French Onion Chicken Meatballs

These French Onion Chicken Meatballs are a delightful blend of flavors that will elevate any meal. Perfect for appetizers at parties or a cozy family dinner, these meatballs combine the rich taste of French onion soup with tender chicken. With melted cheese and a savory broth, they are guaranteed to impress your guests or satisfy your cravings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavor-packed: The mix of beef broth, onions, and cheeses creates a mouthwatering taste.
• Easy to prepare: Just combine the ingredients and let the oven do the work.
• Versatile: Enjoy them as an appetizer, main dish, or in a sub sandwich.
• Healthy option: Made with lean ground chicken, these meatballs offer a lighter alternative without sacrificing flavor.
• Great for gatherings: These meatballs can be made ahead and served warm, making them ideal for parties.

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Tools and Preparation

To make these French Onion Chicken Meatballs successfully, you will need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes preparation easier and ensures great results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large bowl is crucial for combining all your ingredients thoroughly.
• Skillet: A good skillet helps caramelize the onions evenly for maximum flavor.
• Meatball scoop: This tool ensures uniform meatballs that cook evenly.

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 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 thoroughly until everything is well combined.

Step 3: Form the Meatballs

Using a 1½-inch scoop:
– Form meatballs and place them evenly spaced on the parchment-lined 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 bake:
– In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and butter.
– Add thinly sliced onions and cook until very soft and golden brown—about 25 minutes. Stir frequently to avoid burning.

Step 5: Add Garlic and Seasonings

Once onions are cooked:
– Add minced garlic to the skillet and cook for one more minute.
– Stir in beef broth, fresh thyme, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Bring mixture to a boil before reducing heat to simmer for about five minutes until slightly thickened.

Step 6: Combine Meatballs with Sauce

Add baked meatballs to the skillet:
– Cook for about five minutes in the sauce.
– Sprinkle shredded cheese over meatballs and cover pan until melted—this takes approximately 3-5 minutes.

Serve warm and garnish with fresh thyme for added flavor!

How to Serve French Onion Chicken Meatballs

Serving French Onion Chicken Meatballs can elevate any meal or gathering. These meatballs are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways, allowing you to impress your guests with minimal effort.

As a Standalone Appetizer

• Serve them warm on a platter with toothpicks for easy eating.
• Pair with a tangy dipping sauce or a creamy ranch for added flavor.

On a Bed of Mashed Potatoes

• Spoon the meatballs and gravy over creamy mashed potatoes.
• The potatoes soak up the delicious sauce, making it a comforting dish.

In a Submarine Sandwich

• Place the meatballs in a toasted sub roll.
• Top with melted cheese and caramelized onions for an indulgent sandwich.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

• Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or thyme on top before serving.
• This adds color and enhances the flavors of your dish.

How to Perfect French Onion Chicken Meatballs

To create the best French Onion Chicken Meatballs, follow these essential tips. They will help you achieve maximum flavor and texture.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh herbs and vegetables enhance the overall taste of the meatballs.
• Don’t overmix: Mixing too much can make the meatballs tough. Combine just until everything is incorporated.
• Monitor baking time: Keep an eye on your meatballs while baking to avoid overcooking; they should reach 165°F internally.
• Experiment with cheeses: Mixing Gruyère and Havarti gives depth, but feel free to try others based on your preference.
• Let them rest: Allowing the cooked meatballs to sit for a few minutes before serving helps retain their juices.

Best Side Dishes for French Onion Chicken Meatballs

Pairing side dishes with your French Onion Chicken Meatballs can enhance your meal’s overall experience. Here are some fantastic options to consider.

1. Garlic Bread: Serve warm garlic bread to soak up the delicious gravy from the meatballs.
2. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted until tender complements the hearty flavors of the meatballs.
3. Caesar Salad: The crispness of romaine lettuce and creamy dressing balances the richness of the meatballs.
4. Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf infused with herbs pairs well, providing a light contrast.
5. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and freshness that cuts through the savory flavors.
6. Steamed Green Beans: Simple steamed green beans offer color and nutrition without overwhelming flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making French Onion Chicken Meatballs, it’s easy to overlook some key details. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Ignoring the meat mixture: Ensure all ingredients are mixed thoroughly. This helps maintain a consistent texture and flavor throughout the meatballs.
• Skipping the baking step: Baking meatballs before adding them to the sauce is crucial. This helps them hold their shape and enhances their flavor.
• Overcooking the onions: Cook onions on medium heat until soft and golden, but not burnt. Properly caramelized onions add a sweet depth to your dish.
• Using low-quality cheese: Opt for good quality Gruyère and Havarti cheese. Using better cheese elevates the taste of your French Onion Chicken Meatballs significantly.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Precision matters! Measure your ingredients carefully to achieve the perfect balance of flavors.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• They last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing French Onion Chicken Meatballs

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

Reheating French Onion Chicken Meatballs

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place meatballs on a baking sheet and heat for 15-20 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently until heated through.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of broth or water, stirring occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about French Onion Chicken Meatballs.

Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for ground chicken. It will still yield delicious meatballs with a slightly different flavor.

How do I customize my French Onion Chicken Meatballs?

Feel free to add herbs like oregano or basil, or incorporate different cheeses based on your preference. Experimenting can lead to amazing variations!

What should I serve with these meatballs?

Pair them with crusty bread, a fresh salad, or serve them over pasta or rice for a complete meal.

Are these meatballs gluten-free?

Yes, if you use almond meal instead of breadcrumbs, these French Onion Chicken Meatballs can be made gluten-free!

Final Thoughts

These French Onion Chicken Meatballs are not only flavorful but also versatile. They make for an ideal appetizer or main course. You can customize them to suit your tastes and dietary needs. Give this recipe a try; you’re sure to love it!