Looking for a delicious and easy-to-make dish that's both satisfying and gluten-free? These cheesy gluten-free chicken meatballs are the perfect solution for anyone avoiding gluten but still craving something savory and cheesy!
Made with lean ground chicken and almond flour instead of traditional breadcrumbs, these ground chicken meatballs are packed with protein and flavor without any of the gluten. The combination of herbs, spices, and cheese creates a mouthwatering dish that's perfect for a cozy family dinner or meal prep for the week ahead.
Whether you're following a gluten-free diet by necessity or by choice, these chicken meatballs prove that gluten-free eating can be just as delicious as traditional recipes. So grab your food processor and prepare to make the best gluten-free chicken meatballs you've ever tasted!
Serving Suggestions
These versatile gluten-free chicken meatballs can be served in so many different ways! Pair them with gluten-free pasta and tomato sauce for a classic meal, or serve them with zucchini noodles for a lower-carb option. They're also delicious alongside a fresh salad, mashed cauliflower, on top of white rice, or even tucked into gluten-free burger buns for a tasty sandwich. For a complete meal that the whole family will love, try serving these meatballs with roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes. Looking for more chicken inspiration? Check out our chipotle chicken pasta recipe, hot honey chicken salad, chicken julienne, or lemon chicken cilantro recipe for more delicious gluten-free options!
Ingredients
Ground chicken: The star ingredient of this recipe provides lean protein and a mild flavor that pairs wonderfully with our seasonings. You can use store-bought ground chicken or make your own using chicken breasts or thighs in a food processor for best results. Ground turkey also works well for this recipe.
Almond flour: This gluten-free alternative to traditional breadcrumbs helps bind the meatballs while keeping them gluten-free. If you don't have almond flour, you can substitute it with gluten-free oats processed into a fine powder.
Grated cheese: Adds moisture, richness, and special flavor to the meatballs. Feel free to use your favorite cheese - mozzarella works great for stretchy goodness, while parmesan cheese adds a savory depth. Make sure to use cheese with high fat content to ensure it melts well.
Egg: Acts as a binder to hold the meatball mixture together.
Small onion: Provides essential flavor and moisture. If you're short on time, substitute with 1 teaspoon of onion powder.
Garlic powder: Adds a delicious, savory note without the hassle of fresh garlic. If you prefer fresh, use 2-3 minced cloves instead.
Mayonnaise: Adds richness and helps keep the meatballs moist. Greek yogurt can be used as a lighter alternative, but make sure to add slightly more salt.
Olive oil: Used for cooking the meatballs to golden brown perfection. Avocado oil or butter makes a great substitute if you prefer.
Seasonings: A pinch each of salt, black pepper, garlic powder, red pepper flakes, and herbs of your choice (thyme, fresh parsley, or dill all work wonderfully) to enhance the flavors of these delicious meatballs.
Directions
1. If using chicken fillets instead of pre-ground chicken, cut them into chunks and place them in a food processor. Pulse until finely ground, being careful not to overprocess.
2. In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, almond flour, grated cheese, egg, chopped onion, garlic powder, mayonnaise, and all seasonings (salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes, and thyme).
3. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined. The meatball mixture should be sticky rather than liquid to ensure the meatballs hold their shape. If too wet, add a bit more almond flour or cheese.
4. Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. While the pan is heating, form the mixture into meatballs about the size of a golf ball using your hands or a cookie scoop for uniform sizes. Finish by rolling each meatball in grated Parmesan cheese.
5. Place meatballs in the hot pan, being careful not to overcrowd (work in batches if needed). Cook until golden brown on all sides and cooked through, about 4-5 minutes per side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Alternatively, for easy baked chicken meatballs, preheat your oven to 392°F (200°C), line a baking sheet with parchment paper, arrange the meatballs with space between them, and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden and cooked through.
6. Remove from heat and serve with your favorite sides or sauce for a complete meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Absolutely! These meatballs freeze beautifully. When cooking a big batch of the meatballs, allow them to cool completely, then place them in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. They'll keep for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes or microwave until heated through.
The best way to ensure your meatballs are fully cooked is to use a meat thermometer—chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). If you don't have a thermometer, cut one open; the meat should be opaque throughout with no pink showing.
Yes, you can omit the cheese if needed. To maintain moisture and flavor, consider adding an extra tablespoon of mayonnaise or 2-3 tablespoons of nutritional yeast for a cheese-like flavor while keeping the recipe dairy-free.
Absolutely! Air fryer chicken meatballs turn out wonderfully crisp on the outside and juicy inside. Cook at 380°F for about 12-14 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through cooking time.
Expert Tips
- For the most tender meatballs, don't overmix the ingredients. Mix just until combined to keep the texture light.
- Using a cookie scoop helps create uniform meatballs that will cook evenly.
- If you have time, chill the meatball mixture for 30 minutes before forming and cooking. This makes the mixture easier to handle and helps the meatballs hold their shape.
- For meal prep, make a double batch of these meatballs and freeze half for a quick and easy weeknight dinner later.
- Add fresh herbs like basil or parsley just before serving for a burst of fresh flavor.
Easy Gluten Free Chicken Meatballs (Fried/Oven Baked)
Ingredients
- 14 oz (400 g) chicken fillet (or ground chicken)
- 9 oz (250 g) grated cheese
- 1 egg
- 1 small onion (chopped)
- 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ⅓ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1.5 tablespoon almond flour
- ⅓ teaspoon red chili flakes
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (can be substituted with other dried or fresh herbs of your choice)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ cup (45-50 g) grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- If using chicken fillets instead of pre-ground chicken, cut them into chunks and place them in a food processor. Pulse until finely ground, being careful not to overprocess.
- In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, almond flour, grated cheese, egg, chopped onion, garlic powder, chili flakes, mayonnaise, and all seasonings.
- Mix well until thoroughly combined. If too wet, add a bit more almond flour or cheese.
- Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. While the pan is heating, form the mixture into meatballs about the size of a golf ball using your hands or a cookie scoop for uniform sizes. Roll each meatball in grated Parmesan cheese.
- Place meatballs in the hot pan, being careful not to overcrowd (work in batches if needed). Cook until golden brown on all sides and cooked through, about 4-5 minutes per side. Alternatively, for easy baked chicken meatballs, preheat your oven to 392°F (200°C), line a baking sheet with parchment paper, arrange the meatballs with space between them, and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden and cooked through.
- Remove from heat and serve while warm.
Notes
- Using a cookie scoop helps create uniform meatballs that will cook evenly.
- If you have time, chill the meatball mixture for 30 minutes before forming and cooking. This makes the mixture easier to handle and helps the meatballs hold their shape.
- For meal prep, make a double batch of these meatballs and freeze half for a quick and easy weeknight dinner later.
- Add fresh herbs like basil or parsley just before serving for a burst of fresh flavor.
These easy gluten-free chicken meatballs have quickly become a family favorite in our home, and I'm confident they'll become a staple in yours too! Not only are they incredibly versatile, but they also prove that gluten-free eating never has to mean sacrificing flavor or satisfaction. Whether you're serving them with pasta, in a sandwich, or as part of your weekly meal prep, these meatballs deliver big on taste while meeting your dietary needs. If you give this recipe a try, I'd love to hear what you think in the comments below. Happy cooking!
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