French Onion Chicken Meatballs

These French Onion Chicken Meatballs are a delightful and hearty dish that brings together the classic flavors of French onion soup with the comfort of chicken meatballs. They’re perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a party, enjoying a cozy family dinner, or simply craving something delicious. The combination of tender meatballs smothered in a rich onion sauce topped with melted cheese makes this recipe a standout.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: These meatballs come together quickly and easily, making them perfect for weeknight dinners.
• Flavor Packed: The blend of savory onions, garlic, and herbs creates a robust flavor that will impress your family and friends.
• Versatile Dish: Serve them as an appetizer, main course, or even as part of a party platter—these meatballs fit any occasion.
• Cheesy Goodness: The melted Gruyère and Havarti cheeses create a creamy topping that takes these meatballs to the next level.
• Healthy Option: Made with lean ground chicken, these meatballs are a lighter choice without sacrificing taste.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools on hand is essential. Here are some key items you’ll need to prepare your French Onion Chicken Meatballs.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large bowl allows for easy mixing of ingredients without spilling.
• Baking sheet: This ensures even cooking and browning of the meatballs.
• Skillet: Ideal for sautéing onions and simmering the sauce to perfection.

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, combine all meatball ingredients:
1. Add the ground chicken.
2. Stir in Parmesan cheese, almond meal (or breadcrumbs), parsley, chopped onion, egg, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Mix until everything is well combined.

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 15-20 minutes or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.

Step 4: Cook the Onions

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

Step 5: Add Garlic and Seasonings

Once onions are caramelized:
– Stir in minced garlic; cook for an additional minute.
– Pour in beef broth along with 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

After baking:
– Add baked meatballs into the skillet with the onion sauce.
– Cook together for about 5 minutes.

Step 7: Melt Cheese on Top

Finally:
– Sprinkle Gruyère and Havarti cheese over the meatballs.
– Cover the pan until cheese melts (approximately 3-5 minutes).

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

How to Serve French Onion Chicken Meatballs

French Onion Chicken Meatballs are a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you are hosting a party or enjoying a cozy dinner, these meatballs can be served with delightful accompaniments.

With Pasta

• Tossed with spaghetti: Serve the meatballs over a bed of cooked spaghetti and drizzle with sauce for a hearty meal.
• Creamy fettuccine: Pair with fettuccine Alfredo for a rich and comforting dish.

On a Submarine Roll

• Meatball sub sandwich: Place the meatballs in a toasted submarine roll, top with marinara sauce, and sprinkle with extra cheese for a delicious handheld treat.

As an Appetizer

• Skewered bites: Insert toothpicks into each meatball for easy serving at parties or game day gatherings.
• Cheese platter companion: Add these meatballs to a cheese board alongside crackers and fruits for an elegant appetizer option.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

• Fresh thyme or parsley: Garnish the meatballs with fresh herbs to enhance their flavor and presentation.

With Rice or Quinoa

• Served over rice: Pair the meatballs with steamed rice or quinoa to soak up the delicious broth.

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How to Perfect French Onion Chicken Meatballs

Creating the perfect French Onion Chicken Meatballs takes some attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out just right.

• Use lean ground chicken: Opting for 93% lean ground chicken keeps the meatballs tender without excess fat.
• Don’t skip the onion: Cooking onions until golden adds depth and sweetness, enhancing the overall flavor.
• Let them cool slightly: Allowing the meatballs to rest before serving helps maintain their shape.
• Experiment with cheeses: Mixing different cheeses like Gruyère and Havarti provides a unique creamy texture.
• Adjust seasoning as needed: Taste your mixture before baking and adjust salt and pepper to your preference.
• Keep them moist: Adding ingredients like almond meal or breadcrumbs helps retain moisture in each meatball.

Best Side Dishes for French Onion Chicken Meatballs

Pairing side dishes with French Onion Chicken Meatballs can elevate your meal experience. Here are some excellent options that complement their rich flavors.

1. Garlic Bread – A classic side that’s perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce from the dish.
2. Caesar Salad – Crisp romaine lettuce topped with Caesar dressing provides a refreshing contrast.
3. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal vegetables tossed in olive oil add color and nutrition to your plate.
4. Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes create a comforting pairing that balances the flavors.
5. Steamed Broccoli – A healthy green side that pairs well without overpowering the main dish.
6. Rice Pilaf – Fluffy rice pilaf seasoned with herbs complements the rich taste of the meatballs nicely.
7. Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and brightness, making it an interesting contrast.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making French Onion Chicken Meatballs can be a rewarding experience, but some common mistakes may hinder your dish’s success. Here are key pitfalls to avoid.

• Skipping the meatball mixing step: Properly mixing the ingredients is essential for the texture of your meatballs. Ensure everything is combined well for even flavor and consistency.
• Overcrowding the baking sheet: If meatballs are too close together, they won’t cook evenly. Space them out to allow for proper browning.
• Not monitoring cooking temperature: Always check that your meatballs reach an internal temperature of 165F. This ensures they are cooked thoroughly and safe to eat.
• Ignoring the resting time after baking: Letting meatballs rest allows juices to redistribute, enhancing flavor. Don’t skip this crucial step before serving.
• Using low-quality cheese: Cheese is a key component in this recipe. Opt for good-quality Gruyère and Havarti for the best melt and flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• item Store leftover French Onion Chicken Meatballs in an airtight container.
• item They can last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing French Onion Chicken Meatballs

• item Place cooled meatballs in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag.
• item They will keep well for up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating French Onion Chicken Meatballs

• Oven: Preheat to 350F and bake for about 15 minutes or until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently until warm.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of beef broth for moisture.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are French Onion Chicken Meatballs?

French Onion Chicken Meatballs are savory chicken meatballs infused with flavors of caramelized onions, garlic, and topped with melted cheese. They offer a delicious twist on traditional meatballs.

Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for ground chicken in this recipe. The flavors will still blend wonderfully with the onions and cheese.

How do I make these meatballs gluten-free?

To make French Onion Chicken Meatballs gluten-free, simply use almond meal instead of breadcrumbs. This keeps the recipe delicious without gluten.

What types of cheese work well?

While Gruyère and Havarti are recommended, you can also use Swiss or Mozzarella as alternatives. Choose cheeses that melt well for optimal results.

Can I prepare these ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can mix the ingredients and form the meatballs a day ahead. Store them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake them.

Final Thoughts

These French Onion Chicken Meatballs are not only flavorful but also versatile enough for various occasions. Whether as appetizers or part of a main dish, they can be customized with different herbs and spices to suit your taste. Try them today!