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 fresh parsley; 1 egg; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce; 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Set-It-and-Forget-It Slow Cooker Chicken Meatballs are perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings. Just mix, roll, and let the slow cooker do the work for you!

Created by

Imogen Walker

Last updated on 2025-12-30T01:25:11.140Z

These Slow Cooker Chicken Meatballs are not only easy to make but also incredibly flavorful. With a blend of spices and herbs, they make a delightful meal that everyone will love. Just set it in the morning and come home to a delicious dinner!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Effortless preparation with minimal cleanup
Juicy and tender meatballs bursting with flavor
Perfect for meal prep or entertaining guests

      

A Perfect Meal for Any Occasion

Set-It-and-Forget-It Slow Cooker Chicken Meatballs are incredibly versatile, making them an ideal choice for various occasions. Whether you're hosting a casual get-together, preparing a family dinner, or in need of a quick meal prep option, these meatballs fit the bill perfectly. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a dish that is sure to impress, allowing you to focus on enjoying the moment rather than stressing in the kitchen.

These chicken meatballs can be served in various ways, whether over pasta, in a sub sandwich, or alongside a fresh salad. The marinara sauce adds a rich flavor that complements the juicy meatballs, enhancing your dining experience. Plus, they can be easily customized with different spices or herbs to suit your palate, making them a delightful staple in your meal rotation.

Meal Prep Made Easy

One of the biggest advantages of this slow cooker chicken meatball recipe is its suitability for meal prep. The meatballs can be made in larger batches and stored in the refrigerator or freezer for future meals. This not only saves time during busy weekdays but also ensures that you have a healthy, homemade option ready to go when hunger strikes.

To meal prep, simply double or triple the recipe and divide the cooked meatballs into individual portions. Store them in airtight containers or freezer bags, and they will stay fresh for several weeks. When you're ready to eat, just reheat the meatballs in the microwave or on the stovetop, and you’ll have a delicious meal in minutes.

Tips for Perfect Meatballs

For the best results, use fresh ground chicken instead of pre-packaged varieties. Freshly ground meat tends to be juicier and packed with flavor. Additionally, don't overmix the meatball mixture; just combine the ingredients until they're well mixed. Overworking the meat can result in tough meatballs.

If you're looking to add a twist to your meatballs, consider incorporating finely chopped vegetables such as bell peppers or onions into the mixture. This not only boosts the flavor but also adds extra nutrition. Adjust the seasoning according to your taste, and feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to create your personalized version.

Ingredients

Chicken Meatballs

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

Sauce

1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Mix all ingredients well and form into meatballs.

Instructions

Prepare the Meatballs

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

Form the Meatballs

Roll the mixture into bite-sized meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.

Set It in the Slow Cooker

Pour the marinara sauce into the bottom of the slow cooker. Place the meatballs on top of the sauce. If desired, sprinkle red pepper flakes over the meatballs.

Cook

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

Serve hot with pasta, on a sub, or as an appetizer!

Serving Suggestions

These slow cooker chicken meatballs are incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways. For a classic dish, serve them over a bed of spaghetti and top with extra marinara sauce and grated Parmesan cheese. Alternatively, you can fill a toasted sub roll for a hearty meatball sandwich, perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.

If you're looking for a lighter option, serve the meatballs alongside a crisp salad for a balanced meal. The flavors of the marinara sauce pair wonderfully with fresh greens, creating a satisfying dish without the carbs. You can also skewer the meatballs on toothpicks for a fun appetizer at parties.

Storage and Reheating

Storing your leftover chicken meatballs is straightforward. Allow them to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days or frozen for longer storage. When freezing, make sure to separate the meatballs with parchment paper to prevent them from sticking together.

To reheat, simply microwave the meatballs until heated through or warm them on the stove with a splash of marinara sauce. If using the oven, reheat them at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes, ensuring they reach a safe temperature. This makes it easy to enjoy your delicious meatballs even days after cooking!

Nutritional Benefits

These chicken meatballs are not only delicious but also a healthier alternative to traditional beef meatballs. Ground chicken is lower in fat and calories while still providing a good source of protein, making it a fantastic option for those looking to maintain a balanced diet.

Additionally, incorporating fresh parsley and garlic not only enhances the flavor but also adds nutritional benefits. Parsley is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, while garlic is known for its immune-boosting properties. This recipe is an excellent way to enjoy a wholesome meal without sacrificing taste!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I freeze the meatballs?

Yes! You can freeze the uncooked or cooked meatballs. Just make sure to store them in an airtight container.

→ Can I use turkey instead of chicken?

Absolutely! Ground turkey works great as a substitute for ground chicken in this recipe.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

Leftover meatballs can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

→ What do I serve with meatballs?

These meatballs go well with spaghetti, on a sandwich, or served as an appetizer with toothpicks!