Some evenings, I want a meal that doesn’t rush me, something that quietly cooks while I get through the rest of the day.
That’s when this Tuscan chicken meatball recipe feels like a breath of fresh air.
The slow cooker handles nearly everything, and I love how the kitchen fills with a soft, herby smell long before dinner is ready.
It’s the kind of comfort that doesn’t demand effort, just time.
And when the gnocchi soaks up that creamy sauce, it brings everything together in a way that feels slow, warm, and steady.
If you need a meal that works while you rest, this one fits beautifully.
Why I Enjoy Making This Dish?
I like recipes that let me prep once and forget about them for hours, and this one does exactly that.
The slow simmer blends the flavors gently without any stirring or checking.
The meatballs stay tender, the sauce turns silky, and the gnocchi finishes everything off without extra pans.
It feels like dinner assembles itself while I handle everything else.
And I love that a simple list of ingredients becomes something so comforting.
It’s a dish I return to on days when I want good food without the rush.
Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken Meatballs With Gnocchi Recipe
Equipment
- Slow cooker
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring spoons
- Measuring cups
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Wooden spoon
- Small skillet (optional for browning)
Ingredients
For the Meatballs
- 1 lb ground chicken
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 2 tbsp Parmesan
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Sauce
- 1 ½ cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes chopped
- 2 cups spinach
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp chili flakes optional
To Finish
- 1 lb shelf-stable gnocchi
- Extra Parmesan for serving
Instructions
- Mix the ground chicken with breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan, and seasonings in a bowl.
- Shape the mixture into small meatballs, just enough for one or two bites.
- Lightly brown the meatballs in a skillet for extra flavor.
- Place them gently into the slow cooker.
- Whisk the broth, cream, herbs, and sun-dried tomatoes together.
- Pour this mixture over the meatballs in the cooker.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 4–5 hours until everything softens.
- Stir in the spinach and let it wilt into the sauce.
- Add the gnocchi and cook for 20–25 minutes more until tender.
- Taste for seasoning and add Parmesan before serving.
- ServingI spoon the meatballs and gnocchi into a bowl and finish with more Parmesan.A little fresh basil on top makes it smell even better.
| Nutrition | Value |
| Calories | 430kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 31g |
| Fibre | 3g |
| Fat | 23g |
| Protein | 26g |
| Cholesterol | 165g |
How This Recipe Finds Its Spot on Kitchen Countertop
I reach for this meal when I want something filling but low-pressure. Most of the work happens early, and the slow cooker carries it from there.
It also helps on days when dinner needs to stretch a little. The meatballs and gnocchi make a hearty bowl without feeling heavy.
And when I want to serve something that looks impressive with very little effort, this dish works.
By the time it’s ready, it tastes like I spent the whole evening cooking.
What To Serve With This Recipe?
This recipe is hearty on its own, but I like pairing it with something fresh on the side.
These options keep things simple and balanced:
- Greek Zucchini Salad
- Cucumber Salad
- Chinese Chicken Salad
- Tomato Burrata Salad
- Tuna Salad With Apples
Everything adds brightness without competing with the creamy sauce.
Conclusion
Every time I make this slow cooker Tuscan chicken dish, I’m reminded how relaxing cooking can be.
The slow simmer takes over, and all I have to do is check in near the end.
It’s a bowl that feels warm, cozy, and complete, perfect for nights when I want something comforting without effort.
And no matter when I serve it, it always brings that familiar, satisfying feeling.
