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; 2 cups marinara sauce; 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional); 1 tsp Italian seasoning

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

Deliciously tender and flavorful, these slow cooker chicken meatballs are perfect for busy weeknights.

Created by

Madison Cole

Last updated on 2025-12-28T17:43:05.550Z

These Set-It-and-Forget-It Slow Cooker Chicken Meatballs are a game-changer for hectic days. Simply mix the ingredients, place them in the slow cooker, and let them simmer to perfection while you tackle your day.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Effortless preparation with minimal cleanup
Juicy meatballs packed with flavor
Perfect for meal prep or quick weeknight dinners

      

Perfect for Busy Weeknights

When life gets hectic, dinner can often feel like a daunting task. This Set-It-and-Forget-It Slow Cooker Chicken Meatballs recipe is designed specifically for those busy weeknights when you need a delicious meal without the fuss. Simply prepare the meatball mixture in the morning, throw them into your slow cooker, and let them cook while you tackle your daily responsibilities. By the time you return home, a hearty, satisfying dinner awaits you, allowing you to spend more time with family and less time in the kitchen.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. With just a few ingredients and minimal preparation, you can create a comforting dish that everyone will love. Plus, the slow cooker does all the hard work for you, transforming basic ingredients into juicy, flavorful meatballs that are truly irresistible.

Meal Prep Made Easy

If you're looking to streamline your meal prep routine, these chicken meatballs fit the bill perfectly. They can be made in large batches and stored in the refrigerator or freezer for later use. Simply double or triple the recipe to ensure you have enough meatballs on hand for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week. They reheat beautifully and can be paired with pasta, rice, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Another great aspect of this recipe is its versatility. You can customize the meatballs by adding your favorite spices or substituting ingredients based on personal preferences. This means you can easily adapt them to suit your family's tastes, making meal prep not only efficient but also enjoyable.

A Flavorful Twist

These slow cooker chicken meatballs are not only easy to prepare, but they also burst with flavor. The combination of garlic, Parmesan cheese, and fresh parsley infuses each meatball with a delicious taste that pairs perfectly with marinara sauce. The optional red pepper flakes add a subtle kick, allowing you to customize the heat level to your liking. Whether you enjoy them as an appetizer or a main course, these meatballs will impress even the pickiest eaters.

Additionally, using ground chicken makes these meatballs a lighter option compared to traditional beef or pork meatballs. They are a great source of protein while still being flavorful and satisfying. This is a fantastic way to enjoy a classic dish with a healthier twist without sacrificing taste.

Ingredients

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

For the Sauce

2 cups marinara sauce
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
1 tsp Italian seasoning

Mix all ingredients thoroughly before placing them in the slow cooker.

Instructions

Prepare the Meatballs

In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, egg, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

Form the Meatballs

Roll the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and place them in the slow cooker.

Add the Sauce

Pour the marinara sauce over the meatballs, ensuring they are well coated. Sprinkle with red pepper flakes and Italian seasoning if using.

Cook in Slow Cooker

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

Serve the meatballs over pasta or in a sub for a delicious meal.

Storage Tips

Storing your leftover chicken meatballs is a breeze! Once they have cooled completely, place them in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing the meatballs. Simply place them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. This way, you can enjoy a quick weeknight meal anytime!

When you're ready to eat the frozen meatballs, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight, or reheat them directly from frozen in a slow cooker or microwave. They will retain their delicious flavor and texture, making them a convenient option for busy days.

Serving Suggestions

These chicken meatballs are incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways. For a classic Italian meal, pair them with spaghetti and marinara sauce. If you're in the mood for something different, try serving them on slider buns with your favorite toppings for a fun twist. You can also enjoy them over a bed of zoodles (zucchini noodles) for a low-carb option, or in a hearty soup for a comforting meal.

Don’t forget about garnishing! A sprinkle of fresh parsley or a dusting of additional Parmesan cheese can elevate the presentation of your dish. Serve them with a side of garlic bread or a fresh garden salad for a well-rounded meal that’s sure to satisfy.

Nutritional Information

These slow cooker chicken meatballs not only taste great but also offer a nutritious option for your family meals. Ground chicken is leaner than beef or pork, providing a good source of protein without excess fat. Each serving of meatballs contains essential nutrients, including vitamins and minerals from the added herbs and spices. This makes them an excellent choice for those looking to maintain a balanced diet while still enjoying flavorful food.

To further enhance the nutritional value, consider incorporating additional vegetables into the sauce or serving them with a side of steamed veggies. This way, you can create a wholesome meal that meets your dietary goals while still being deliciously satisfying.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use turkey instead of chicken?

Yes, ground turkey is a great alternative and will work well in this recipe.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze these meatballs?

Absolutely! You can freeze the cooked meatballs for up to 3 months.

→ What can I serve with these meatballs?

They pair perfectly with spaghetti, on a sub roll, or with a side of vegetables.