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When you’re on a keto journey, nothing beats a rich, comforting meal that doesn’t derail your carb count. That’s exactly what these low carb chicken meatballs deliver—pure comfort food, without the carb guilt. Juicy chicken meatballs are pan-seared to perfection, then simmered in a velvety garlic cream sauce loaded with cheese and herbs.
This dish is easy enough for a weeknight and indulgent enough to serve guests. Best of all, it fits seamlessly into your low-carb lifestyle, providing a hearty source of protein and fats, with minimal carbs.
Why Make These Low Carb Chicken Meatballs?
1. They’re Ultra-Low in Carbs
With only about 4g net carbs per serving, this dish helps you stay in ketosis while still enjoying a decadent, hearty dinner.
2. Creamy and Rich Without the Guilt
The sauce combines heavy cream, mozzarella, parmesan, and herbs—giving it restaurant-level flavor while staying totally keto.
3. Perfect for Beginners
No complicated techniques or hard-to-find ingredients. Just simple, wholesome cooking that delivers on taste.
4. Meal-Prep Friendly
These meatballs reheat beautifully and freeze well—perfect for batch cooking, meal planning, or busy weeknights.
5. Kid and Family-Approved
Even carb-lovers will devour these meatballs. Serve them with roasted veggies, keto noodles, or cauliflower mash.
Want more family-friendly keto dishes? The FREE Keto Cookbook – 21 Delicious Recipes includes simple, delicious meals your whole family will love.
Ingredients List
For the Chicken Meatballs:
1 lb (450g) ground chicken – Lean but flavorful; use turkey as an alternative.
1/3 cup grated parmesan cheese – Adds moisture, saltiness, and helps bind the meatballs.
1 large egg – Acts as a binder.
2 tbsp almond flour – Keeps carbs low while holding the meatballs together.
2 cloves garlic, minced – Adds a savory aromatic base.
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 tsp dried) – Adds brightness and color.
1/2 tsp onion powder – Enhances depth of flavor.
1/4 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp black pepper
1 tbsp olive oil – For pan-frying.
For the Creamy Cheese Herb Sauce:
2 tbsp butter – For sautéing and richness.
2 cloves garlic, minced
3/4 cup heavy cream – The base of the sauce; rich and keto-friendly.
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese – Melts into the sauce for gooey texture.
1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese – Adds sharpness and depth.
1 tsp Italian seasoning – A mix of basil, oregano, thyme, and rosemary.
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley or basil (optional) – For garnish.
Read More: Easy Keto Meatballs in Tomato Sauce
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, parmesan, almond flour, egg, garlic, parsley, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Use clean hands or a spoon to gently mix until just combined.
🔹 Tip: Don’t overwork the meat—mix just until combined. Over-mixing can make the meatballs dense.
Step 2: Form the Meatballs
Scoop out the mixture using a tablespoon or small cookie scoop. Roll gently into balls about 1.5 inches wide. Place them on a plate or tray. You should get 16–18 meatballs.
🧊 Make ahead tip: You can refrigerate formed meatballs for up to 24 hours before cooking.
Step 3: Sear the Meatballs
Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add meatballs in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature: 165°F/74°C). Transfer to a plate and set aside.
🔥 Pro tip: For extra browning, don’t flip the meatballs too soon. Let them sear and form a crust before turning.
Step 4: Make the Cream Sauce
In the same skillet (don’t clean it—those brown bits add flavor!), melt the butter over medium-low heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Slowly pour in the heavy cream while stirring. Bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low.
Step 5: Add Cheese and Herbs
Add mozzarella and parmesan. Stir gently until melted and the sauce becomes creamy and slightly thickened (3–5 minutes). Stir in Italian seasoning, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
❗If sauce is too thick: Add a splash of chicken broth or water.
Step 6: Simmer Meatballs in Sauce
Return the cooked meatballs to the skillet. Spoon sauce over them and simmer on low for 5–6 minutes, allowing flavors to meld and the meatballs to warm through.
Step 7: Serve and Garnish
Garnish with chopped parsley or fresh basil, and serve hot with your favorite low-carb side.
Want more practical keto cooking tips? Download the FREE Keto Cookbook – 21 Delicious Recipes for bonus tips, substitutions, and prep ideas.
Tips and Substitutions
No almond flour? Use ground flaxseed, coconut flour (reduce to 1 tbsp), or crushed pork rinds for texture.
Too sticky? Wet your hands before shaping the meatballs to prevent sticking.
Don’t have fresh herbs? Use 1 tsp dried parsley or Italian seasoning in the meatball mix.
Add greens: Mix in 1/2 cup finely chopped spinach or kale for extra fiber and color.
Make it spicy: Add red pepper flakes to the sauce or a diced jalapeño to the meatball mix.
Read More: Slow Cooker Chicken Stew
Recipe Variations
Beef or Pork Meatballs: Swap chicken for ground beef, turkey, or a 50/50 beef-pork mix.
Bacon and Herb Meatballs: Add 1/4 cup finely chopped cooked bacon to the meatball mixture.
Lemon-Dill Sauce: Replace Italian seasoning with 1 tbsp chopped fresh dill and 1 tbsp lemon juice.
Cheddar Broccoli Version: Stir in 1/3 cup chopped cooked broccoli and 1/4 cup shredded cheddar to the sauce.
Want to explore more keto recipe variations? Get inspired with the FREE Keto Cookbook – 21 Delicious Recipes.
Nutritional Information
(Per Serving: 4 meatballs + 2 tbsp sauce)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 385 kcal |
| Protein | 27g |
| Fat | 29g |
| Total Carbohydrates | 4.5g |
| Fiber | 1.2g |
| Net Carbs | 3.3g |
| Sugar | 1g |
| Sodium | 460mg |
| Calcium | 22% DV |
| Iron | 11% DV |
| Vitamin A | 16% DV |
Read More: Cheesy Ground Beef Zucchini Boats
Storage and Serving Suggestions
Storage:
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Freeze in sauce in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months.
Reheating:
Microwave: Reheat in 30-second intervals, stirring gently.
Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of cream or broth if sauce thickens.
What to Serve With:
Cauliflower mash – Classic comfort food combo.
Zoodles (zucchini noodles) – Light and fresh pairing.
Steamed broccoli or green beans – Quick and fiber-rich.
Keto flatbread or chaffles – Great for soaking up that creamy sauce.
Need more keto sides and serving inspiration? Find easy pairings in the FREE Keto Cookbook – 21 Delicious Recipes.
Common Questions
Can I bake the meatballs instead of frying?
Yes. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place meatballs on a lined baking sheet and bake for 18–20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Can I use pre-cooked meatballs?
You can, but make sure they’re plain and low in carbs. Warm them in the sauce for 10–12 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Yes, use coconut cream for the sauce and skip the cheese, or use dairy-free cheese alternatives.
Will the sauce separate if I reheat it?
If it does, whisk in a tablespoon of cream or broth over low heat to bring it back together.
Conclusion
These low carb chicken meatballs are a game-changer for anyone following a keto lifestyle. Rich, creamy, and incredibly satisfying, this recipe is both indulgent and health-conscious. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or cooking for family, this dish delivers big on taste without the carbs.
The best part? It’s endlessly customizable and ready in under 40 minutes.
You May Also Like:
1. Avocado Chicken Salad Without Mayo
2. Keto Cream Cheese Stuffed Peppers
3. Keto Chicken Cauliflower Casserole
4. Keto Chicken Bacon Ranch Taquitos
