French Onion Chicken Meatballs

These French Onion Chicken Meatballs are a delightful twist on a classic dish. They bring together the savory flavors of French onion soup and juicy chicken meatballs, making them perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, looking for a comforting weeknight dinner, or need a delicious appetizer, these meatballs will impress your guests and satisfy your taste buds with their rich flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Incredible Flavor: The combination of ground chicken and caramelized onions creates a mouthwatering taste experience.
• Easy to Make: With simple steps and minimal prep time, you can whip up these meatballs without stress.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as an appetizer or a main course, they fit seamlessly into various meal plans.
• Rich in Protein: Made with lean ground chicken, these meatballs are filling and nutritious.
• Cheesy Goodness: Topped with melted Gruyère and Havarti cheeses, each bite is creamy and satisfying.

Tools and Preparation

Preparing these French Onion Chicken Meatballs requires just a few essential tools to make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Skillet
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large bowl allows you to combine all ingredients easily without mess.
• Baking sheet: Ensures even cooking and prevents sticking when baking the meatballs.
• Skillet: Ideal for sautéing onions to achieve that delicious caramelization before adding the meatballs.

Ingredients

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

Ingredients:
– 1 egg
– 5 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon pepper
– 1/3 cup almond meal (for gluten-free version) or bread crumbs
– 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/3 cup parsley, finely chopped
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 1 pound 93% lean ground chicken
– 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
– 4 ounces shredded Gruyère cheese
– 6 ounces shredded Havarti cheese

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 ground chicken, grated Parmesan cheese, almond meal (or bread crumbs), parsley, chopped onion, egg, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
2. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.

Step 3: Form the Meatballs

Using a 1½-inch scoop, form meatballs from the mixture:
* Place them evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet.
* Bake for about 15–20 minutes, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.

Step 4: Sauté the Onions

While the meatballs are baking:
1. In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and butter.
2. Add thinly sliced yellow onions.
3. Cook for about 25 minutes, stirring often until onions are very soft and golden brown.

Step 5: Add Garlic and Broth

After the onions are done:
1. Add minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional minute.
2. Pour in beef broth along with fresh thyme, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Bring to a boil then reduce heat; let it simmer until slightly thickened (about 5 minutes).

Step 6: Combine Meatballs with Sauce

Once the meatballs are baked:
1. Add them to the skillet with onion sauce.
2. Cook together for about 5 minutes.
3. Sprinkle shredded Gruyère and Havarti cheeses over the top; cover until melted (about 3–5 minutes).

Serve warm garnished with fresh thyme for an extra touch! Enjoy your delicious French Onion Chicken Meatballs!

How to Serve French Onion Chicken Meatballs

These French Onion Chicken Meatballs are incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways. Whether you want a casual meal or an elegant appetizer, these serving ideas will enhance your dining experience.

As a Main Course

• Serve the meatballs over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes for a comforting meal.
• Pair with pasta, such as spaghetti or fettuccine, and drizzle with the savory onion sauce for a delicious twist.

In a Sandwich

• Place meatballs in a toasted sub roll and top with melted cheese for a hearty sandwich.
• Add sautéed onions and a sprinkle of fresh herbs for an extra flavor kick.

On Skewers

• Thread meatballs onto skewers along with grilled vegetables for a fun and easy-to-eat option.
• Drizzle with balsamic glaze for added sweetness and depth.

As Appetizers

• Serve meatballs on toothpicks with a side of dipping sauce for easy snacking at parties.
• Arrange on a platter with fresh parsley for an elegant touch.

How to Perfect French Onion Chicken Meatballs

To achieve the best flavor and texture in your French Onion Chicken Meatballs, consider these helpful tips.

• Use lean ground chicken: Opting for 93% lean ground chicken ensures that your meatballs remain juicy without being greasy.
• Chill the mixture: Allowing the meatball mixture to chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes helps it hold together better during baking.
• Don’t overmix: Mix just until combined; overmixing can lead to tough meatballs.
• Monitor cooking time: Keep an eye on the baking time to ensure the meatballs reach 165°F without drying out.
• Experiment with cheese: Try different cheeses like mozzarella or cheddar to find your favorite combination for topping.

Best Side Dishes for French Onion Chicken Meatballs

Complement your French Onion Chicken Meatballs with these delicious side dishes that enhance their rich flavors.

1. Garlic Bread: Perfectly toasted bread slathered in garlic butter pairs well and soaks up the tasty sauce.
2. Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized adds color and nutrition to your meal.
3. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed in Caesar dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the hearty meatballs.
4. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with fresh herbs adds a nutritious boost while maintaining balance on your plate.
5. Creamy Polenta: Smooth polenta is an excellent base that absorbs all the delicious flavors from the sauce.
6. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and freshness, balancing the rich taste of the meatballs.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making French Onion Chicken Meatballs, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to ensure your meatballs turn out perfectly.

• Using the wrong ground meat: Ensure you use lean ground chicken for the best flavor and texture. Substituting with higher-fat meats may lead to greasy meatballs.
• Overmixing the ingredients: Mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough meatballs, which are less enjoyable.
• Skipping the onion caramelization: Properly caramelizing onions adds depth of flavor. Don’t rush this step; it enhances your dish significantly.
• Neglecting seasoning: Don’t forget to season your mixture adequately. Under-seasoned meatballs will lack flavor, so taste and adjust as needed.
• Not checking the internal temperature: Always use a meat thermometer. Meatballs should reach an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover French Onion Chicken Meatballs in an airtight container.
• They can be kept in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing French Onion Chicken Meatballs

• Place cooled meatballs in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating French Onion Chicken Meatballs

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F and bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals, checking frequently until warm.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of broth, cover, and warm through, stirring occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are French Onion Chicken Meatballs?

French Onion Chicken Meatballs are delicious meatballs made with ground chicken, caramelized onions, and flavored with herbs and spices, topped with melted cheese.

Can I make these meatballs gluten-free?

Yes! You can use almond meal instead of breadcrumbs for a gluten-free option while keeping the flavor intact.

How do I customize my French Onion Chicken Meatballs?

Feel free to add your favorite herbs like rosemary or dill or even mix in different cheeses for varied flavors.

Are French Onion Chicken Meatballs suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! These meatballs store well and make for great leftovers throughout the week.

Can I substitute chicken with another type of meat?

Yes! You can easily swap ground chicken for turkey or even beef if you prefer a different flavor profile.

Final Thoughts

These French Onion Chicken Meatballs are not only hearty but also incredibly versatile. They make a great appetizer or main dish and can be customized with different spices and cheeses. Give them a try—you won’t be disappointed!