Recipe
Ninja Air Fryer Coconut Thai Meatballs Recipe
Published: April 1, 2024
These Thai meatballs are my go-to for a quick, flavorful dinner. I mix chicken, coconut, and spices, then pop them in my air fryer. Crispy, juicy, and ready in minutes!
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Get ready for an explosion of flavors with my Ninja Air Fryer Coconut Thai Meatballs recipe. Perfectly juicy chicken meatballs, a hint of spice from the red curry paste, sweetness from the coconut milk, all wrapped together with a crispy, golden finish from the air fryer. This dish is a thrill to make, and it's the kind of meal that makes everyone at the table go quiet because they're too busy savoring! Trust me, you're about to be the hero of your kitchen.
Ingredients for Coconut Thai Meatballs
- Ground chicken: Lean protein base for meatballs, keeping them light and flavorful with a tender texture when cooked.
- Breadcrumbs: Bind the meatball mixture together, providing structure and absorbing moisture to prevent the meatballs from becoming dry.
- Coconut milk: Adds richness and creaminess to the meatballs, infusing them with a subtle coconut flavor for a tropical twist.
- Garlic: Enhances the savory profile of the meatballs with its aromatic flavor, adding depth and complexity to the overall dish.
- Soy sauce: Provides a salty umami kick to the meatballs, balancing the flavors and adding depth to the marinade.
- Fish sauce: Amplifies the savory notes in the meatballs, lending a unique depth of flavor and a touch of umami richness.
- Red curry paste: Infuses the meatballs with a bold and aromatic Thai flavor profile, adding a hint of spice and complexity.
- Shredded coconut: Offers a subtle sweetness and texture contrast to the meatballs, complementing the other flavors with a tropical flair.
- Cilantro: Brightens the meatballs with its fresh and citrusy notes, adding a pop of color and herbaceous aroma to the dish.
One interesting fact about this ninja air fryer coconut Thai meatballs recipe is that you can swap the ground chicken with ground turkey for a leaner option without compromising on flavor. It's a simple tweak that can cater to different dietary preferences while still delivering a delicious dish.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl: To combine and mix all the ingredients thoroughly for the meatball mixture.
- Air fryer: To cook the meatballs quickly and evenly, giving them a crispy texture without the need for excess oil.
Common Questions About This Recipe
Serves: 4 people
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup coconut milk
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp fish sauce
- 1 tsp red curry paste
- 1/4 cup shredded coconut
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooking spray
Instructions:
- In a bowl, mix together the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, coconut milk, garlic, soy sauce, fish sauce, red curry paste, shredded coconut, cilantro, salt, and pepper.
- Shape the mixture into meatballs.
- Preheat the air fryer to 360°F (180°C).
- Lightly coat the air fryer basket with cooking spray.
- Place the meatballs in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
- Air fry at 360°F (180°C) for 12-15 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and golden brown.
- Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce or over rice.
Read more: Instant Pot Thai Coconut Shrimp Recipe
Nutritional value:
Per Serving in Calories: 320 kcal | Carbohydrates: 12 g | Protein: 25 g | Total Fat: 18 g | Saturated Fat: 8 g | Trans Fat: 0 g | Monounsaturated Fat: 6 g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 3 g | Cholesterol: 90 mg | Sodium: 680 mg | Dietary Fiber: 2 g | Sugar: 2 g | Calcium: 60 mg | Potassium: 420 mg | Iron: 2 mg | Vitamin A: 100 µg | Vitamin C: 5 mg
Preparing and Storing Coconut Thai Meatballs
Make Ahead Instructions
- Prepare the meatball mixture as directed.
- Shape the meatballs and place them on a baking sheet.
- Cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before air frying.
Freezing Instructions
- After shaping the meatballs, place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
- Transfer the frozen meatballs to a freezer-safe bag or container.
- Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
- When ready to cook, air fry the frozen meatballs, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
