French Onion Chicken Meatballs

These French Onion Chicken Meatballs are a delightful twist on a classic dish, perfect for gatherings or cozy family dinners. The combination of tender chicken meatballs infused with rich onion flavor creates an irresistible dish that everyone will love. Whether served as an appetizer or a main course, these meatballs shine with their unique taste and satisfying texture.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Incredible Flavor: The savory blend of onions, garlic, and herbs makes each bite burst with deliciousness.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can have this dish ready in no time.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy them alone, over pasta, or on a sub for a tasty sandwich.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy these meatballs, making them great for any occasion.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make a large batch ahead of time; they freeze well for future meals.

Tools and Preparation

Before starting your culinary adventure, gather your tools. Having the right equipment makes cooking easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Skillet
• Meatball scoop

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: Essential for thoroughly combining all the ingredients to ensure even flavor in every bite.
• Baking sheet: Provides an easy way to bake the meatballs evenly without sticking.
• Skillet: Perfect for creating the onion sauce that enhances the meatballs’ flavor while they cook.

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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 breadcrumbs 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 (or breadcrumbs), parsley, chopped onion, egg, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
2. Mix until everything is well combined.

Step 3: Form the Meatballs

Using a 1½-inch scoop:
* Form meatballs and place them evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet.
* Bake for 15–20 minutes or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.

Step 4: Cook the Onions

While the meatballs are baking:
1. In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and butter.
2. Add sliced onions and cook until very soft and golden—about 25 minutes—stirring frequently.

Step 5: Add Garlic and Seasonings

Once the onions are golden:
* Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
* Stir in beef broth, fresh thyme, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
* Bring to a boil then reduce heat; simmer until slightly thickened—about 5 minutes.

Step 6: Combine Meatballs with Sauce

Add the baked meatballs to the skillet:
* Cook for about 5 minutes in the sauce.
* Sprinkle shredded cheeses over the top; cover the pan until melted—about 3–5 minutes.

Serve warm and garnish with fresh thyme for an extra burst of flavor! Enjoy your delicious French Onion Chicken Meatballs!

How to Serve French Onion Chicken Meatballs

These French Onion Chicken Meatballs are perfect for various occasions. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a cozy family dinner, serving them creatively can enhance the experience.

As an Appetizer

• Serve on toothpicks for easy snacking during parties. Guests will love the bite-sized portions.

Over Mashed Potatoes

• Place the meatballs over creamy mashed potatoes for a comforting meal. The rich broth and cheese pair beautifully with the soft texture of the potatoes.

With Pasta

• Toss the meatballs with your favorite pasta and drizzle with extra broth for a delicious main course. This creates a hearty dish that’s sure to please.

On a Sub Roll

• Create a meatball sub by placing them in a toasted roll and adding melted cheese. This makes for a delightful handheld meal.

With Fresh Salad

• Serve alongside a fresh garden salad for a lighter option. The crisp vegetables provide a nice contrast to the warm, savory meatballs.

How to Perfect French Onion Chicken Meatballs

Perfecting your French Onion Chicken Meatballs can take your dish to new heights. Follow these tips for delicious results every time.

• Use Lean Ground Chicken: Opting for 93% lean ground chicken ensures that your meatballs stay juicy without excess fat.

• Don’t Skip the Parsley: Fresh parsley adds vibrant flavor and color to your meatballs, making them more appealing and tasty.

• Sauté Onions Slowly: Cooking onions slowly allows their natural sweetness to develop, enhancing the overall flavor of the dish.

• Experiment with Cheeses: Try different cheeses like mozzarella or cheddar if Gruyère and Havarti aren’t available; each brings its unique taste profile.

• Check Internal Temperature: Always ensure your meatballs reach an internal temperature of 165°F for food safety and optimal texture.

Best Side Dishes for French Onion Chicken Meatballs

Pairing side dishes with your French Onion Chicken Meatballs can elevate your meal. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Garlic Bread: A classic choice that’s perfect for soaking up any extra broth from the meatballs.

2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add color and nutrition, complementing the richness of the meatballs.

3. Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf provides a neutral base that balances out flavors while adding texture.

4. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli offers a healthy crunch, making it an excellent counterpoint to the soft meatballs.

5. Cauliflower Mash: A low-carb alternative to traditional mashed potatoes, this creamy dish pairs well with the savory flavors of the meatballs.

6. Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad introduces grains into your meal while providing additional nutrients and fiber.

7. Crispy Potato Wedges: Baked potato wedges add crunch and heartiness that complements the soft textures of the dish nicely.

8. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw can provide brightness and acidity, cutting through the richness of the cheese-laden 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.

• Skipping the seasoning – Failing to season your meatball mixture can lead to bland flavor. Always taste and adjust seasonings before cooking.
• Overmixing the meat – Overworking the chicken can result in tough meatballs. Mix just until combined for tender results.
• Not using a proper size scoop – Using an inconsistent scoop size can cause uneven cooking. Stick to a 1½-inch scoop for uniform meatballs.
• Ignoring cooking time – Cooking meatballs at the wrong temperature or for too long can dry them out. Bake until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
• Forgetting about the sauce – The sauce is crucial for flavor; don’t skip simmering it properly. Allow it to thicken slightly before adding the meatballs.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing French Onion Chicken Meatballs

• To freeze, place cooled meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet.
• Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating French Onion Chicken Meatballs

• Oven – Preheat your oven to 350°F and reheat meatballs for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave – Place meatballs in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat for 1-2 minutes or until hot.
• Stovetop – Gently reheat meatballs in a skillet over medium heat with some beef broth until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making French Onion Chicken Meatballs.

Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for ground chicken without changing the recipe significantly.

What cheese can I use besides Gruyère?

You can use mozzarella or provolone as alternatives if you prefer different flavors or textures.

How do I ensure my French Onion Chicken Meatballs stay moist?

Make sure not to overmix your ingredients and consider adding a bit more broth if needed.

Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare them in advance and store them in the fridge or freezer until you’re ready to cook.

What sides pair well with French Onion Chicken Meatballs?

These meatballs go great with mashed potatoes, rice, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

These French Onion Chicken Meatballs are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them by adding different herbs or spices based on your preference. Try this recipe today and enjoy its rich flavors!