Set-It-and-Forget-It Slow Cooker Chicken Meatballs

Name: Set-It-and-Forget-It Slow Cooker Chicken Meatballs
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 4 h
Total time: 4 h 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground chicken; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/4 cup chopped parsley; 1 egg; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1/2 tsp dried oregano; 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce; 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

These Set-It-and-Forget-It Slow Cooker Chicken Meatballs are the ultimate convenience dish. Perfectly seasoned and irresistibly tender, they make a delightful meal with minimal effort.

Created by

Madison Cole

Last updated on 2025-12-28T17:31:08.761Z

These slow cooker chicken meatballs are perfect for busy weeknights. Just mix the ingredients, toss them in the slow cooker, and let them do their thing! The result is a flavorful and satisfying meal that the whole family will love.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Effortless preparation with delicious results
Tender and juicy meatballs cooked to perfection
Versatile dish that pairs well with pasta, rice, or on its own

      

The Convenience of Slow Cooking

Slow cooking is one of the best ways to prepare meals with minimal effort, and these chicken meatballs are a prime example. With just a few minutes of prep, you can set the slow cooker and go about your day. This method not only saves time but also allows flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a dish that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen.

Using a slow cooker means you can enjoy a home-cooked meal even on the busiest days. Whether you're rushing home from work or managing a packed schedule, these meatballs can be your go-to solution. Simply throw the ingredients together, set it on low, and come home to a deliciously aromatic meal that’s ready to serve.

Perfectly Seasoned Meatballs

The balance of flavors in these chicken meatballs is what makes them truly special. Ground chicken is a lean protein that benefits from the addition of breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and fresh herbs. Each bite is a delightful combination of savory and aromatic notes, enhanced by garlic and oregano. This seasoning profile ensures that your meatballs are anything but bland.

Furthermore, the option to add red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce allows you to customize the heat level to your liking. Whether you prefer a mild flavor or a spicy kick, this recipe is flexible enough to cater to various taste preferences, making it a hit for family dinners or casual get-togethers.

Serving Suggestions

These slow cooker chicken meatballs are incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways. For a comforting meal, serve them over spaghetti or your favorite pasta with a generous ladle of marinara sauce. The combination of tender meatballs and al dente pasta is a classic that never goes out of style.

If you’re looking for a lighter option, consider pairing the meatballs with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables. This not only makes for a satisfying meal but also keeps it healthy. Additionally, you can serve them as appetizers at your next gathering, allowing guests to enjoy them with toothpicks and dipping sauce.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create these delicious meatballs.

For the Meatballs

1 lb ground chicken
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup chopped parsley
1 egg
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp dried oregano

For the Sauce

1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

Make sure to adjust seasoning to taste!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your meatballs.

Prepare the Meatball Mixture

In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, egg, garlic, salt, pepper, and oregano. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.

Form the Meatballs

Using your hands, shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter. Place them on a baking sheet as you form them.

Add to Slow Cooker

Pour the marinara sauce into the bottom of the slow cooker. Carefully place the meatballs on top of the sauce, ensuring they are evenly spaced.

Cook

Cover and cook on low for 4 hours or until the meatballs are cooked through and tender.

Serve with your favorite side and enjoy!

Frequently Asked Questions

One common question about slow cooker recipes is whether you can substitute ingredients. In this case, ground turkey or pork can easily replace the ground chicken without compromising the flavor. Just ensure that you adjust cooking times if necessary, as different meats may cook at different rates.

Another frequently asked question revolves around leftovers. These meatballs store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, and they can also be frozen for longer storage. Just reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a bit of marinara sauce for a quick and satisfying meal.

Tips for Success

To ensure the best texture for your meatballs, avoid overmixing the ingredients. Gently combine them until just incorporated to keep the meatballs tender. Additionally, if you find the mixture too wet, feel free to add a bit more breadcrumbs to achieve the desired consistency.

When placing the meatballs in the slow cooker, make sure they are not overcrowded. This allows for even cooking and prevents them from sticking together. If necessary, cook them in batches to achieve the best results.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen meatballs instead?

Yes, you can substitute frozen meatballs. Just add them directly to the sauce and adjust the cooking time as needed.

→ What can I serve with the meatballs?

These meatballs are great with spaghetti, rice, or as a sub sandwich filling with melted cheese.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage.

→ Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs and freeze them before cooking. Just add them to the slow cooker straight from the freezer and increase the cooking time.