If you’re anything like me, you crave something bold and satisfying midweek, but don’t always have time to roll, fold, or pan-fry dumplings from scratch. These Air Fryer Chicken Dumpling Meatballs are my shortcut to that irresistible takeout flavor with a healthy, home-cooked twist. Think classic dumpling vibes with ginger, garlic, sesame, cabbage, and green onion, all rolled into juicy, bite-sized meatballs that cook in under 10 minutes!
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Reasons This Recipe is Great for Meal Prep:
- These meatballs cook incredibly fast in the air fryer, making them a perfect choice when you’re short on time but still want a hot, homemade meal.
- They freeze beautifully, so you can make a double batch and have a backup ready for any busy night when cooking feels impossible.
- There’s no need to fuss with dumpling wrappers or folding. These meatballs capture all the flavor of dumplings with way less effort.
- The flavor is bold and satisfying thanks to the garlic, ginger, fish sauce, and sesame oil, and you don’t need a complicated ingredient list to make them taste amazing.
- These meatballs are super versatile and you can serve them with rice, noodles, or veggies, and switch things up all week long without getting bored.
- They’re packed with protein from the ground chicken and egg, which makes them filling and great for fueling you through a busy day.
- They deliver that delicious takeout-style flavor you love, but with healthier ingredients and way more control over what goes into your food
Easy Dipping Sauce Pairings:
No dumpling-style meatball is complete without a good dipping sauce—it’s the cherry on top of your meal prep game. Whether you love sweet, spicy, tangy, or creamy, there’s a sauce here to match your vibe and elevate every bite. These easy, mix-and-match sauces bring big flavor without much effort, so you can keep your meals interesting all week long. Let’s dip into some delicious options!
- Classic Soy Dipping Sauce: Mix 2 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp rice vinegar, and a dash of sesame oil. Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Sweet Chili Sauce: No mixing required—this store-bought favorite is perfect for dipping or drizzling.
- Ginger-Soy Dressing: Whisk together 2 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tsp fresh ginger, 1 tsp garlic, 1 tsp honey, and a splash of lime juice.
- Sriracha Mayo: Combine 2 tbsp mayo and 1 tbsp sriracha for a creamy, spicy dip.
- Peanut Sauce: Mix 1 tbsp peanut butter, 1 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tsp rice vinegar, and splash of warm water until smooth. Add a little honey or lime juice for balance.
How to Make Air Fryer Chicken Dumpling Meatballs:
- Start by placing all of your ingredients into a large mixing bowl. Use clean hands or a spoon to mix everything together until fully combined.
- Once the mixture is ready, use a 2-ounce scoop or your hands to form evenly sized meatballs. Try to make them the same size so they cook evenly.
- Arrange the meatballs on your air fryer rack or tray, making sure they’re not touching. Spray the tops of the meatballs with cooking oil until they are lightly but fully coated. This helps them brown and stay juicy.
- Preheat your air fryer to 390°F for a few minutes to ensure even cooking. Once it’s ready, carefully place the meatballs into the air fryer basket or tray in a single layer.
- Cook the meatballs for 8 to 10 minutes, flipping them halfway through so they brown evenly on all sides.
- Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature has reached at least 165°F. If they haven’t reached that temperature yet, continue cooking for another 1 to 2 minutes and check again.
- Once they’re fully cooked, remove the meatballs from the air fryer and let them cool slightly. Serve them with your favorite sides and dipping sauces, or portion them out into containers for meal prep!
Pairing Tips for a Complete Meal
- Steamed Jasmine Rice or Brown Rice: A classic base that soaks up all the juicy flavor. Add a sprinkle of sesame seeds or sliced scallions for extra flair.
- Garlic Sesame Noodles: Toss cooked noodles with a quick sauce of soy sauce, sesame oil, and a bit of chili paste for a delicious noodle bowl.
- Sautéed or Roasted Veggies: Broccoli, bok choy, snap peas, bell peppers, or shredded carrots add crunch and color. A splash of soy sauce or rice vinegar makes them pop.
- Lettuce Wraps: Serve the meatballs in butter lettuce leaves with shredded carrots, cucumber, and a drizzle of sauce for a low-carb option.
- Asian-Inspired Slaw: Try cabbage, shredded carrots, and a light dressing made from rice vinegar, lime juice, and a touch of honey.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use ground turkey or beef instead of ground chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative, and ground beef works too. Just keep in mind it may result in a slightly richer flavor. Choose leaner cuts if you’re watching fat content.
I don’t have an air fryer. Can I bake these instead?
Yes! Preheat your oven to 400°F and place the meatballs on a lined baking sheet. Bake for 15–20 minutes or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F, flipping halfway for even browning.
How long will these meatballs last in the fridge?
They’ll stay fresh for up to 4 days in an airtight container in the fridge. Perfect for meal prepping a few lunches or dinners in advance!
Chicken Dumpling Meatballs
Equipment
Ingredients
Ground Chicken Mixture
Instructions
Video
Notes