Air fryer chicken rissoles

Air Fryer Chicken Rissoles Recipe: Crispy, Juicy, and Flavorful

Air fryer chicken rissoles are a delicious and healthier alternative to the traditional fried version, offering the same crispy texture with less oil. These rissoles, made with ground chicken, herbs, and a variety of seasonings, are not only easy to prepare but also perfect for meal prep, family dinners, or a snack. The air fryer provides a crispy, golden finish while keeping the inside tender and juicy. If you’re looking for a quick, tasty, and nutritious meal, air fryer chicken rissoles are the way to go.

In this recipe, we will walk you through step-by-step instructions to create the perfect air fryer chicken rissoles. Whether you’re new to cooking with an air fryer or you’re looking to add a new recipe to your repertoire, this dish is both straightforward and flavorful.

Why You’ll Love Air Fryer Chicken Rissoles

Chicken rissoles are essentially small patties made from ground chicken mixed with breadcrumbs, seasonings, and herbs. By using the air fryer, you get all the benefits of a crispy crust without the need for deep frying in unhealthy oils. The result is a healthier dish that retains all the juicy, tender qualities of the chicken while providing that satisfying crunch on the outside.

Air fryer chicken rissoles are quick, easy, and versatile, making them an excellent option for any meal of the day. You can serve them with a side of salad, vegetables, or even potato wedges for a complete meal. These rissoles are also perfect for meal prepping, making them ideal for lunchboxes, picnics, or dinner on the go.

Ingredients for Air Fryer Chicken Rissoles

For the Chicken Rissoles:

• 1 lb (450g) ground chicken (preferably lean)
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (use whole wheat for a healthier version)
• 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 egg
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried parsley)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika (smoked or regular)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1-2 tablespoons olive oil (for brushing)

For the Dipping Sauce (optional):

• 1/2 cup Greek yogurt or sour cream
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• A pinch of paprika or chili flakes (optional for added heat)

Step-by-Step Instructions for Air Fryer Chicken Rissoles

1. Prepare the Chicken Mixture:

The first step to making your air fryer chicken rissoles is to prepare the mixture.

• In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, grated parmesan cheese, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, chopped parsley, dried oregano, and paprika.
• Season with salt and pepper to taste. The breadcrumbs help bind the mixture together and give the rissoles structure, while the egg acts as a binder, ensuring the patties hold together during cooking.
• Use your hands or a spatula to thoroughly mix all the ingredients. The mixture should be slightly sticky, but if it’s too wet, add a little more breadcrumbs to achieve the right consistency.

2. Form the Rissoles:

Once the mixture is well combined, it’s time to shape your rissoles.

• Take a portion of the chicken mixture and roll it into a ball, about the size of a golf ball. Then, flatten it slightly with your palms to form a patty.
• Repeat the process with the remaining mixture, making about 8-10 rissoles, depending on the size you prefer. Try to keep them evenly sized so they cook at the same rate.
• If you find the mixture too sticky to handle, lightly grease your hands with a bit of oil or water to make shaping the rissoles easier.

3. Preheat the Air Fryer:

Before cooking the rissoles, it’s important to preheat your air fryer.

• Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and let it preheat for about 3-5 minutes. Preheating ensures that the rissoles cook evenly and develop a crisp outer crust.

4. Brush the Rissoles with Olive Oil:

To help achieve a golden, crispy exterior, lightly brush or spray the rissoles with olive oil before placing them in the air fryer. The oil will help the patties brown and crisp up nicely without the need for deep frying.

• Using a pastry brush, brush a light coat of olive oil over the surface of the rissoles. If you prefer, you can also use an oil spray for even coverage.

5. Cook the Rissoles in the Air Fryer:

Now, it’s time to cook the rissoles.

• Place the rissoles in a single layer in the preheated air fryer basket. Be sure not to overcrowd the basket, as this will prevent the rissoles from cooking evenly. You may need to cook them in batches if your air fryer is small.
• Air fry the chicken rissoles at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through the cooking time. The rissoles should be golden brown on the outside and cooked through on the inside. To check if they’re done, use a meat thermometer – the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
• If you want them even crispier, cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.

6. Serve and Enjoy:

Once the rissoles are cooked to perfection, remove them from the air fryer and allow them to rest for a couple of minutes. This will help keep the juices sealed inside the patties.

• Serve your air fryer chicken rissoles with a dipping sauce of your choice, such as a Greek yogurt-based sauce, ketchup, or barbecue sauce.
• These rissoles pair wonderfully with salads, steamed vegetables, or sweet potato fries for a complete meal.
• For a quick and easy meal prep idea, serve the rissoles with some roasted vegetables or quinoa for a healthy, filling lunch or dinner.

Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Chicken Rissoles:

1. Use Lean Ground Chicken: For a healthier option, choose lean ground chicken (or ground turkey) to reduce the fat content while keeping the rissoles juicy.

2. Don’t Overmix: When mixing the ingredients, avoid overmixing the chicken mixture. Overmixing can make the rissoles tough. Mix just enough to combine the ingredients well.

3. Add Flavor Variations: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to suit your taste. Basil, thyme, rosemary, or even a bit of chili powder can be great additions. You can also swap the parmesan cheese for cheddar cheese or mozzarella for a different flavor profile.

4. Test for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your rissoles are fully cooked. The ideal internal temperature for ground chicken should be 165°F (74°C) to guarantee safety and moisture.

5. Batch Cooking: If you’re cooking a large batch, you may need to cook the rissoles in multiple batches, depending on the size of your air fryer. Be sure to give the rissoles enough space to cook evenly.

6. Frozen Rissoles: These rissoles freeze very well. To freeze, place the uncooked rissoles on a baking sheet in a single layer, and freeze for 1-2 hours. Once frozen, transfer the rissoles to a freezer bag or airtight container. When ready to cook, air fry them directly from frozen, adding an extra 3-5 minutes to the cooking time.

Nutritional Benefits of Air Fryer Chicken Rissoles:

Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle growth, repair, and overall health. These rissoles are lower in fat than their fried counterparts, thanks to the use of the air fryer. They also provide a good dose of fiber from the breadcrumbs, which helps with digestion and maintaining healthy blood sugar levels.

Adding parsley provides a boost of vitamin C and antioxidants, while the garlic adds flavor and has immune-boosting properties. The parmesan cheese adds a touch of calcium and healthy fats, making these rissoles a well-rounded option for a nutritious meal.

Final Thoughts:

Air fryer chicken rissoles are a delicious, easy-to-make, and healthier alternative to traditional fried chicken patties. By using the air fryer, you get a crispy, golden crust with significantly less oil, making this recipe perfect for those looking to enjoy comfort food without the guilt. These rissoles are great for meal prep, family dinners, or serving at a casual gathering. Customize them with your favorite herbs and spices to make them uniquely yours. Enjoy the crispy, juicy, and flavorful air fryer chicken rissoles today!