Air Fryer Al Fresco Tomato & Basil Chicken Meatballs

Air Fryer Al Fresco Tomato & Basil Chicken Meatballs

Air frying Al Fresco Tomato & Basil Chicken Meatballs gives you juicy, tender meatballs with a lightly crisped exterior in under 10 minutes. Made with real tomato, basil, and Italian herbs, these fully cooked meatballs are perfect for pasta, subs, appetizers, or meal prep.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Classic Italian Flavors

Real tomato and basil give these meatballs a bright, herbaceous taste that pairs perfectly with marinara or pesto.

Quick, No-Mess Cooking

Skip the stovetop—air frying is fast, clean, and gets you perfectly heated meatballs every time.

Versatile and Meal-Ready

Use in pasta dishes, meatball subs, rice bowls, or serve solo with dipping sauce.

Cook From Fresh or Frozen

Fully cooked and air fryer-ready straight from the fridge or freezer.

Ingredients

• 1 package Al Fresco Tomato & Basil Chicken Meatballs (fresh or frozen)

Optional:

• Pasta or zoodles

• Marinara, pesto, or Alfredo sauce

• Parmesan cheese, basil leaves, or crushed red pepper

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3–4 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Meatballs

• Remove desired number of meatballs from the packaging.

• If frozen, separate gently—no thawing needed.

• Arrange meatballs in a single layer in the air fryer basket or tray with space between each one.

Step 3: Air Fry to Perfection

• Cook at 375°F for 8–10 minutes, shaking or flipping halfway through.

• For frozen meatballs, cook 10–12 minutes, flipping after 6 minutes.

• Meatballs are done when lightly browned and heated through. Internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).

Step 4: Rest & Serve

Let meatballs rest for 2 minutes before serving or adding to your dish.

Pro Tips for the Best Results

Use a Thermometer

Even fully cooked meatballs should be reheated to 165°F for food safety and best texture.

Don’t Overcrowd

Leave space between each meatball to ensure even crisping and heating.

Shake or Flip

Turn meatballs halfway through for even browning on all sides.

Add Sauce After Cooking

Air fry first, then toss in sauce to keep the outside lightly crisp.

What to Serve With Al Fresco Tomato & Basil Chicken Meatballs

Sauce and Garnish Ideas

• Marinara or Tomato Basil Sauce – Classic and flavorful

• Pesto or Garlic Cream Sauce – Herb-forward or creamy options

• Parmesan Cheese and Fresh Basil – Traditional toppings

• Crushed Red Pepper or Olive Oil – Spice or richness

Side Dishes

• Spaghetti or Penne Pasta – The ultimate Italian pairing

• Garlic Bread or Toasted Baguette – For dipping and scooping

• Caesar or Caprese Salad – Fresh, vibrant contrast

• Roasted Broccoli or Zucchini – Healthy and flavorful sides

Creative Serving Ideas

• Meatball Sub: Add to a hoagie with marinara and mozzarella

• Italian Bowl: Serve over farro or quinoa with veggies and tomato sauce

• Flatbread Pizza: Slice and add as a topping with fresh basil and cheese

• Party Skewers: Serve with toothpicks and dipping sauce as an appetizer

Storage & Reheating Instructions

How to Store Leftovers

Cool completely and refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

How to Reheat in the Air Fryer

Reheat at 350°F (177°C) for 3–4 minutes, or until hot throughout.

Can You Freeze After Cooking?

Yes—wrap or store in a sealed container and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat from frozen at 375°F for 6–7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Al Fresco Tomato & Basil Meatballs Fully Cooked?

Yes—these meatballs are fully cooked. Reheat to 165°F before serving.

Can I Cook Them From Frozen?

Yes—no need to thaw. Just increase cook time by 2–3 minutes and flip halfway through.

Do I Need to Use Oil or Spray?

No—these meatballs crisp and heat beautifully without any added oil.

Are They Spicy?

No—these meatballs have a mild, herb-forward flavor from tomato and basil.

Make Al Fresco Tomato & Basil Chicken Meatballs in the air fryer for tender, flavorful bites ready in under 10 minutes. Perfect for pasta, subs, or snacks. Full instructions, pro tips, and serving ideas included.