Jalapeno Chicken Meatballs

These Jalapeno Chicken Meatballs prove that healthy, light, and keto-friendly meals don’t have to be boring. They’re tender, packed with flavor, and carry just the right kick of spice. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack, party appetizer, or meal prep idea, these meatballs deliver.

Chicken Jalapeno Meatballs on a dark plate.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

These are seriously easy, folks. Toss simple ingredients into a food processor, shape, bake, and have a delicious snack or appetizer on the table in under 30 minutes. And the best part? They’re super healthy and keto-friendly without sacrificing flavor.

We love pairing these meatballs with our Chuy’s Creamy Jalapeno Cilantro Dip – it’s a perfect match. Give it a try!

ingredients needed to make chicken jalapeno meatballs.

How To Make Jalapeno Chicken Meatballs

Preheat the oven to 475 degrees F.

  • Roughly chop the chicken breasts, red onion, jalapenos, and garlic. Add that as well as the salt and pepper, egg, shredded cheddar cheese, and cilantro (all the ingredients) to the food processor and pulse until well mixed.
Ingredients in a food processor.
Ingredients blended together in a food processor.
  • Using a #50 scoop, portion the meatballs and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cook for approximately 12 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees F. If you don’t have a scoop, portion size is roughly 1 1/2 tbsp.
Raw chicken jalapeno meatballs on a baking sheet.
Cooked chicken jalapeno meatballs on a baking sheet.
  • Serve as-is hot, or serve with your favorite dipping sauce. For us, it’s always our Jalapeno Cilantro dip. We put that on everything!
Chicken Jalapeno Meatballs on a dark plate.
Chicken Jalapeno Meatballs on a dark plate.

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I promise you that you’ll find it difficult to find a recipe that delivers these flavors while keeping the dish healthy, fresh, keto, and, above all else, delicious! Give it a whirl, you won’t be sorry.

Tips

Brown Them: If you want more color on the meatballs, broil them towards the end until you get the color you enjoy.

Don’t Overmix: Pulse the mixture just until combined. Overprocessing can make the meatballs dense instead of tender.

Size Matters: Try to keep the meatballs uniform in size for even cooking. A small cookie scoop works great for this.

Spice Control: Want it spicier? Leave some jalapeno seeds in. Prefer it mild? Remove all the seeds and membranes before blending.

Variations

Cheese Swap: Try swapping cheddar for pepper jack, mozzarella, or even feta for a different flavor profile.

Ground Meat Options: Not a fan of ground chicken? Ground turkey or ground pork work just as well.

Herb Twist: Mix in fresh parsley, basil, or green onions to change up the flavor and add a bright, fresh note.

FAQs

How spicy are these meatballs?

They have a mild to medium kick. If you want more heat, keep some jalapeno seeds in the mix. For less spice, remove all seeds and membranes.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes! You can prep the meatballs, store them in the fridge uncooked for up to a day, or freeze them for later. Just bake when ready.

How do I store leftovers?

Leftover meatballs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

Other Delicious Meatball Recipes

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Chicken Jalapeno Meatballs on a dark plate.

Jalapeno Chicken Meatballs Recipe

Quick, easy, and packed with flavor, these Jalapeno Chicken Meatballs are tender, keto-friendly, and perfect for appetizers or snacks. Ready in under 30 minutes!
5 from 1 vote
Print Pin Rate
Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: American
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Servings: 13
Calories: 63kcal

Ingredients
 

  • 1.5 lbs Chicken breasts
  • 1/2 Red onion
  • 2 Jalapenos de-seeded
  • 2 Garlic cloves
  • Kosher salt
  • Black pepper
  • Egg
  • 1/2 Cheddar cheese shredded
  • 1/3 cup Fresh cilantro

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 475°F.
  • Roughly chop chicken, onion, jalapenos, and garlic. Add all ingredients to a food processor and pulse until well combined.
    1.5 lbs Chicken breasts, 1/2 Red onion, 2 Jalapenos, 2 Garlic cloves, Kosher salt, Black pepper, Egg, 1/2 Cheddar cheese, 1/3 cup Fresh cilantro
  • Scoop mixture into meatballs and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for about 12 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.

Nutrition

Calories: 63kcal | Carbohydrates: 1g | Protein: 11g | Fat: 1g | Saturated Fat: 0.3g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.4g | Trans Fat: 0.01g | Cholesterol: 34mg | Sodium: 61mg | Potassium: 209mg | Fiber: 0.2g | Sugar: 0.3g | Vitamin A: 67IU | Vitamin C: 4mg | Calcium: 5mg | Iron: 0.2mg

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