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Crispy Air Fryer Turkey Meatballs Easy Recipe with Sweet Chili Glaze

crispy air fryer turkey meatballs - featured image

These crispy air fryer turkey meatballs are juicy inside with a flavorful sweet chili glaze, perfect for quick dinners or snacks. The air fryer crisps them up beautifully without excess oil, making a healthy and delicious meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground turkey (lean, fresh)
  • ½ cup panko breadcrumbs (60 g)
  • 1 large egg (room temperature)
  • 2 green onions (finely chopped)
  • 2 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Olive oil spray
  • ½ cup sweet chili sauce (120 ml)
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce (15 ml)
  • 1 tsp rice vinegar (5 ml)
  • 1 tbsp honey (15 ml)
  • 1 tsp sesame seeds (optional)

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, panko breadcrumbs, egg, green onions, garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined, about 5 minutes.
  2. Roll the mixture into 1 ½-inch (4 cm) balls, about 16-18 meatballs. Place on a parchment-lined tray or plate.
  3. Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (193°C) for 3-5 minutes.
  4. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil spray. Arrange meatballs in a single layer with space between each.
  5. Cook for 10 minutes, then flip meatballs, spray the other side lightly, and cook for another 5-7 minutes until golden and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  6. While meatballs cook, whisk together sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and honey in a small skillet. Warm over medium heat for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened and glossy.
  7. Transfer cooked meatballs to a large bowl, pour warm glaze over, and gently toss to coat. Sprinkle with sesame seeds if desired.
  8. Serve immediately warm.

Notes

Do not overmix the meat mixture to avoid tough meatballs. Use panko breadcrumbs for best texture. Lightly spray meatballs and air fryer basket with olive oil spray for a golden crust. Preheat air fryer for even cooking. Check internal temperature to ensure meatballs are cooked through. Warm glaze slightly to help it cling to meatballs. If browning too fast, reduce air fryer temperature by 10-15°F and increase cooking time slightly. Meatballs can be baked in a conventional oven at 400°F for 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway.

Nutrition

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