Imagine coming home to the irresistible aroma of tender chicken meatballs simmering in a creamy, sun-kissed Tuscan sauce, all while your slow cooker does the heavy lifting. Sounds like a dream, right? This Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken Meatballs with Gnocchi recipe is here to make that dream a reality. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners, this dish combines the rich, comforting flavors of Tuscan cuisine—think garlic, spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes—with the convenience of your trusty slow cooker.

Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting out, this recipe is designed to be approachable and foolproof. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile! Swap in your favorite ingredients or adjust the spice level to suit your taste. Ready to create a meal that’s as satisfying to make as it is to eat? Let’s dive in!

Key Benefits

If you’re looking for a meal that’s equal parts comforting, flavorful, and effortless, this Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken Meatballs with Gnocchi is your answer. Here’s why this recipe deserves a spot in your weekly rotation:

Effortless Cooking: Let your slow cooker do the work! Simply prep the ingredients, set it, and forget it. Perfect for busy days when you want a homemade meal without the hassle.
Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The creamy Tuscan sauce, packed with garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and spinach, is a flavor explosion that everyone will love.
Versatile & Customizable: Swap out ingredients to suit your preferences or dietary needs—dairy-free cream, turkey meatballs, or even vegan gnocchi work beautifully.
Meal Prep Friendly: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week. The flavors only get better with time!
Healthy Comfort Food: Packed with protein and veggies, this dish feels indulgent without being heavy.

Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or prepping meals for the week, this recipe is designed to make your life easier and your taste buds happier.

Ingredients

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating this flavorful Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken Meatballs with Gnocchi. Here’s everything you’ll need to bring this dish to life:

For the Chicken Meatballs

1 lb ground chicken (or substitute with ground turkey)
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (use gluten-free if needed)
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 large egg, lightly beaten
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper

For the Tuscan Sauce

2 tbsp olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup sun-dried tomatoes (oil-packed, drained and chopped)
2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
1 1/2 cups chicken broth (low-sodium preferred)
1 cup heavy cream (or substitute with coconut milk for dairy-free)
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp cornstarch (optional, for thickening)

For the Gnocchi

1 lb gnocchi (store-bought or homemade; use gluten-free if needed)

Garnishes (Optional)

Fresh basil leaves, torn
Extra Parmesan cheese, grated
A drizzle of olive oil or balsamic glaze

Ingredient Tips

Ground Chicken: For juicier meatballs, opt for ground chicken thighs instead of breast.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: If using dry-packed sun-dried tomatoes, rehydrate them in warm water for 10 minutes before chopping.
Spinach: Baby spinach works best for its tender texture, but regular spinach is fine too—just chop it smaller.
Gnocchi: Add it during the last 30 minutes of cooking to prevent it from becoming mushy

With these ingredients ready, you’re all set to create a dish that’s bursting with Tuscan flavors. Let’s move on to the fun part—cooking!

Instructions

Ready to transform these simple ingredients into a mouthwatering meal? Follow these easy steps to create your Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken Meatballs with Gnocchi. I’ll guide you through each part of the process, so you can feel confident every step of the way!

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Meatballs

In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
Gently mix everything together until just combined—avoid overmixing to keep the meatballs tender.
Roll the mixture into 1-inch meatballs (about 20-24). Pro tip: Lightly wet your hands to prevent sticking!

Step 2: Sear the Meatballs (Optional but Recommended)

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Sear the meatballs in batches for 1-2 minutes per side, just until golden brown. This step adds extra flavor but can be skipped if you’re short on time.
Transfer the meatballs to your slow cooker.

Step 3: Make the Tuscan Sauce

In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil if needed, then sauté the minced garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes and spinach, cooking until the spinach wilts slightly.
Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes.
If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix cornstarch with 1 tbsp of water and stir it into the sauce.

Step 4: Assemble in the Slow Cooker

Pour the Tuscan sauce over the meatballs in the slow cooker.
Gently stir to ensure the meatballs are evenly coated.
Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours.

Step 5: Add the Gnocchi

About 30 minutes before the cooking time ends, stir in the gnocchi. This ensures it cooks through without becoming too soft.
Cover and let it finish cooking.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Once done, give everything a gentle stir. The sauce should be creamy, and the meatballs tender.
Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves, extra Parmesan cheese, or a drizzle of olive oil.

Pro Tips for Success

Avoid Overcooking: Check the meatballs’ internal temperature—they’re done at 165°F (74°C).
Stir Gently: Be careful when stirring to keep the meatballs intact.
Customize the Sauce: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick or a splash of white wine for extra depth.

And there you have it—a hearty, flavorful dish that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. Now, let’s talk about how to serve and enjoy it!

Pro Tips and Variations

Even the best recipes can be tweaked to suit your taste or dietary needs. Here are some pro tips and creative variations to make this Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken Meatballs with Gnocchi truly your own:

Pro Tips for Perfect Results

Meatball Texture: For extra-tender meatballs, avoid overmixing the ground chicken mixture. Handle it gently!
Sauce Consistency: If the sauce is too thin, mix 1 tsp of cornstarch with 2 tbsp of cold water and stir it in during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Gnocchi Timing: Add the gnocchi during the last 30 minutes to prevent it from becoming mushy. If using frozen gnocchi, no need to thaw—just add it directly.
Fresh Herbs: Stir in fresh basil or parsley at the end for a burst of freshness and color.

Ingredient Variations

Protein Swap: Use ground turkey, beef, or even plant-based meat for the meatballs.
Dairy-Free Option: Replace heavy cream with coconut milk and use a dairy-free Parmesan alternative.
Vegan Version: Use vegan meatballs, plant-based gnocchi, and a creamy cashew or almond-based sauce.
Extra Veggies: Add sliced mushrooms, zucchini, or roasted red peppers for more veggie goodness.

