temperature for safety. Get creative with variations to suit your taste. Enjoy trying different herbs and fillings! With these methods, you can impress friends and family at any meal. Stick to this guide, and you will make tasty meatballs every time. Now, it’s time to cook and savor your great creation!

Air Fryer Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken Meatballs

Indulge in the deliciousness of Air Fryer Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken Meatballs! These easy-to-make meatballs are packed with flavor and gooey cheese, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing appetizer. With just 30 minutes from prep to plate, you'll love how simple and satisfying they are. Click through to explore the full recipe and impress your family and friends with this irresistible dish!
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Ingredients
  

1 lb ground chicken

1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably seasoned)

1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1 egg, beaten

1 tablespoon olive oil

Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, freshly grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and the beaten egg. Use your hands or a spatula to mix until all ingredients are well combined and form a cohesive mixture.

    Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (190°C) to ensure optimal cooking.

      Fill a small bowl with water. Moisten your hands slightly to prevent sticking and scoop about 2 tablespoons of the chicken mixture into your palm. Flatten it gently into a disc shape.

        Place a tablespoon of shredded mozzarella cheese in the center of the flattened chicken disc. Carefully mold the chicken mixture around the cheese until it’s fully enclosed within the ball shape. Make sure there are no gaps. Repeat this process until all the chicken mixture is used up.

          Lightly brush or spray the formed meatballs with olive oil, which will help them develop a crispy exterior in the air fryer.

            Arrange the meatballs in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they have space between them for proper air circulation. Air fry for 12-15 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Depending on your air fryer model, you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly.

              Once cooked, carefully remove the meatballs from the air fryer and allow them to rest for a few minutes; they will be extremely hot right out of the fryer!

                If desired, garnish the meatballs with fresh basil leaves before serving to add a touch of color and freshness.

                  Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4

                    - Presentation Tips: Serve the meatballs on a beautiful platter alongside a bowl of marinara sauce for dipping. For an eye-catching finish, sprinkle additional grated Parmesan and a handful of freshly torn basil leaves over the top for a vibrant and appetizing look.