About This Recipe
All the garlicky, buttery comfort of classic Chicken Kiev—reimagined as crispy, juicy meatballs. These Keto Chicken Kiev Meatballs sear up golden and sit on a bed of herbed cauliflower rice for a cozy, one-skillet dinner that’s perfect for busy weeknights and meal prep.
Ingredients
For the Meatballs
- 1 1/2 lb ground chicken thigh
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cloves garlic, minced, divided
- 1/3 cup almond flour
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1/4 cup fresh dill, finely chopped, divided
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped, divided
- 1 tsp fine sea salt, plus more to taste
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil (for searing)
- Optional: 1 tsp lemon zest
For the Herbed Cauliflower Rice
- 4 cups cauliflower rice
- Pinch of salt and pepper
- 1–2 tbsp chopped dill and parsley (reserved)
- Optional: 1–2 tsp fresh lemon juice
Instructions
- Make the herb butter: In a bowl, mash softened butter with half the minced garlic, 2 tbsp dill, 2 tbsp parsley, a pinch of salt, and lemon zest (if using). Spread thinly on parchment and chill 10–15 minutes, then cut into 12 small cubes.
- Mix the meat: In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, almond flour, beaten egg, remaining garlic, 1 tbsp mixed herbs, 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp pepper. Mix just until combined—do not overwork.
- Form: Divide meat into 12 portions. Flatten each, place a butter cube in the center, and seal to form tight meatballs. Chill 10 minutes to firm.
- Sear: Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Sear meatballs 2–3 minutes per side until deeply golden.
- Finish cooking: Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and cook 4–6 more minutes, until centers reach 165°F/74°C. Transfer meatballs to a plate and tent with foil.
- Herbed cauliflower rice: In the same skillet with pan drippings, add cauliflower rice and a pinch of salt. Sauté 3–4 minutes until tender-crisp. Stir in remaining dill and parsley, plus lemon juice to taste.
- Serve: Spoon herbed cauliflower rice onto plates, top with meatballs, and drizzle any buttery pan juices over the top.
Keto Focus
These meatballs skip breadcrumbs in favor of almond flour and hide a rich, high-fat herb-butter center for satisfying macros. Swapping traditional rice with cauliflower keeps carbs low without sacrificing comfort-food appeal. No added sugar—just clean, keto-friendly ingredients.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
- Calories: 638
- Protein: 34.8g
- Fat: 51.4g
- Total Carbs: 9.2g
- Fiber: 3.6g
- Net Carbs: 5.6g
Tips & Variations
- Make it extra crispy: Lightly dust meatballs with a teaspoon more almond flour before searing.
- Air fryer option: Spray lightly with oil and cook at 400°F (200°C) for 10–12 minutes, turning once; baste with any leaked butter.
- Thighs vs. breast: Ground thigh stays juicier, but ground breast works—add 1 extra tbsp butter to the center.
- Dairy tweak: Use ghee for a buttery flavor that’s often easier on lactose-sensitive eaters.
- Meal prep: Cools well and reheats in a skillet with a splash of cream or broth; store 3–4 days refrigerated.
- Add-ins: Fold sautéed spinach or mushrooms into the cauliflower rice for extra volume.