If you’re a fan of French onion dip, these French onion chicken meatballs will quickly become your new favorite comfort food. With a crispy golden exterior and juicy, flavorful interior, they’re the perfect combination of savory chicken and rich French onion flavor. Whether you’re making them for a weeknight dinner or meal prepping for the week, these meatballs are sure to please everyone at the table!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup French onion dip (store-bought or homemade)
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with non-stick spray.
- In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, chopped onion, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until everything is evenly incorporated.
- Form the mixture into meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter, and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Brown the meatballs on all sides for about 5 minutes. Transfer them to the oven and bake for an additional 10–12 minutes, or until fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
- While the meatballs are baking, heat the French onion dip in the same skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally until warm.
- Once the meatballs are done, drizzle the warm French onion dip over the top before serving.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Kcal: 310
Servings: 4
The History of French Onion Chicken Meatballs
French Onion Chicken Meatballs are a delightful twist on the classic French onion soup, blending the savory flavors of caramelized onions with tender ground chicken to create a comforting and satisfying dish. This recipe is inspired by French onion soup’s rich, umami flavor, which is achieved through slow-cooked onions and the addition of a creamy dip to bring it all together. Although this dish has modern roots, it showcases the versatility of French onion flavors, making it a perfect fit for busy weeknight meals or casual family dinners.
Why You’ll Love These Meatballs
- Rich, Savory Flavor: The combination of French onion dip, caramelized onions, and Dijon mustard infuses these meatballs with a deep, savory flavor that tastes like a restaurant-quality dish but is easy to prepare at home.
- Healthy Option: With ground chicken as the base, these meatballs are lower in fat than those made with beef or pork, while still being incredibly juicy and flavorful.
- Versatile: Serve these meatballs as an appetizer, on a sandwich, or over a bed of rice or mashed potatoes for a satisfying meal. You can also enjoy them with a side of vegetables for a low-carb option.
- Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in less than 45 minutes, making it ideal for busy families, meal preppers, or anyone in need of a delicious, fuss-free dinner.
Tips for Perfect French Onion Chicken Meatballs
- For Extra Flavor: If you prefer a stronger onion flavor, sauté the chopped onions until they’re caramelized before mixing them into the meatball mixture. This will add a richer sweetness to the meatballs.
- Add Some Cheese: Try adding a little shredded Gruyère or Swiss cheese into the meatball mixture or sprinkling some on top of the meatballs during the last few minutes of baking for a gooey, cheesy topping.
- Use Homemade French Onion Dip: While store-bought French onion dip is convenient, homemade versions can elevate the dish with fresh ingredients and extra customization. You can easily make your own dip by combining sour cream, mayonnaise, French onion soup mix, and a squeeze of lemon juice.
- Make Ahead: These meatballs can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. You can also freeze them before or after cooking. Just be sure to store them in an airtight container, and they’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months in the freezer.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?
Yes, ground turkey can be used as a substitute for ground chicken. It has a similar texture and will still produce juicy meatballs.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. You can also freeze the meatballs for up to 3 months. Simply reheat in the microwave or in a skillet with a little bit of oil.
Can I make these meatballs gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or oat flour to replace the regular breadcrumbs. You can also check the ingredients of the French onion dip to ensure it’s gluten-free.
Variations and Customizations
1. Add Herbs:
For a fresh twist, incorporate herbs such as thyme or rosemary into the meatball mixture. These herbs complement the rich onion flavor and enhance the overall depth of the dish.
2. Make It Spicy:
If you enjoy a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some finely chopped jalapeños to the mixture. The spiciness balances out the creamy richness of the French onion dip.
3. Use Ground Turkey:
If you prefer a leaner option than chicken, ground turkey works well as a substitute. It’ll still retain the dish’s tenderness and flavor without the extra fat.
4. Cheese Variations:
Although Parmesan adds a nice savory bite, feel free to swap it with other cheeses like mozzarella, cheddar, or a mix of your favorite cheeses. A melted cheese topping just before serving will create an irresistible crust.
5. Gluten-Free Version:
For those with dietary restrictions, swap the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or a mixture of ground almonds (almond flour) and Parmesan cheese for a low-carb alternative.
Serving Suggestions
1. Over Rice or Mashed Potatoes:
These meatballs pair wonderfully with starchy sides like creamy mashed potatoes or fluffy rice. The rich flavors of the French onion dip create a delicious sauce that complements the meatballs and soaks into the side dishes.
2. As a Sandwich:
For a hearty lunch or dinner, serve the French onion chicken meatballs in a toasted baguette or sandwich roll. Add some melted Swiss cheese and a little extra French onion dip for a French onion meatball sub.
3. On a Salad:
For a lighter option, serve these meatballs over a fresh green salad with a drizzle of the warm French onion dip on top. The meatballs make the salad more filling while the dip adds a creamy texture.
4. With Roasted Vegetables:
Pair these meatballs with roasted vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or Brussels sprouts for a well-rounded meal that’s both healthy and delicious.
Meal Prep and Storage
Make Ahead:
This recipe is perfect for meal prep. You can form the meatballs and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking. Alternatively, bake the meatballs and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing Instructions:
For longer storage, freeze the uncooked meatballs on a baking sheet for about an hour. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, simply bake from frozen, adding 5–10 extra minutes to the cooking time.
Reheating Tips:
To reheat, place the meatballs in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. If you’re reheating in a skillet, add a little extra French onion dip to keep the meatballs moist.
Nutritional Information
Calories per Serving (Approximate): 250-300 kcal
This makes it a relatively light dish, depending on the side dishes you choose. The ground chicken keeps the calories low, while the French onion dip adds rich, creamy flavor without too much extra fat.
Protein: High in protein, these meatballs are an excellent option for anyone looking to increase their protein intake without loading up on unhealthy fats.
Fat: Because the recipe uses lean ground chicken, the fat content is kept to a minimum. However, the dip does add some creamy texture and richness, which is why it’s important to be mindful of the serving size.
Pairing Wine
French Onion Chicken Meatballs go beautifully with a variety of wines, especially those with a bit of acidity to balance the richness. A few options to consider:
- Chardonnay: A lightly oaked Chardonnay complements the creamy dip and the savory flavors of the meatballs.
- Sauvignon Blanc: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc can provide the acidity needed to cut through the richness while offering citrusy notes that pair well with the onions.
- Pinot Noir: If you prefer red wine, a light Pinot Noir with its subtle earthy tones can enhance the savory taste of the meatballs without overpowering them.
Conclusion
French Onion Chicken Meatballs combine rich, savory flavors with tender chicken for a delicious and versatile dish. Perfect for weeknight dinners, appetizers, or meal prep, this recipe is easy to make and can be customized to suit your tastes. Whether served with mashed potatoes, in a sandwich, or on a salad, these meatballs are sure to be a hit with family and friends. Give it a try and enjoy the comfort of French onion soup in a fun, bite-sized form!