Keto Chicken Meatballs Recipes And Pairing Ideas For A Complete Low-Carb Meal

Embracing a keto version of common dishes can be a game-changer for those following a low-carb lifestyle. Why? Well, for many reasons, the recipes are usually easy to make, require common ingredients found in most pantries, and often don’t require much more than a few additions or substitutions for high-carb items. Plus, you won’t feel left out of the dinner conversation when you show up with a plate full of yummy keto chicken meatballs. In this post, we’ll explore a range of mouthwatering recipes and ideas that will elevate your keto meal planning. In the end, you will learn how to create scrumptious and flavorful keto chicken meatballs with our easy-to-follow instructions, as well as discover pairing suggestions that perfectly complement a low-carb diet.

Are Meatballs Keto Friendly?

Meatballs can be keto-friendly depending on the ingredients and preparation. Traditional meatball recipes often include breadcrumbs or other fillers, which can increase the carb content.  However, you can make low-carb meatballs by using alternative binders, such as almond flour, coconut flour, or crushed pork rinds, and focusing on high-protein ingredients like ground meat and eggs. 

How Many Carbs Are In Chicken Meatballs?

The carb content in chicken meatballs can vary depending on the recipe and ingredients used. However, a serving of chicken meatballs (approximately 100 grams or 3.5 ounces) typically contains around 7-10 grams of carbohydrates. 

This figure can be attributed to the breadcrumbs or other binding agents like flour that are commonly used in making meatballs. Note that this is just an approximation, and the exact carb count may differ based on the specific recipe and portion size. 

To get accurate figures for the chicken meatballs you’re consuming, it’s best to check the nutritional information provided by the manufacturer or calculate it based on the ingredients you include in your homemade recipe.

Read More: 4 Keto Tortilla Recipe Variations To Kick Your Carb Cravings

What Is The Best Keto Chicken Meatballs Recipe?

To make the best keto chicken meatballs, you’ll need to make substitutions in the traditional recipe to keep the carb content low. 

Here are some key changes to create a keto-friendly version:

1. Breadcrumbs Alternative

Replace breadcrumbs or flour with a low-carb alternative like almond flour or coconut flour. These flours have fewer carbs and higher fiber content, making them suitable for a keto diet. You can use around ¼-½ a cup of almond or coconut flour per pound of ground chicken.

2. Cheese

Adding grated cheese, such as Parmesan or Romano, not only enhances the flavor but also helps bind the meatballs together. This is especially helpful when using low-carb flour, which might not be as effective as traditional breadcrumbs in keeping the meatballs intact.

3. Vegetables

Incorporate finely chopped low-carb vegetables like spinach, kale, or zucchini to add more texture and nutrition without significantly increasing the carb count.

4. Seasonings

Use a variety of herbs and spices to add flavor to your keto chicken meatballs. Opt for fresh or dried basil, oregano, parsley, thyme, rosemary, or any other low-carb seasonings you prefer.

5. High-Fat Content

Since the keto diet emphasizes healthy fats, consider using ground chicken with a higher fat content or adding extra fats like olive oil, avocado oil, or melted butter to the mixture.

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How To Make Keto Chicken Meatballs?

Here’s a step-by-step procedure for making keto chicken meatballs, while taking into account the keto ingredient substitutions:

1. Prepare The Ingredients

Gather all your keto-friendly ingredients, including ground chicken, almond or coconut flour, grated cheese (like Parmesan or Romano), finely chopped low-carb vegetables (such as spinach, kale, or zucchini), and seasonings (fresh or dried herbs and spices). You may also need olive oil, avocado oil, or melted butter to add some healthy fats.

2. Preheat The Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.

3. Combine The Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, add the ground chicken, almond or coconut flour, grated cheese, chopped vegetables, and seasonings. If you’re using a high-fat ground chicken, you might not need extra fats; otherwise, add olive oil, avocado oil, or melted butter to the mixture.

Gently mix everything together with your hands or a spoon until well combined. Careful not to overmix, as this can lead to dense meatballs.

4. Form The Meatballs

Using your hands or a cookie scoop, form the mixture into evenly sized meatballs, usually around 1-1.5 inches (2.5-3.8 cm) in diameter. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, spaced evenly apart.