Flavor Boosters

Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
Umami Richness: Stir in 1 tbsp of tomato paste or a splash of balsamic vinegar for deeper flavor.
Herb Infusion: Add a sprig of fresh rosemary or thyme to the slow cooker for an aromatic twist.

Meal Prep and Storage Tips

Make-Ahead: Prepare the meatballs and sauce up to a day in advance. Store them separately in the fridge, then combine in the slow cooker when ready to cook.
Freezing: Freeze leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Reheating: Add a splash of chicken broth or cream when reheating to restore the sauce’s creamy consistency.

With these tips and variations, you can customize this recipe to fit your preferences or experiment with new flavors. Now, let’s talk about the best ways to serve and enjoy this dish!

Serving Suggestions

Now that your Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken Meatballs with Gnocchi is ready, it’s time to plate it up and make it a meal to remember! Here are some delicious and creative ways to serve this dish, along with tips to elevate your dining experience:

How to Serve

Family-Style: Transfer the meatballs, gnocchi, and sauce to a large serving bowl or platter. Let everyone dig in and help themselves!
Individual Portions: Spoon the dish into shallow bowls, ensuring each serving gets a mix of meatballs, gnocchi, and that creamy Tuscan sauce.
Garnish Generously: Top with fresh basil leaves, a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, or a drizzle of olive oil for a restaurant-worthy finish.

Perfect Pairings

Bread: Serve with warm, crusty bread or garlic knots to soak up every bit of that creamy sauce.
Salad: Pair with a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette or a classic Caesar salad for a fresh contrast.
Wine: A glass of Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio complements the rich, creamy flavors beautifully.

Side Dish Ideas

Roasted Vegetables: Try roasted asparagus, broccoli, or zucchini for a healthy, colorful addition.
Garlic Breadsticks: Soft, buttery breadsticks are always a crowd-pleaser.
Antipasto Platter: Start the meal with a spread of olives, cured meats, and marinated artichokes for an Italian-inspired feast.

Presentation Tips

Color Pop: Add a handful of fresh spinach or arugula on top for a vibrant touch.
Cheese Finish: Grate extra Parmesan over the dish just before serving for a rich, savory note.
Drizzle Magic: A swirl of balsamic glaze or pesto on the plate adds both flavor and visual appeal.

Leftover Ideas

Next-Day Lunch: Pack leftovers for a satisfying lunch—just reheat and enjoy!
Pasta Upgrade: Toss any extra meatballs and sauce with cooked pasta for a quick new meal.
Stuffed Veggies: Use the mixture to stuff bell peppers or zucchini boats, then bake until tender.

With these serving suggestions, you can turn this dish into a complete, memorable meal. Now, let’s wrap things up with a few final thoughts and FAQs to answer any lingering questions!

There you have it—a Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken Meatballs with Gnocchi recipe that’s as easy to make as it is delicious to eat! This dish is the perfect blend of comforting flavors and effortless cooking, making it a go-to for busy weeknights, cozy family dinners, or even meal prep for the week ahead.

What I love most about this recipe is its versatility. Whether you stick to the classic version or experiment with your own twists (hello, spicy kick or extra veggies!), it’s a dish that adapts to your tastes and lifestyle. Plus, the slow cooker does most of the work, so you can focus on enjoying the process—and the compliments from everyone at the table!

So, grab your ingredients, fire up that slow cooker, and get ready to create a meal that’s sure to become a favorite. Don’t forget to share your creations with me—I’d love to hear how you made it your own!

Can I use frozen meatballs instead of making them from scratch?

Absolutely! If you’re short on time, store-bought frozen meatballs work just fine. Opt for Italian-seasoned or plain chicken meatballs, and skip the searing step. Just add them directly to the slow cooker with the sauce.

How do I prevent the gnocchi from getting mushy?

The key is timing! Add the gnocchi during the last 30 minutes of cooking. If you’re using frozen gnocchi, there’s no need to thaw—just toss it in as is. Stir gently to ensure even cooking.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Swap the heavy cream for coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative, and use a vegan Parmesan cheese. The result will still be creamy and delicious.

What’s the best way to thicken the sauce if it’s too thin?

Mix 1 tsp of cornstarch with 2 tbsp of cold water, then stir it into the sauce during the last 30 minutes of cooking. This will give you a rich, velvety consistency.

Can I cook this on high instead of low?

Definitely! If you’re in a hurry, cook the dish on high for 2-3 hours instead of low for 4-5 hours. Just keep an eye on the gnocchi to ensure it doesn’t overcook.

How do I store and reheat leftovers?

Storage: Let the dish cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Warm it up on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave. Add a splash of broth or cream to restore the sauce’s creaminess.

Can I add other vegetables to this dish?

Of course! This recipe is super flexible. Try adding sliced mushrooms, zucchini, or roasted red peppers for extra flavor and nutrition. Just add them at the beginning with the sauce.

What can I serve with this dish to make it a complete meal?

Bread: Warm, crusty bread or garlic knots are perfect for soaking up the sauce.
Salad: A simple green salad or Caesar salad adds a fresh contrast.
Wine: Pair it with a glass of Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio for a restaurant-worthy experience.

Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken Meatballs with Gnocchi

Sarah

Indulge in creamy Tuscan Chicken meatballs with gnocchi—easy slow cooker recipe for a flavorful, family-friendly dinner

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20

Cook Time 3

Total Time 3 20

Course Main Dish

Cuisine Italian

Servings 6 slices

Calories 450 kcal