Looking for a flavor-packed, protein-rich dinner that brings all the bold richness of classic French onion soup—without bread or unnecessary carbs? These French Onion Chicken Meatballs are exactly what you need. With their savory herb-infused chicken base, caramelized onion flavor, and gooey cheese topping, this low-carb version delivers all the warmth and comfort of your favorite soup—in a handheld, keto-approved format.
Perfect for meal prep , weeknight dinners , or when you’re craving something hearty but staying in ketosis, these meatballs use simple ingredients like ground chicken, bone broth, and almond flour to bring bold European-inspired flavor into your kitchen. Whether you’re doing strict ketosis , following a low-carb lifestyle , or simply love rich, oniony meats with depth and richness, these French onion chicken meatballs will quickly become a go-to comfort dish in your weekly rotation.
In this article, we’ll walk you through how to make these perfect keto French onion chicken meatballs from scratch , explore ingredient substitutions, offer serving ideas, and answer your most common questions. Let’s get started!
Why You’ll Love These French Onion Chicken Meatballs
These aren’t just any old meatballs—they’re a savory, cheesy, melt-in-your-mouth delight made with real ingredients that bring bold texture and taste together beautifully—in under 40 minutes!
Here’s why they stand out:
- 🍗 Bold chicken base : Made with ground chicken or turkey for lean protein power.
- 🧅 Caramelized onion finish : Adds natural sweetness and depth without sugar spikes.
- 🧀 Cheesy topping option : Melted Gruyère or mozzarella gives stretch and richness.
- 🥣 Easy to make : Just mix, shape, and bake—no frying required!
- ⏱️ Ready in under 30–40 minutes
- 🧁 Great for batch cooking or freezer meals
- 🧼 Minimal cleanup : One bowl and one tray = easy prep!
Whether you’re making them for yourself after work, your family for dinner, or guests at a weekend brunch, these keto meatballs will quickly become a go-to comfort dish.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground chicken or turkey
- 1/2 cup finely chopped caramelized onions
- 1 egg (or flax egg for dairy-free option)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried thyme or rosemary
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Optional: 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese for extra umami
Tip: Add 1 tbsp crushed pork rinds or almond flour for better binding and texture.
For Serving (Optional):
- 1/2 cup beef or chicken broth (for dipping)
- 1/4 cup shredded Gruyère or mozzarella cheese
- Fresh thyme sprigs or chives for garnish
Optional: Bake with a drizzle of olive oil or butter for richer crust.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) . Line a baking sheet or rimmed tray with parchment paper or silicone liner.
Pro Tip: Use a wire rack over the baking sheet for even browning and crispier edges.
Step 2: Caramelize the Onions
Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a small amount of butter, ghee, or avocado oil.
Add finely chopped onions and cook slowly for 10–12 minutes , stirring occasionally until golden brown and sweet-smelling.
Set aside to cool slightly before mixing into the meatball blend.
Note: Don’t rush this step—it builds deep flavor!
Step 3: Mix the Meatball Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine:
- Ground chicken or turkey
- Caramelized onions
- Egg or flax egg
- Garlic powder
- Thyme
- Salt and pepper
Mix well using clean hands until fully incorporated.
Pro Tip: Press mixture firmly when shaping for better structure.
Step 4: Shape Into Meatballs
Using clean hands, form the mixture into 1-inch balls and place on the prepared baking sheet.
If desired, top each meatball with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese before baking.
Step 5: Bake Until Golden and Moist
Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 18–20 minutes , or until golden brown and cooked through.
Let rest for 5–10 minutes before serving to retain juices.
Step 6: Broil with Cheese (Optional)
For an extra French onion soup experience:
- Top meatballs with mozzarella or Gruyère cheese
- Broil for 2–3 minutes until bubbly and lightly browned
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve warm with a side of:
- Roasted mushrooms or zucchini
- Cauliflower mash
- A small bowl of warm broth for dipping
- Tzatziki or aioli for extra flair
Enjoy every soft, savory bite of your French Onion Chicken Meatballs !
Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Makes 4 Servings / ~6–8 meatballs)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~180 kcal |
| Total Fat | ~10 g |
| Saturated Fat | ~3 g |
| Cholesterol | ~60 mg |
| Sodium | ~300 mg |
| Total Carbs | ~4 g |
| Dietary Fiber | ~1 g |
| Net Carbs | ~3 g |
| Protein | ~20 g |
Note: Values may vary based on exact measurements and optional add-ins.
Tips for the Best French Onion Chicken Meatballs
- Use high-quality ground chicken or turkey – Helps maintain moisture and flavor.
- Don’t skip resting time – Keeps the meat moist and prevents dryness.
- Press firmly when shaping – Ensures the meatballs hold together during baking.
- Make ahead and store – Keeps best refrigerated in an airtight container.
- Double the batch for future meals – Great for lunch boxes or freezing later!
