If you’re always on the hunt for a satisfying, flavor-packed vegetarian dish that comes together quickly, this Easy Air Fryer Falafel Recipe is about to become your new go-to! Crispy on the outside, tender and aromatic inside, these falafel are bursting with the classic Middle Eastern flavors you love—without any deep frying mess. Whether you’re piling them into pita bread, adding them to salads, or enjoying them as a snack, this recipe gives you everything you want in homemade falafel, minus the fuss and extra oil. Perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or entertaining, each bite proves healthy food can absolutely be crave-worthy.

Easy Air Fryer Falafel Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

What makes this Easy Air Fryer Falafel Recipe so irresistible is how it blends humble pantry staples and fresh ingredients to deliver bold flavor. Every item in this list plays a crucial role, whether adding aromatic punch, keeping things moist, or delivering a signature golden hue.

Chickpeas (dried, soaked overnight): Absolutely essential for the classic texture and flavor; canned chickpeas don’t give quite the same result here.
Fresh parsley: Adds herby brightness and a beautiful green fleck throughout each falafel ball.
Fresh cilantro: Delivers zesty, citrus-like notes and more vibrant color.
Yellow onion: Lends moisture and sweet undertones that mellow as they cook.
Garlic cloves: Give a punch of savory warmth—don’t skimp!
Ground cumin: Offers irresistible, earthy spice that’s key to authentic falafel.
Ground coriander: Lends a light, lemony flavor that balances the dish.
Salt and pepper: The best way to make all those flavors pop—taste as you go.
Baking powder: Helps keep your falafel light inside, even without deep frying.
All-purpose flour (or chickpea flour): Just a spoonful or two helps bind the mixture if needed. Chickpea flour adds extra nuttiness!
Olive oil spray: Ensures that perfectly crispy, golden crust in the air fryer without extra oil.

How to Make Easy Air Fryer Falafel Recipe

Step 1: Soak the Chickpeas

Start out by soaking your dried chickpeas overnight in plenty of cold water. This is non-negotiable for the Easy Air Fryer Falafel Recipe, as it creates that signature texture that’s light and tender but sturdy enough to hold together. Simply cover them with several inches of water and let them plump up for 12 to 24 hours; they’ll more than double in size.

Step 2: Blend the Mixture

Drain your soaked chickpeas and blot them dry with a clean towel. Add them to a food processor along with your chopped onion, garlic, parsley, cilantro, cumin, coriander, salt, and pepper. Pulse everything until you have a coarse, slightly crumbly mixture. Be careful not to over-process—you’re aiming for a mix that holds together but isn’t a mushy puree. This step gives your Easy Air Fryer Falafel Recipe its craveable texture and holds in all those vibrant flavors.

Step 3: Add Baking Powder and Flour

Transfer the mixture to a bowl and sprinkle in your baking powder. If the mixture feels too loose, gently blend in a tablespoon or two of flour until you can pinch it and it holds together without sticking to your hands. This is your moment to check the seasoning and adjust to taste—you want every bite of this falafel to seriously wow.

Step 4: Shape the Falafel

Using slightly damp hands or a falafel scoop, shape the mixture into small balls or patties, about the size of a golf ball. This size ensures they’ll cook through perfectly in the air fryer and develop a beautifully crisp shell outside. If needed, place them on a parchment-lined tray and let them chill in the fridge for 15-30 minutes before air frying; this helps them firm up and hold their shape during cooking.

Step 5: Air Fry to Perfection

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Spritz the falafel lightly with olive oil spray, then arrange them in the basket, being sure to leave a little space so they don’t touch. Cook for 14-16 minutes, turning them halfway through and giving another quick spray if desired, until deeply golden brown and crisp. Thanks to the air fryer, you get all the crunch of fried falafel with far less oil—and the kitchen stays neat!

How to Serve Easy Air Fryer Falafel Recipe

Garnishes

A good falafel is all about the extras! Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley, a pinch of sumac for tang, or toasted sesame seeds right over the top before serving. For extra richness, drizzle with tahini sauce or a dollop of creamy yogurt—no one can resist that finishing touch.

Side Dishes

This Easy Air Fryer Falafel Recipe is next-level served with pillowy warm pita or flatbread, a classic Israeli chopped salad, pickled red onions, or crisp cucumber and tomato slices. For extra color and crunch, add a platter of quick pickles or even sweet potato fries on the side.

Creative Ways to Present

Think beyond pita! Turn falafel into mini sliders with whole-wheat buns, add to a vibrant grain bowl with quinoa and roasted veggies, or skewer them for a fun, party-ready appetizer. I also love breaking them up over a big green salad with lemony dressing—you’ll want to try them every which way.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, transfer any remaining falafel to an airtight container and keep them in the fridge for up to 4 days. They won’t lose their flavor and are perfect for quick meals whenever hunger strikes.

Freezing

These falafel freeze beautifully, making the Easy Air Fryer Falafel Recipe ideal for meal prep. Place cooled falafel in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag or container. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months—just be sure to label and date them!

Reheating

Pop chilled or frozen falafel back in the air fryer at 350°F for 4-6 minutes, or until they’re crisp and heated through. They also reheat well in a hot oven; microwaving is fast but will soften the crust, so use the air fryer or oven for that unbeatable crunch.

FAQs

Can I use canned chickpeas for this Easy Air Fryer Falafel Recipe?

While it’s tempting for convenience, canned chickpeas add too much moisture and create a denser, mushier result. For the best flavor and texture, stick with dried chickpeas soaked overnight—trust me, it’s worth the little bit of extra planning!

Is it possible to make these gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just swap in chickpea flour for the regular flour, and double check your baking powder is certified gluten-free. The Easy Air Fryer Falafel Recipe is delicious either way, with a subtly nuttier touch from chickpea flour.

What can I use if I don’t own an air fryer?

You can bake falafel in a regular oven at 400°F on a lined baking sheet, flipping halfway through. While the texture might be a tad less crisp than air fried, you’ll still get golden, delicious falafel worth every bite.

How do I keep my falafel mixture from falling apart?

If your mixture doesn’t hold when formed, it may need more flour or a bit of extra chilling time before shaping. Always avoid over-processing the mixture—it should have little bits for that signature textured bite!

Can I make the falafel mixture in advance?

Yes! You can make the mixture up to 2 days ahead and store it, tightly covered, in the refrigerator. When ready to cook, simply shape and air fry as directed for fresh, piping-hot falafel in no time.

Final Thoughts

If you’re ready to add a bold, healthy twist to your weekly rotation, this Easy Air Fryer Falafel Recipe is the answer you’ve been looking for. The ease and flavor packed into every bite truly make it unforgettable, so don’t wait—try it soon and see why this dish has become such a favorite in my own kitchen. I can’t wait for you to experience these golden, herby morsels for yourself!