Chelsea are ninth in the Premier League, three points off seventh place, and Palmer’s absence will be a blow to their hopes of European qualification.
However, it will strengthen Arsenal’s desire to win their first Premier League title in 20 years.
The Gunners’ hopes were dashed by a 2-0 home defeat to Aston Villa on April 14, but they beat Wolves by the same scoreline on Saturday.
Tuesday’s game will be Arsenal’s fourth in ten days but manager Mikel Arteta insists his side will not be affected by the quick turnaround between games.
He said: “We will continue what we are doing – focus on the next game and the task ahead, prepare well – as we have done over time.
“The kids look ready to go again.”
Asked about the prospect of facing a Blues side without Palmer’s goal threat, he added: “I can’t control that, only my players.
“Whatever they (Chelsea) are, when you look at the quality of their squad, they are great.
“They are doing well, getting good results recently and a much better performance than their position in the table would suggest.
“It’s going to be a tough game no doubt.”
Arsenal defender Jurien Timber is absent as he continues his recovery from a serious knee injury sustained on his debut. He will play for the Gunners under-21 team this week.