5. Bake The Meatballs

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the meatballs for approximately 20-25 minutes, or until they are cooked through and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Cooking time may vary depending on the size of the meatballs and your oven, so keep an eye on them to prevent overcooking.

6. Rest And Serve

Once the meatballs are cooked, remove them from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute and ensures tender, juicy meatballs.

Some additional tips for success while using a keto chicken meatballs recipe:

• You can also cook the meatballs in a skillet with some oil over medium heat if you prefer. Just make sure to turn them occasionally to cook them evenly on all sides and achieve a nice crust.
• If the meatball mixture feels too wet or sticky, add a bit more almond or coconut flour until it’s easier to handle. Conversely, if it’s too dry, add a splash of olive oil or another fat source.
• Feel free to experiment with different seasonings, vegetables, and cheeses to suit your taste preferences.

Read More: Best Salad Dressing For Keto Success

Keto Buffalo Chicken Meatballs (2)

Tangy, spicy, and slightly vinegary, these keto buffalo chicken meatballs are the perfect accompaniment to your favorite low-carb side dish. They’re also great as game-day snacks or appetizers.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground chicken
• 1 egg, beaten
• 2 sprigs of green onion, finely chopped
• 1 celery stalk, trimmed and finely diced
• 1 tablespoon almond or coconut flour
• 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon pink sea salt
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 cup of buffalo wing sauce

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
2. In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, egg, green onion, celery stalk, almond or coconut flour, mayonnaise, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper; mix until fully combined.
3. Using your hands or a cookie scoop, form the mixture into evenly sized meatballs, usually around 1-1.5 inches (2.5-3.8 cm) in diameter. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, spaced evenly apart.
4. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the meatballs for approximately 20-25 minutes, or until they are cooked through and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
5. Once the meatballs are cooked, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before tossing with buffalo wing sauce.

Nutrition: Yield: 6 | Serving Size: 1 | Amount Per Serving: Calories: 196 | Total Fat: 12 g | Saturated Fat: 3 g | Trans Fat: 0 g | Unsaturated Fat: 8 g | Cholesterol: 113 mg | Sodium: 1490 mg | Carbohydrates: 3 g | Protein: 20 g

This recipe is courtesy of It’s Simple.

Keto Chicken Parmesan Meatballs (4)

Savory and slightly cheesy, with a pleasant balance of herbs and spices that complement the chicken’s natural flavor, these meatballs have a tender and juicy interior and a slightly crunchy exterior. The choice of ingredients makes these chicken parmesan meatballs keto friendly and a perfect addition to your meals. 

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground chicken
• ½ cup three cheese garlic marinara sauce
• ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese
• 3 tablespoons flat-leaf parsley, freshly chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon sea salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ cup mozzarella cheese, shredded 

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
2. In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, marinara sauce, parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic, Italian seasoning, onion powder, salt, and pepper; mix until fully combined.
3. Using your hands or a cookie scoop, form the mixture into evenly sized meatballs, usually around 1-1.5 inches (2.5-3.8 cm) in diameter. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, spaced evenly apart.
4. Bake the meatballs for approximately 20-25 minutes, or until they are cooked through and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
5. Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese over each meatball and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Once the meatballs are cooked, remove them from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. 

Nutrition: Serving Size: 3 | Meatballs Calories: 257 kcal | Fat: 15 g | Carbohydrates: 4 g | Fiber: 1 g | Protein: 26 g

This recipe is courtesy of Peace, Love, Low Carb.

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Keto Chicken Ricotta Meatballs (1)

Light and fluffy, with a subtle hint of sweetness from the ricotta cheese, these baked keto chicken Ricotta meatballs make an excellent side dish or main course. Serve them with a side of zucchini noodles, cauliflower rice, or your favorite low-carb vegetables for an extra-filling meal.

