French Onion Chicken Meatballs

These French Onion Chicken Meatballs are a delightful twist on the classic French onion soup, combining savory flavors with tender chicken. Perfect for gatherings or cozy dinners, these meatballs are not only delicious but also easy to prepare. The rich broth and melted cheese create a comforting dish that everyone will love. Serve them as appetizers or main course, and watch your guests rave about their incredible taste!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Incredible Flavor: The combination of caramelized onions and rich beef broth creates a depth of flavor that is truly satisfying.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these meatballs can be whipped up in no time.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy them as an appetizer, main course, or even in pasta dishes for a unique twist.
• Cheesy Goodness: The melted Gruyère and Havarti cheeses add a creamy texture that makes every bite irresistible.
• Healthy Option: Made with lean ground chicken, this recipe provides a healthier alternative without sacrificing taste.

Tools and Preparation

To ensure your cooking experience is smooth and enjoyable, gather the following tools before you start.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Provides even cooking for your meatballs and minimizes mess during baking.
• Mixing bowl: A large bowl allows you to easily combine all ingredients without spilling.
• Skillet: Perfect for sautéing onions and simmering the sauce for maximum flavor infusion.

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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 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 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 the Cheese 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 the ground chicken, grated Parmesan cheese, almond meal (or bread crumbs), chopped parsley, finely chopped onion, egg, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
2. Mix all ingredients until 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: 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 onions and cook until very soft and golden brown for about 25 minutes. Stir often to avoid burning.

Step 5: Add Garlic and Broth

After onions are ready:
– Add minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional minute.
– Pour in beef broth along with fresh thyme, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.

Step 6: Simmer the Sauce

Reduce heat after boiling:
– Let it simmer until slightly thickened for about 5 minutes.

Step 7: Combine Meatballs with Sauce

Add baked meatballs into the skillet:
– Cook them in the sauce for about 5 minutes.
– Sprinkle shredded Gruyère and Havarti cheeses over the top.
– Cover the pan until cheese melts (about 3-5 minutes). Serve warm garnished with fresh thyme.

Enjoy your delightful French Onion Chicken Meatballs!

How to Serve French Onion Chicken Meatballs

These French Onion Chicken Meatballs are versatile and can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply enjoying a cozy dinner at home, here are some delightful serving suggestions.

On a Bed of Rice

• Serve the meatballs over steamed rice for a filling meal. The broth will soak into the rice, adding flavor.

As Appetizers

• Skewer the meatballs with toothpicks for an easy appetizer. They are perfect for parties and casual get-togethers.

With Crusty Bread

• Pair the meatballs with fresh bread. Use it to soak up the delicious broth and enjoy every bite.

In a Sub Sandwich

• Place the meatballs in a toasted sub roll, top with melted cheese, and enjoy a hearty sandwich that’s great for lunch or dinner.

Over Mashed Potatoes

• Serve the meatballs on creamy mashed potatoes. The savory sauce complements the potatoes beautifully.

How to Perfect French Onion Chicken Meatballs

For an even more delicious outcome, consider these tips to elevate your French Onion Chicken Meatballs.

• Use lean ground chicken: Opt for 93% lean ground chicken for moist yet healthy meatballs that won’t dry out during cooking.

• Finely chop onions: Ensure your onions are finely chopped for better integration into the meatball mixture, enhancing flavor and texture.

• Preheat your oven: Always preheat your oven to ensure even cooking and a nice golden color on your meatballs.

• Don’t skip resting time: Allow the cooked meatballs to rest before serving to let flavors meld together and maintain juiciness.

Best Side Dishes for French Onion Chicken Meatballs

Complement your French Onion Chicken Meatballs with these delicious side dishes that balance out the meal perfectly.

1. Garlic Mashed Cauliflower
   A low-carb alternative to traditional mashed potatoes, this dish is creamy and packed with flavor.

2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts
   Crisp-tender Brussels sprouts enhance your meal with their nutty flavor when roasted until golden brown.

3. Herb Quinoa Salad
   A light and refreshing quinoa salad mixed with herbs adds a nutritious touch alongside your hearty meatballs.

4. Steamed Green Beans
   Simple yet elegant, steamed green beans provide a vibrant color and crunch to your plate.

5. Crispy Sweet Potato Fries
   These sweet potato fries offer a healthy twist on traditional fries with their natural sweetness.

6. Classic Caesar Salad
   A crisp Caesar salad balances the richness of the meatballs while adding fresh flavors to your meal.

7. Creamy Polenta
   Silky polenta makes an excellent base for saucy dishes like these meatballs, soaking up all that delicious broth.

8. Mediterranean Couscous
   Fluffy couscous mixed with vegetables offers a flavorful side that pairs well with the savory meatballs.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Creating the perfect French Onion Chicken Meatballs can be a delight, but avoiding common pitfalls will make your cooking experience even better.

• Skipping the egg: The egg is crucial for binding the meatball ingredients together. Don’t omit it; otherwise, your meatballs may fall apart during cooking.
• Overmixing the meat: Mixing too much can result in tough meatballs. Gently combine the ingredients until just mixed for a tender texture.
• Using the wrong cheese: Not all cheeses melt well. Stick with Gruyère or Havarti for the best creamy topping that enhances flavor.
• Not letting the onions caramelize: Rushing this step can lead to bland flavors. Cook onions slowly until golden brown for a rich taste.
• Ignoring temperature checks: Always check that your meatballs reach an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure they are safe to eat.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Keep leftovers in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing French Onion Chicken Meatballs

• Freeze cooked meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe container.
• They can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating French Onion Chicken Meatballs

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake covered with foil for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between, until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Gently warm them in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth if needed to keep them moist.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making French Onion Chicken Meatballs.

Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?

Yes, ground turkey is a great substitute for chicken and will work well in this recipe.

How do I ensure my French Onion Chicken Meatballs are juicy?

Make sure not to overmix the ingredients and include enough moisture from sources like onion and broth.

Can I prepare these meatballs ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare and form the meatballs in advance and refrigerate or freeze them until you’re ready to cook.

What can I serve with French Onion Chicken Meatballs?

These meatballs pair wonderfully with pasta, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread for dipping into the savory sauce.

Are there any vegetarian alternatives for this recipe?

For a vegetarian version, you can replace chicken with plant-based ground meat and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

Final Thoughts

These French Onion Chicken Meatballs are not only flavorful but also versatile. They make a fantastic appetizer or main dish. Feel free to customize by adding your favorite herbs or spices. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a delicious meal that everyone will love!