French Onion Chicken Meatballs

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There’s so much to adore about French Onion Chicken Meatballs. Here’s why they’re a must-try:

  1. Flavor-Packed : The combination of caramelized onions, herbs, and gooey cheese delivers bold, comforting flavors.
  2. Juicy and Tender : Ground chicken creates a lighter alternative to beef while staying moist and flavorful.
  3. Quick and Easy : Ready in under 45 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute meals.
  4. Kid-Friendly : Even picky eaters will love these cheesy, savory bites.
  5. Versatile : Serve them as an appetizer, main course, or even tucked into sandwiches or wraps.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The secret to these flavorful meatballs lies in their simple yet indulgent combination of ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Meatballs:

  • 1 lb ground chicken (or turkey for a leaner option)
  • ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 cup caramelized onions (see instructions below)
  • 2 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme)
  • Salt and pepper (to taste)

For Caramelized Onions:

  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 large yellow onions (thinly sliced)
  • 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, for added sweetness)
  • Salt and pepper (to taste)

For Topping:

  • 1 cup shredded Gruyère or Swiss cheese (mozzarella works too!)

Optional Sauce:

  • Beef or chicken broth (for dipping or drizzling)
  • Sour cream or Greek yogurt (mixed with a splash of broth for a creamy sauce)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Ready to whip up these flavor-packed meatballs? Follow these easy steps:

Step 1: Caramelize the Onions

  1. Heat the butter in a large skillet over medium-low heat.
  2. Add the sliced onions, sugar, salt, and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 20–25 minutes, until golden brown and caramelized. If the onions stick, add a splash of water or broth to deglaze the pan.
  3. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before using in the meatball mixture.

Step 2: Prepare the Meatball Mixture

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, caramelized onions, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined—do not overmix, as this can make the meatballs dense.

Step 3: Shape the Meatballs

  1. Use a cookie scoop or your hands to form the mixture into 1 ½-inch balls (about 20 meatballs total). Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Step 4: Bake the Meatballs

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) .
  2. Bake the meatballs for 15–18 minutes , or until cooked through and lightly golden.

Step 5: Add the Cheese

  1. Remove the meatballs from the oven and sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the top of each meatball.
  2. Return to the oven for 2–3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

  1. Transfer the meatballs to a serving platter.
  2. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley, if desired.
  3. Serve warm with toothpicks for easy snacking or alongside your favorite dipping sauce.

Why This Recipe Works So Well

The magic of French Onion Chicken Meatballs lies in their balance of flavors and textures. The caramelized onions provide natural sweetness and umami depth, while the herbs and garlic add aromatic complexity. The gooey melted cheese ties everything together with its rich, creamy finish, creating a dish that’s as indulgent as it is comforting—a true crowd-pleaser.



 

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