Crispy Cheesy Stuffed Chicken Balls

Ingredients

Chicken Mixture

• 1 lb (450g) ground chicken
• 1/2 cup Panko breadcrumbs (for binding inside)
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped

Cheese Filling

• 4 oz (115g) low-moisture mozzarella, cut into sixteen 1/2-inch cubes

Coating / Dredge

• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs, beaten with 1 tbsp water
• 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
• Olive oil cooking spray

Instructions

Option 1: Air Fryer Method (Crispiest Result)

1. Intensity / Temp: 380°F (193°C)
2. Time: 10 to 12 minutes
3. Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C) for 3–5 minutes.
4. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil spray.
5. Arrange the chilled chicken balls in a single layer in the basket, leaving at least 1/2 inch of space between each. Do not overcrowd; cook in two batches if necessary.
6. Generously spray the tops of the chicken balls with olive oil spray—this ensures the Panko turns deeply golden and crunchy rather than dry.
7. Air fry for 10 to 12 minutes , flipping/shaking the basket gently at the 6-minute mark.
8. Check internal temperature with an instant-read thermometer. The chicken is done when the internal temp reaches 165°F (74°C) .

Option 2: Oven Baked Method (Best for Large Batches)

1. Intensity / Temp: 400°F (200°C) Convection or Conventional
2. Time: 18 to 20 minutes
3. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) . Line a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or fit it with an oven-safe wire rack sprayed with oil.
4. Arrange the breaded chicken balls evenly on the sheet or rack.
5. Spray the tops generously with olive oil spray.
6. Bake for 18 to 20 minutes , turning them halfway through cooking, until the exterior is golden-brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) .

Nutrition

Calories: 285 kcal · Protein: 26 g · Fat: 12 g · Carbohydrates: 17 g · Saturated Fat: 4.5 g · Fiber: 1 g · Sugar: 1 g · Sodium: 520 mg