The aroma of Chicken Parm Meatballs wafting through your kitchen can instantly transport you to a cozy Italian bistro, where every bite is a harmonious blend of juicy chicken, zesty marinara, and gooey cheese. Savory chicken linguine side dish Picture this: you take a bite, and the savory flavors dance on your tongue while the warm, cheesy goodness envelops you in a comforting embrace. Butternut squash side dish It’s like a hug from your grandma, but with more carbs.
I first discovered this slow cooker recipe during one of those frantic weeknights when dinner seemed impossible. My friends couldn’t stop raving about it, so I had to give it a whirl. Bolognese sauce for pasta The moment I lifted the lid to reveal those tender meatballs simmering in rich tomato sauce, my family stood in awe. You could almost hear their taste buds cheering!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These Chicken Parm Meatballs are incredibly easy to prepare, making weeknight dinners a breeze
- The flavor profile is a delightful mix of savory and tangy that appeals to all palates
- Visually, the dish is a feast for the eyes with its vibrant colors and glistening cheese topping
- Plus, they’re versatile enough for sandwiches or pasta!
My kids still rave about that night when we devoured these meatballs like they were candy.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Ground Chicken: Fresh ground chicken ensures moist and flavorful meatballs; you might even choose turkey for a lighter option. For more inspiration, check out this sticky honey chicken recipe recipe.
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Breadcrumbs: Use seasoned breadcrumbs for added flavor; they help bind everything together while keeping meatballs tender.
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Parmesan Cheese: Grate fresh Parmesan for maximum flavor; its nutty taste elevates the dish beyond standard meatballs.
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Fresh Basil: Opt for fresh basil leaves for an aromatic touch; they add brightness that complements the rich sauce beautifully.
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Marinara Sauce: Choose a quality store-bought sauce or homemade; it’s key for that authentic Italian flair.
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Mozzarella Cheese: Shredded mozzarella creates that ooey-gooey top layer; it’s impossible to resist melted cheese!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Forming the Meatballs: Start by combining ground chicken, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, chopped basil, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Mix until well combined but don’t overwork it; nobody wants tough meatballs!
Cooking in the Slow Cooker: Shape the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and place them gently in your slow cooker. Pour marinara sauce over them until they’re lovingly coated—think of it as giving them a cozy bath.
Setting the Temperature: Cover your slow cooker and set it to low heat for 6-8 hours or high heat for 3-4 hours. As the hours pass, anticipation builds—your home will smell divine!
Add Mozzarella Magic: About 30 minutes before serving, sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the meatballs. Cheesy stuffed flank steak Close the lid again and let it melt into deliciousness—this is when things get cheesy!
Savoring the Moment: Once done cooking, serve these beauties hot over pasta or on sub rolls for sandwiches. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for that Instagram-worthy finish.
Enjoy every morsel of your Chicken Parm Meatballs—you’ve earned it!
You Must Know
- Chicken Parm Meatballs are a game-changer for weeknight dinners
- They’re juicy, cheesy, and full of flavor
- Don’t forget the fresh basil; it elevates the dish to new heights!
- Plus, the slow cooker does all the hard work for you—just set it and forget it
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by browning the meatballs in a skillet for flavor, then transfer them to the slow cooker with sauce and cheese. This method ensures that every bite is packed with deliciousness while saving time.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out ground chicken for turkey or add spices like red pepper flakes for some kick. Personalizing your Chicken Parm Meatballs makes them uniquely yours!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover Chicken Parm Meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Keeping your hands wet when rolling meatballs prevents sticking
- Always use fresh ingredients for maximum flavor
- Letting meatballs rest before serving enhances their juiciness and helps flavors meld beautifully
I remember the first time I made Chicken Parm Meatballs—a dinner party gone wild! My friends couldn’t stop raving about them, and someone even suggested I open a restaurant. The compliments were endless!
FAQ
What can I serve with Chicken Parm Meatballs?
Serve them over pasta, in subs, or alongside garlic bread for a complete meal.
Can I freeze Chicken Parm Meatballs?
Absolutely! Freeze them in portions for quick meals later on.
How long should I cook them in a slow cooker?
Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours for tender meatballs.
Chicken Parm Meatballs
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Chicken Parm Meatballs are a delightful twist on a classic Italian dish, combining juicy ground chicken with zesty marinara and gooey mozzarella. Perfect for busy weeknights, this slow cooker recipe creates tender meatballs that simmer in rich tomato sauce, making them a family favorite. Serve over pasta or in sub rolls for an irresistible meal that transports you straight to Italy!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup chopped fresh basil
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, chopped basil, salt, and pepper until mixed but not overworked.
- Form the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and place them in the slow cooker.
- Pour marinara sauce over the meatballs until coated.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- About 30 minutes before serving, sprinkle mozzarella on top and let it melt.
- Serve hot over pasta or in sub rolls, garnished with fresh basil.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 meatballs (150g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
