There’s something truly magical about a slow cooker recipe, especially when it comes to meatballs.
These Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken Meatballs with Gnocchi are not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare.
With lean ground chicken, aromatic herbs, and the comforting texture of gnocchi, this dish is perfect for a cozy dinner at home.
Just set it and forget it! Let’s dive into why this recipe should be on your must-try list.
Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try
This dish stands out for several reasons.
First, the combination of flavors in the meatballs, with savory herbs and sun-dried tomatoes, creates a taste that transports you straight to the heart of Tuscany.
Second, cooking the meatballs slowly allows all those delicious flavors to meld together, resulting in tender and juicy bites.
Plus, you get the added goodness of gnocchi and spinach right in the same pot! It’s a complete meal that is satisfying and wholesome.
Ingredients
To make these mouthwatering Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken Meatballs with Gnocchi, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 pound (450 g) lean ground chicken
- 1 small yellow onion, grated
- 6 cloves garlic, minced (divided)
- ½ cup dried breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- ¾ cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes, packed in oil and drained (divided)
- 1 cup (85 g) grated Parmesan cheese (divided)
- 3 teaspoons Italian seasoning (divided)
- 1 ½ teaspoons kosher salt (divided)
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper (divided)
- 2 tablespoons (30 ml) olive oil
- 2 cups (480 ml) chicken stock
- 1 cup (240 ml) half-and-half (single cream in the UK)
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch (cornflour in the UK, see Note 1*)
- 16 ounces (450 g) packaged gnocchi
- 2 cups baby spinach leaves
How To Make Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken Meatballs with Gnocchi
Creating this scrumptious dish is a breeze! Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you along the way.
Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, grated onion, 3 cloves of minced garlic, dried breadcrumbs, egg, ¼ cup of the sun-dried tomatoes, ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, ½ teaspoon of kosher salt, and ½ teaspoon of black pepper.
Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything together until just combined.
Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatballs tough.
Step 2: Form the Meatballs
Once your mixture is ready, use your hands to form meatballs about 1 inch in size.
You should get around 16-20 meatballs, depending on how big you make them.
Place the formed meatballs on a plate while you prepare the slow cooker.
Step 3: Sauté the Garlic
In a skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil.
Once the oil is hot, add the remaining 3 cloves of minced garlic.
Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
This step enhances the garlic’s flavor and gives the dish depth.
Step 4: Transfer to Slow Cooker
Pour the sautéed garlic into the slow cooker along with the chicken stock, the remaining ½ cup of sun-dried tomatoes, 2 teaspoons of Italian seasoning, 1 teaspoon of kosher salt, and ½ teaspoon of black pepper.
Stir to combine.
Step 5: Add Meatballs
Carefully add the meatballs into the slow cooker.
Make sure to nestle them in the liquid so they can cook evenly.
Step 6: Slow Cook
Cover your slow cooker and set it to low for 3-4 hours or high for 2 hours.
The meatballs should be cooked through and tender when done.
Step 7: Add Half-and-Half and Gnocchi
Once the cooking time is up, stir in the half-and-half and cornstarch.
This will help create a creamy sauce for your meatballs.
Then, add the gnocchi and give it a gentle stir.
Cover and cook on high for an additional 30 minutes or until the gnocchi floats to the top and is tender.
Step 8: Stir in Spinach
Finally, add the baby spinach leaves into the slow cooker.
Stir gently to combine and let it wilt for a few minutes.
Step 9: Serve and Enjoy!
Scoop your delicious Tuscan chicken meatballs and gnocchi into bowls.
Top with the remaining grated Parmesan cheese, a sprinkle of fresh herbs if desired, and serve warm.
Enjoy every flavorful bite of your culinary creation!
Expert Tips
- For even more flavor, consider adding fresh chopped basil or parsley as a garnish before serving.
- If you want a little kick, feel free to add red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- Make sure to drain the sun-dried tomatoes well to avoid excess oil in the dish.
- If you prefer a lighter meal, you can use Greek yogurt instead of half-and-half for a lower-calorie option.
Variations and Customizations
- Substitute ground turkey or beef for the chicken if you prefer a different flavor or texture.
- Add other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms to the slow cooker for added nutrition.
- Use gluten-free breadcrumbs if you need a gluten-free option.
- For a herby flavor, mix in some fresh ricotta cheese with the meatball mixture.
How to Store Leftovers
Storing leftovers from this delicious meal is simple.
Once cooled, place the meatballs and gnocchi in an airtight container.
They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
When you’re ready to eat, you can reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop.
If needed, add a splash of chicken stock or water to loosen the sauce.
FAQ
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator.
Simply add them to the slow cooker with the sauce and proceed with the cooking instructions when you’re ready to serve.
Can I freeze the meatballs?
Yes, these meatballs freeze beautifully! You can freeze them raw or cooked.
Make sure to let them cool down first and store them in an airtight container.
They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
What can I serve with this meal?
This dish is hearty enough to stand alone, but you can also serve it with a fresh salad, crusty bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal experience.
How do I know when the meatballs are cooked through?
The best way to check is by using a meat thermometer.
The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
Conclusion
These Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken Meatballs with Gnocchi are a game-changer for any weeknight dinner.
With minimal prep and maximum flavor, you’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe time and again.
Perfectly seasoned chicken meatballs, creamy sauce, and tender gnocchi create a deliciously satisfying meal that everyone will love.
So grab your slow cooker, and enjoy the delightful flavors of Tuscany right in your home! Happy cooking!
