Air Fryer Trader Joe’s Chicken Meatballs

Air Fryer Trader Joe’s Chicken Meatballs cook up crispy on the outside and juicy in the center in just minutes. Perfect for quick dinners, bowls, wraps, or an easy party snack without the extra work.

If you’re looking for a fast, no-fuss way to turn a bag of Trader Joe’s chicken meatballs into something seriously crave-worthy, your air fryer is about to become your favorite kitchen sidekick.

These meatballs come out lightly crisped on the outside, juicy in the middle, and ready in minutes—no oven, no stovetop, no drama. Toss them in a bowl, drop them into a wrap, or dunk them in your favorite sauce for an easy meal or snack that tastes like you put in way more effort than you actually did.

Why You Will Love This Recipe!

• Dinner in minutes – Faster than ordering takeout and way more satisfying.

• Crispy outside, juicy inside – The air fryer works its magic every time.

• No prep stress – Open the bag, press start, win at dinner.

• Plays well with anything – Pasta, salads, wraps, subs… you name it.

• Kid and adult approved – One rare moment of total dinner peace.

Ingredients Needed

• Trader Joe’s chicken meatballs: Fully cooked, seasoned, and perfect for the air fryer

• Optional dipping sauce: Perfect for dunking, drizzling, or flavor boosting.

How To Make Air Fryer Trader Joe’s Chicken Meatballs

Step One: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with non-stick cooking spray to prevent the meatballs from sticking.

Step Two: Arrange the chicken meatballs in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they’re not touching or overcrowded. This allows for even cooking and browning.

Step Three: Set the cook time for 5-7 minutes. Halfway through the cooking time, shake the basket or turn the meatballs to ensure even browning.

Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure they’re heated through. It should read at least 165°F (74°C) for chicken.

Air Fryer Trader Joe’s Chicken Meatballs Recipe Tips

• No thawing needed. Cook them straight from frozen for the best texture.
• Give them some space. Don’t overcrowd the basket or they’ll steam instead of crisp.
• Shake the basket halfway. A quick toss keeps the browning even on all sides.
• Add sauce after cooking. Tossing them too early can mess with the crisp outside.
• Watch the last few minutes. Air fryers can run hot and go from golden to “oops” fast.
• Boost the flavor. Sprinkle on garlic powder, Parmesan, or red pepper flakes after cooking.
• Make it a meal. Drop them into pasta, rice bowls, wraps, or stuff into a toasted sub roll.

Storing Instructions

• Storing: Let the meatballs cool completely, then place them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 3–5 minutes for the best texture. For a quicker option, microwave in short bursts until heated through.

Air Fryer Trader Joe’s Chicken Meatballs Recipe Faqs

Do I need to thaw the meatballs first? No! Trader Joe’s pre-cooked chicken meatballs can be cooked straight from frozen in the air fryer. This is generally the fastest and easiest method.

Do I need to add oil? No, the meatballs do not typically require extra oil since they are pre-cooked. However, a very light spritz of cooking spray or olive oil can help them get extra crispy.

How do I add a sauce (like BBQ or Teriyaki)? Cook the meatballs until they are almost done. Then, toss them in your desired sauce and return them to the air fryer for the final 2–3 minutes to let the sauce caramelize slightly.

Can I cut them in half to cook faster? Yes, if you are short on time, cutting the meatballs in half will reduce the cooking time to about 6–8 minutes and create more crispy surface area.

Trader Joe’s Chicken Meatballs Review

• Convenience: They are fully cooked, making them an effortless addition to quick weeknight dinners. They heat up rapidly in the air fryer, microwave, or oven.
• Flavor Profile: The flavor is typically mild and savory, which is a huge benefit because they readily absorb the flavor of any sauce.
• Texture: They have a good, tender texture—not rubbery or tough—which is great for frozen meatballs.
• Versatility: They are perfect for fast meals, such as tossing into ramen or pasta, serving as a quick appetizer, or bulking up a sandwich.

More Air Fryer Recipes

• Air Fryer Crispy Bacon
• Air Fryer Twice Baked Potatoes
• Easy Air Fryer Hasselback Potatoes
• Air Fryer Potato Wedges

Don’t Forget To Pin!

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