French Onion Chicken Meatballs

These French Onion Chicken Meatballs are flavorful, hearty, and crazy delicious! They make for a perfect appetizer or main dish that will impress your guests at any gathering. The unique blend of herbs and the richness of cheese create a delightful experience in every bite. Whether it’s game day, a party, or a cozy family dinner, these meatballs are sure to be a hit!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have these meatballs ready in no time.
• Flavorful Combination: The mix of onions, garlic, and cheeses brings an irresistible taste that delights everyone.
• Versatile Dish: Serve them as appetizers, in subs, or over pasta for a filling meal.
• Healthy Option: Made with lean chicken and fresh ingredients, they’re a nutritious choice without sacrificing flavor.
• Great for Meal Prep: These meatballs freeze well, making them perfect for quick weeknight dinners.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools is essential.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Large skillet
• Cooking spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A spacious bowl allows for easy mixing of all ingredients without spills.
• Baking sheet: Provides even cooking space for your meatballs to achieve that perfect texture.
• Large skillet: Ideal for sautéing onions and simmering the sauce without crowding.

Ingredients

These French Onion Chicken Meatballs are flavorful, hearty, and crazy delicious!

For the Meatballs:

• 1 egg
• 5 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon pepper
• 1/3 cup almond meal for gluten free version (or bread crumbs if preferred)
• 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/3 cup parsley, finely chopped
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 1 pound 93% lean ground chicken

For the Onion Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
• 4 large garlic cloves, minced
• 1 1/2 cups beef broth
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper

For Topping:

• 4 ounces shredded Gruyère cheese (see Note about cheeses below)
• 6 ounces shredded Havarti cheese (see Note about shredding the Havarti below)

How to Make French Onion Chicken Meatballs

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Meatball Mixture

In a large mixing bowl:
1. Combine all meatball ingredients: ground chicken, Parmesan cheese, almond meal, chopped parsley, chopped onion, egg, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
2. Mix until everything is evenly combined.

Step 3: Form the Meatballs

Using a 1½ inch scoop:
– Form meatballs from the mixture and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
– Ensure they are evenly spaced.

Step 4: Bake the Meatballs

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven:
– Bake for 15-20 minutes or until their internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Step 5: Sauté Onions

While the meatballs bake:
– Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
– Add sliced onions and cook until they become soft and golden brown (about 25 minutes), stirring often.

Step 6: Add Garlic and Seasonings

Once onions are golden:
– Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
– Add beef broth along with thyme, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil then reduce heat to simmer until slightly thickened (around 5 minutes).

Step 7: Combine Meatballs with Sauce

Add the baked meatballs into the skillet:
– Cook together for about 5 minutes.
– Sprinkle shredded cheese over the meatballs. Cover the pan until cheese melts (approximately 3-5 minutes).

Serve warm garnished with fresh thyme. Enjoy your flavorful French Onion Chicken Meatballs!

How to Serve French Onion Chicken Meatballs

French Onion Chicken Meatballs are a delightful treat that can be served in various creative ways. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

On a Bed of Mashed Potatoes

• Creamy mashed potatoes provide the perfect base for these meatballs, soaking up the rich flavors of the onion gravy.

In a Submarine Sandwich

• Place the meatballs in a toasted sub roll, topped with melted cheese and caramelized onions for a satisfying sandwich.

As an Appetizer with Dipping Sauce

• Serve the meatballs on toothpicks with a side of marinara or garlic aioli for easy snacking at parties.

Over Zucchini Noodles

• For a lighter option, serve the meatballs over zucchini noodles, drizzled with olive oil and sprinkled with fresh herbs.

With Rice Pilaf

• Pair with fluffy rice pilaf to complement the savory flavors, adding nuts or dried fruits for extra texture.

In a Salad

• Toss the meatballs into a fresh salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette for a hearty meal.

How to Perfect French Onion Chicken Meatballs

For optimal results when making French Onion Chicken Meatballs, consider these tips to elevate your dish.

• Use Lean Ground Chicken: Opt for 93% lean ground chicken to keep your meatballs flavorful while reducing excess fat.
• Don’t Skip the Onions: Caramelizing the onions adds depth and sweetness; take your time to cook them until they’re golden and soft.
• Mix Gently: When combining ingredients for the meatballs, mix gently to prevent them from becoming tough.
• Adjust Seasonings: Feel free to tweak salt, pepper, and herbs according to your taste preference for maximum flavor.
• Let Them Rest: Allow cooked meatballs to rest briefly before serving so they stay juicy and absorb more flavor from the sauce.
• Experiment with Cheeses: Try different cheese combinations like mozzarella or cheddar for varied tastes and textures.

Best Side Dishes for French Onion Chicken Meatballs

To create a well-rounded meal, consider pairing your French Onion Chicken Meatballs with these delicious side dishes.

1. Garlic Bread: A crusty loaf brushed with garlic butter makes an excellent companion for soaking up sauce.
2. Steamed Green Beans: Crisp-tender green beans add color and freshness to balance out the richness of the meatballs.
3. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad tossed with veggies provides a healthy contrast in texture and nutrients.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized enhance both flavor and nutrition on your plate.
5. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and acidity that complements the savory meatballs perfectly.
6. Cauliflower Rice: Light and fluffy cauliflower rice serves as a low-carb alternative that’s great at absorbing flavors.
7. Baked Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes bring natural sweetness that pairs beautifully with savory dishes like these meatballs.
8. Couscous: Fluffy couscous seasoned with herbs makes for an easy-to-prepare side that absorbs delicious juices from the meatballs.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making French Onion Chicken Meatballs, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps. Here are some common mistakes to avoid.

• Skipping the onion caramelization: Not taking the time to properly caramelize the onions can lead to a lack of flavor. Cook them slowly until they’re soft and golden brown for maximum taste.
• Overmixing the meatball mixture: Mixing too vigorously can make your meatballs tough instead of tender. Combine ingredients just until they are mixed; don’t overdo it.
• Neglecting to use lean ground chicken: Using ground chicken with higher fat content can result in greasy meatballs. Opt for 93% lean ground chicken for the best texture.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Eyeballing ingredients may lead to inconsistent results. Use measuring cups and spoons for accuracy, especially with spices and liquids.
• Forgetting about resting time: Allowing the meatballs to rest before serving helps retain moisture. Let them sit for a few minutes after cooking for juicier meatballs.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store the French Onion Chicken Meatballs in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing French Onion Chicken Meatballs

• Place cooled meatballs in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Be sure to label with the date!

Reheating French Onion Chicken Meatballs

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat meatballs on a baking sheet for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe dish covered with a damp paper towel for about 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of beef broth if needed, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are French Onion Chicken Meatballs?

French Onion Chicken Meatballs are savory ground chicken meatballs infused with flavors from caramelized onions and cheese, creating a delicious twist on classic meatballs.

How do I make French Onion Chicken Meatballs gluten-free?

You can easily make this recipe gluten-free by using almond meal instead of breadcrumbs as listed in the ingredients.

Can I use other meats in this recipe?

Yes! You can substitute ground turkey or beef if you prefer a different flavor profile while keeping the essence of the dish intact.

How long does it take to cook French Onion Chicken Meatballs?

The total time from prep to serving is about 1 hour, with approximately 15 minutes of prep and 45 minutes of cooking time.

Can I add vegetables to my meatball mixture?

Absolutely! Adding finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers or carrots can enhance flavor and nutrition without compromising texture.

Final Thoughts

These French Onion Chicken Meatballs are not only delicious but also versatile, making them perfect for appetizers or main meals. Feel free to customize them by adding your favorite herbs or spices. Enjoy this hearty dish at your next gathering!