Variations & Customizations
Want to switch things up? Try these tasty variations:
Beef or Pork Version
Replace chicken with ground beef or pork for deeper flavor and juiciness.
Zucchini Meatballs
Mix in grated zucchini for added moisture and fiber.
No-Bake Energy Bites
Chill the mixture and roll into cold bites for grab-and-go snacks.
Vegan Option
Use plant-based chicken alternative, vegan cheese, and egg replacer.
Spicy Kick
Add hot sauce or red pepper flakes to the mixture for heat lovers.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Are these truly keto-friendly?
Yes! With only ~3g net carbs per serving , it fits perfectly within a ketogenic lifestyle.
Can I use regular breadcrumbs or flour?
Not recommended—standard flour and breadcrumbs are high in carbs. Stick with pork rinds or almond flour for keto compliance.
How do I store leftover meatballs?
Store cooled portions in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days . Reheat gently in the oven or air fryer for best results.
What kind of cheese works best?
Gruyère gives the richest flavor, but mozzarella, cheddar, or provolone also work great.
Can I freeze uncooked meatballs?
Yes! Chill first, then freeze raw meatballs on a tray before transferring to a bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding 2–3 extra minutes to cooking time.
Why This Recipe Works So Well
These French Onion Chicken Meatballs work because of their perfect balance of textures and bold flavors:
- The caramelized onions give signature sweetness and aroma , balancing the poultry naturally.
- The chicken holds together beautifully , soaking up the deep seasoning during baking.
- And the cheese topping melts into a rich, golden blanket , completing the French onion experience.
It’s the kind of dish that makes eating clean feel indulgent—because it tastes so good.
Serving Suggestions
Looking for creative ways to serve your keto meatballs beyond just a plate? Here are some ideas:
In Lettuce Cups
Wrap warm bites in large lettuce leaves for handheld eats.
Over Greens
Top arugula or kale with warm meatballs and a splash of balsamic glaze.
With Dipping Sauces
Try chipotle mayo, garlic aioli, or keto ranch dressing for extra flair.
At a Party
Cut into mini bites and arrange on a platter with toothpicks for appetizer-style servings.
As Leftovers
Crumble over mashed cauliflower or mix with eggs for fusion-style breakfast bowls.
Health Benefits of Key Ingredients
Let’s take a quick look at the health benefits of what makes this dish special:
Chicken (Ground or Turkey)
High in B vitamins and lean protein—supports muscle growth and satiety.
Caramelized Onions
Natural sugars are low-glycemic and full of antioxidants—great for digestion.
Gruyère / Mozzarella
Rich in calcium and healthy fats—important for brain function and bone strength.
Even though these are meatballs, they’re packed with nutrients that make them more than just a snack—it’s a smart addition to your balanced lifestyle when enjoyed mindfully.
Final Thoughts: A Must-Try Comfort Dish for Soup Lovers
These French Onion Chicken Meatballs prove that going low-carb doesn’t mean missing out on bold, comforting flavors. With their soft center, crispy shell, and signature cheesy finish, they’re the kind of treat that turns a simple meatball into something magical.
Whether you’re new to keto, looking for a fast weeknight dinner idea, or want to impress with homemade flair, these meatballs deserve a spot in your kitchen. They’re easy to make, customizable, and loved by kids and adults alike.
So go ahead—whip up a batch, share them with friends, or savor them solo. Either way, you’re treating yourself to something worth celebrating.
Print
French Onion Chicken Meatballs – Savory, Cheesy & Perfectly Low-Carb!
- Total Time: 1 hr
Description
Savory chicken meatballs infused with rich onion and cheese flavors!
Ingredients
1 egg
5 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon pepper
⅓ cup almond meal (or bread crumbs)
⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese
⅓ cup parsley, finely chopped
1 medium onion, finely chopped
1 pound 93% lean ground chicken
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons olive oil 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced 4 large garlic cloves, minced
1 ½ cups beef broth
1 tablespoon fresh thyme 1 teaspoon onion powder 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon ground black pepper 4 ounces shredded Gruyère cheese 6 ounces shredded Havarti cheese
Instructions
To Make The Meatballs:
Preheat oven to 400 degrees and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a large mixing bowl, combine all meatball ingredients: ground chicken, Parmesan cheese, almond meal, fresh chopped parsley, chopped onion, egg, garlic, salt and pepper. Mix until everything is combined. 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 internal temperature is 165F.
To Make The French Onion Sauce:
While the meatballs are baking: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil and butter. Add onions and cook until very soft and golden, 25 minutes, stirring often. Add the minced garlic and cook 1 more minute. Add beef broth, fresh thyme, onion powder, salt and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer until slightly thickened, about 5 minutes. Add the baked meatballs to the skillet and cook about 5 minutes. Sprinkle the cheese over the meatballs and cover the pan until it melts, about 3-5 minutes. Serve them warm, and garnish with fresh thyme.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 45 mins
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 8
- Calories: 384
- Fat: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Protein: 24g