Ingredients:

• 2 lb ground chicken, 90-95% lean
• 15 ounces ricotta, drained
• 1 cup Parmigiano-Reggiano, freshly grated
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten
• 1/2 cup flat-leaf parsley, chopped
• 2 tablespoons basil, freshly chopped 2; teaspoons dried
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg, freshly grated; 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
2. In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, ricotta cheese, Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, egg, parsley, basil, olive oil, garlic, salt, pepper, and nutmeg; mix until fully combined.
3. Using your hands or a cookie scoop, form the mixture into evenly sized meatballs, usually around 1-1.5 inches (2.5-3.8 cm) in diameter. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, spaced evenly apart.
4. Bake the meatballs for approximately 20-25 minutes, or until they are cooked through and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
5. Once the meatballs are cooked, remove them from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. 

Nutrition: Yield: 8 servings | Calories: 348 kcal | Carbohydrates: 3 g | Protein: 31 g | Fat: 24 g | Saturated Fat: 10 g | Cholesterol: 159 mg | Sodium: 616 mg | Potassium: 690 mg | Fiber: 1 g | Sugar: 1 g | Vitamin A: 702 IU | Vitamin C: 5 mg | Calcium: 275 mg | Iron: 2 mg

This recipe is courtesy of Savor With Jennifer.

Keto Thai Chicken Meatballs (3)

If you’re looking for a delicious keto-friendly meal, look no further than these Keto Thai Chicken Meatballs. This low-carb dish is packed with flavor, juicy meat, and a crusty baked exterior.

The combination of ground chicken, fish sauce, garlic, ginger, and other spices creates an amazing blend of sweet and savory flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. And the best part? It’s easy to make with just a few simple steps.

Ingredients:  

• Meatball mixture
• 2 lbs chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
• 1 cup cabbage, chopped
• ½ cup carrot, chopped
• 6 garlic cloves, chopped (about 2 tbsp)
• 1 tbsp fresh ginger, minced
• ½ cup green onions, finely sliced
• 2 large eggs
• 2 tbsp fish sauce
• 2 tbsp coconut aminos or gluten-free soy sauce
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• ½ tsp Chinese five spice
• 2 tsp kosher salt
• ½ cup breadcrumbs, unflavored
• Dipping sauce
• ¼ cup coconut aminos
• 2 tbsp fish sauce
• 2 tbsp lime juice, freshly squeezed
• 2 tbsp rice wine vinegar
• 1 tsp ginger, minced
• 1 tsp garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp green onion, finely sliced
• 1 tbsp Sriracha
• 2 tsp sesame oil
• 1 tsp sesame seeds
• Garnish (optional)
• Chili threads
• Sliced jalapeños
• Fresh cilantro
• Sesame seeds

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (191°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine the chicken, cabbage, carrot, garlic, ginger, green onions, eggs, fish sauce, coconut aminos/gluten-free soy sauce, sesame oil, and five spice. Use your hands to mix together until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
3. Divide the mixture into 12 equal portions and shape each portion into a meatball. 
4. Place the meatballs on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20 minutes, or until cooked through.
5. While the meatballs are baking, make the dipping sauce. In a small bowl, whisk together the coconut aminos, fish sauce, lime juice, rice wine vinegar, ginger, garlic, green onion, sriracha, and sesame oil.
6. Once the meatballs are cooked through, transfer them to a serving plate and garnish with chili threads, jalapenos, fresh cilantro, and sesame seeds. 
7. Serve warm with the dipping sauce. 

Notes: About 3 meatballs and 1 tbsp of dipping sauce per serving

Nutrition: Yield: 10 servings | Calories: 288 kcal | Carbohydrates: 5 g | Protein: 21 g | Fat: 20 g | Saturated Fat: 5 g | Trans Fat: 1 g | Cholesterol: 122 mg | Sodium: 1358 mg | Potassium: 288 mg | Fiber: 1 g | Sugar: 1 g | Vitamin A: 1255 IU | Vitamin C: 7 mg | Calcium: 32 mg | Iron: 1 mg

This recipe is courtesy of Culinary Lion.

Conclusion

There are so many delicious and keto-friendly ways to include chicken in your meals. From classic Italian Chicken Parmesan Meatballs to Keto Thai Chicken Meatballs, these tasty and easy recipes will make a great addition to your meal plan. They’re also perfect to make ahead of time and freeze for later consumption.