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

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

Enjoy the convenience of a hearty meal with these Set-It-and-Forget-It Slow Cooker Chicken Meatballs. Perfectly seasoned and tender, they are sure to please the whole family.

Heidi Lawson

Created by

Heidi Lawson

Last updated on 2025-12-30T01:01:11.374Z

These slow cooker chicken meatballs are a game changer for busy weeknights. Simply mix the ingredients, set your slow cooker, and forget about it until dinner time!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Effortless preparation with minimal cleanup.
  • Juicy and flavorful meatballs cooked to perfection.
  • Perfect for meal prep or a cozy family dinner.

The Perfect Meal for Any Occasion

These Set-It-and-Forget-It Slow Cooker Chicken Meatballs are a versatile dish that can be enjoyed at any time of the year. Whether it's a busy weekday or a relaxed weekend, this recipe fits seamlessly into your schedule. The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting while you focus on other tasks or simply relax. Pair these meatballs with pasta, rice, or even a fresh salad for a complete meal that everyone will love.

Family gatherings, potlucks, or casual weeknight dinners become stress-free with this recipe. The comforting aroma of the meatballs simmering in marinara sauce will entice everyone to the table. Plus, they’re easy to serve, allowing you to spend more quality time with your loved ones instead of being stuck in the kitchen.

Customizing Your Meatballs

One of the best things about this meatball recipe is its adaptability. You can easily customize the flavors to suit your family’s preferences. For a spicier kick, add red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños. If you prefer a sweeter touch, mix in a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup. You can also experiment with different herbs and spices, such as basil or oregano, to elevate the flavor profile.

For those with dietary restrictions, this recipe can be modified as well. Substitute ground turkey or plant-based meat alternatives to create a healthier or vegetarian version. The key is to maintain the moisture and flavor, so adjust the breadcrumbs and seasonings accordingly to ensure delicious results.

Storage and Meal Prep Tips

These meatballs are perfect for meal prep! Once cooked, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Simply reheat them in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of marinara sauce for a quick and satisfying meal. They also freeze beautifully, so consider making a double batch. Just let them cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe bag or container, where they can last for up to three months.

When it comes to serving, you can get creative! Serve the meatballs on sub rolls for delicious meatball sandwiches, or toss them in a salad for a protein-packed lunch. The possibilities are endless, making this recipe a fantastic addition to your weekly meal rotation.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create these delicious meatballs:

Chicken Meatballs

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

Sauce

  • 1 cup marinara sauce
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth

Once you have all the ingredients ready, you're set to start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your chicken meatballs:

Mix Ingredients

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

Form Meatballs

Using your hands, form the mixture into meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.

Prepare Slow Cooker

Place the meatballs in the slow cooker. In a separate bowl, mix the marinara sauce and chicken broth, then pour over the meatballs.

Cook

Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or until the meatballs are cooked through and tender.

Serve the meatballs over pasta or with crusty bread to soak up the sauce!

Nutrition Information

These Set-It-and-Forget-It Slow Cooker Chicken Meatballs are not only delicious but also a healthy option for your family. Ground chicken is a lean source of protein, making these meatballs a nutritious choice without sacrificing flavor. When paired with marinara sauce, you also benefit from the vitamins and minerals found in tomatoes, such as vitamin C and potassium, enhancing your meal's overall nutritional value.

Each serving provides a balanced mix of protein, carbohydrates, and fats, ideal for maintaining energy levels throughout the day. If you're mindful of calorie intake, this recipe can easily fit into a balanced meal plan, especially when served with wholesome sides like vegetables or whole grains.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your dining experience, consider serving these meatballs with a variety of sides. A simple spaghetti or zucchini noodles make a classic pairing, while a side of garlic bread can add a comforting touch. For a lighter option, serve them over a bed of steamed greens or in a fresh salad topped with a tangy vinaigrette.

Don’t forget to garnish! A sprinkle of fresh parsley or shredded Parmesan cheese can add a burst of color and flavor to your dish. Moreover, you can serve the meatballs with a side of dipping sauce like ranch or a spicy aioli for an extra layer of flavor.

Secondary image

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken for the meatballs?

Yes, you can use frozen ground chicken, but make sure it is fully thawed before mixing with other ingredients.

→ How can I make these meatballs gluten-free?

Use gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of regular ones, and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

→ Can I cook these on high instead of low?

Yes, you can cook the meatballs on high for about 3 hours, but the texture may be slightly different.

→ What should I serve with these meatballs?

They pair well with spaghetti, rice, or even in a sub sandwich topped with cheese.

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

Enjoy the convenience of a hearty meal with these Set-It-and-Forget-It Slow Cooker Chicken Meatballs. Perfectly seasoned and tender, they are sure to please the whole family.

Prep Time15 minutes
Cooking Duration6 hours
Overall Time6 hours 15 minutes

Created by: Heidi Lawson

Recipe Type: Quick & Easy

Skill Level: Beginner

Final Quantity: 4 servings

What You'll Need

Chicken Meatballs

  1. 1 pound ground chicken
  2. 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  3. 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  4. 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  5. 1 egg
  6. 2 cloves garlic, minced
  7. 1 teaspoon salt
  8. 1/2 teaspoon pepper
  9. 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Sauce

  1. 1 cup marinara sauce
  2. 1/2 cup chicken broth

How-To Steps

Step 01

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

Step 02

Using your hands, form the mixture into meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.

Step 03

Place the meatballs in the slow cooker. In a separate bowl, mix the marinara sauce and chicken broth, then pour over the meatballs.

Step 04

Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or until the meatballs are cooked through and tender.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 320 kcal
  • Total Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Cholesterol: 90mg
  • Sodium: 450mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 18g
  • Dietary Fiber: 1g
  • Sugars: 4g
  • Protein: 25g