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Lemon Butter Chicken Meatballs Recipe

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4.3 from 9 reviews

Delicious and zesty Lemon Butter Chicken Meatballs cooked to perfection in an air fryer and tossed in a fragrant lemon brown butter sauce. These meatballs are flavorful, tender, and perfect as an appetizer or main dish, garnished with fresh herbs and parmesan cheese.

  • Author: Emma
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 20 meatballs
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Air Frying
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Low Fat

Ingredients

Meatballs

  • 3/4 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon sea salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • 1 pinch ground black pepper (optional)
  • 1 large egg, beaten
  • 1 large clove garlic, grated
  • 1 pound ground chicken
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil, for greasing air fryer basket and hands

Lemon Brown Butter Sauce & Garnish

  • 5 tablespoons salted butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, smashed and peeled
  • 1/2 lemon, juiced
  • Flaky sea salt, for garnish
  • Freshly-grated parmesan cheese, for garnish
  • Fresh herbs (choose your favorite): oregano, basil, or Italian parsley

Instructions

  1. Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, lemon zest, dried oregano, red pepper flakes, sea salt, and ground black pepper. Add the beaten egg and grated garlic, then mix to combine. Gently add the ground chicken and mix just until incorporated, being careful not to overmix.
  2. Form Meatballs: Lightly coat your hands and fingers with olive oil to prevent sticking. Form golf-ball-sized meatballs by hand or use a metal scoop. Roll each meatball gently between your palms to form smooth balls. Place them in a single layer inside the prepared air fryer basket, ensuring space between each meatball to allow crisping. Avoid overcrowding; cook in batches if necessary.
  3. Air Fry Meatballs: Preheat the air fryer to 375°F. Cook the meatballs for 12 to 14 minutes, or until golden brown and an instant-read thermometer inserted into the center registers 165°F, ensuring they are fully cooked.
  4. Prepare Lemon Brown Butter Sauce: While the meatballs cook, set a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the butter and smashed garlic cloves. Allow the butter to melt and cook for 3 to 4 minutes, until foam forms on top. Gently swirl the pan for 30 to 45 seconds until the butter turns brown and the foam clears, releasing a rich, nutty aroma. Remove from heat and stir in the lemon juice.
  5. Toss Meatballs in Sauce: Transfer the cooked meatballs to a bowl. Pour the lemon brown butter sauce over them and toss gently to coat all meatballs evenly.
  6. Garnish and Serve: Plate the meatballs with your favorite sides. Garnish with a pinch of flaky sea salt, freshly grated parmesan cheese, and fresh herbs such as oregano, basil, or Italian parsley to add freshness and color.

Notes

  • Do not overmix the meatball mixture to keep the meatballs tender and juicy.
  • Make sure to space meatballs in the air fryer basket to allow for even cooking and crisp texture.
  • Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure the meatballs reach a safe internal temperature of 165°F.
  • The lemon brown butter sauce can be made ahead and warmed gently before serving.
  • Substitute ground turkey if preferred, but adjust cooking times accordingly.

Find it online: https://allcookedup.com/lemon-butter-chicken-meatballs-recipe/