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: 6 h
Total time: 6 h 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound ground chicken; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/4 cup chopped parsley; 1 egg; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 2 cups marinara sauce; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

Enjoy the convenience of a slow cooker with these easy and delicious chicken meatballs. Perfectly seasoned and incredibly tender, they make a fantastic meal any day of the week.

Created by

Madison Cole

Last updated on 2025-12-28T17:37:11.662Z

This recipe for Set-It-and-Forget-It Slow Cooker Chicken Meatballs is a game-changer for busy weeknights. Simply mix the ingredients, roll them into meatballs, and let the slow cooker do the rest. The result is a flavorful, tender dish that pairs perfectly with pasta, rice, or on its own as a hearty appetizer.

        Why You'll Love These Meatballs
        Hands-free cooking that fits into your busy schedule
Juicy and flavorful chicken meatballs that everyone will enjoy
Versatile dish that can be served in various ways

      

The Convenience of Slow Cooking

Slow cooking is a game-changer for busy individuals and families. With a slow cooker, you can prepare delicious meals without spending hours in the kitchen. Simply combine your ingredients, set the timer, and let the slow cooker do the work. This method not only saves time but also allows flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in tender and juicy meatballs that are bursting with flavor.

One of the best aspects of slow cooking is the ability to prepare meals in advance. You can assemble the meatballs and sauce the night before, refrigerate them, and then place them in the slow cooker in the morning. By dinnertime, you'll have a hearty meal ready to serve, making it ideal for hectic weekdays or lazy weekends.

Perfectly Seasoned Chicken Meatballs

These chicken meatballs are not only easy to make but also packed with flavor. The combination of ground chicken, Parmesan cheese, and fresh parsley creates a deliciously moist and tender texture. The addition of garlic and Italian seasoning adds depth to the flavor profile, making every bite a delight. You can easily adjust the seasoning to suit your taste, whether you prefer a little extra spice or a more subtle flavor.

What sets these meatballs apart is their versatility. You can serve them over spaghetti for a classic Italian dish, toss them into a sub for a delicious meatball sandwich, or enjoy them on their own with a side of crusty bread. This recipe offers endless possibilities, ensuring that you'll never get bored with your meals.

A Healthy Alternative

Using ground chicken in these meatballs is a healthier alternative to traditional beef or pork. Ground chicken is lower in fat and calories while still providing a good source of protein. This makes it a fantastic option for those looking to maintain a balanced diet without sacrificing flavor. Pairing these meatballs with fresh vegetables or whole grain pasta can elevate your meal, making it nutritious and satisfying.

Additionally, by making your own meatballs, you have complete control over the ingredients. You can opt for whole grain breadcrumbs, organic chicken, or even add in veggies for extra nutrition. This way, you can cater the dish to your dietary preferences or restrictions, ensuring that everyone at the table can enjoy a delicious meal.

Ingredients

For the Meatballs

1 pound ground chicken
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup chopped parsley
1 egg
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning

For the Sauce

2 cups marinara sauce
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Mix all ingredients thoroughly and prepare for cooking.

Steps

Prepare the Meatballs

In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, egg, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Mix until well combined. Form into meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.

Place in Slow Cooker

Place the meatballs in the slow cooker. Pour marinara sauce over the top, ensuring the meatballs are well coated.

Cook

Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours, until the meatballs are cooked through and the sauce is bubbly.

Serve

Serve meatballs hot with pasta, rice, or as is with crusty bread.

Enjoy your delicious slow cooker chicken meatballs!

Tips for Success

To ensure your meatballs hold together well, avoid overmixing the ingredients. A gentle hand is key to keeping them tender. If the mixture feels too wet, you can add a little more breadcrumbs to achieve the desired consistency. This will help your meatballs maintain their shape during cooking while still being moist and flavorful.

For an added layer of flavor, consider browning the meatballs in a skillet before adding them to the slow cooker. This step enhances the taste and gives the meatballs a lovely golden crust. However, if you're short on time, you can skip this and still achieve delicious results.

Serving Suggestions

These slow cooker chicken meatballs are incredibly versatile. Serve them over a bed of spaghetti topped with marinara sauce for a classic Italian dinner, or pair them with a fresh salad for a lighter option. They also work great as an appetizer at parties—just keep toothpicks nearby for easy serving.

If you're feeling creative, try using the meatballs in a variety of dishes. Add them to a hearty soup or stew for a comforting meal, or slice them up and toss them into a stir-fry. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to enjoy this recipe in many different ways throughout the week.

Storing and Reheating

Leftover meatballs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. They also freeze beautifully, making them perfect for meal prep. Simply place cooled meatballs in a freezer-safe bag, and they can be stored for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy them, just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

To reheat, you can use the microwave or place them back in the slow cooker with a splash of marinara sauce until warmed through. They also make great additions to various meals, so don’t hesitate to get creative with leftovers!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen ground chicken, but make sure to adjust the cooking time as it may take longer to cook through.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.

→ Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs and freeze them. Just add them directly to the slow cooker from frozen and extend the cooking time.

→ What can I serve with these meatballs?

These meatballs are great with spaghetti, rice, or in a sub sandwich. You can also serve them as an appetizer with toothpicks.