Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken Meatballs With Gnocchi Recipe

If you’re searching for a comforting and flavorful meal that practically cooks itself, you’re going to adore this recipe for Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken Meatballs With Gnocchi. Tender chicken meatballs infused with sun-dried tomatoes and fresh herbs simmer gently in a creamy, garlicky sauce, while pillowy gnocchi soak up every bit of that luscious flavor. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, perfect for sharing with family or friends on any cozy night in.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is the secret to making this dish spectacular. Each item plays a crucial part—from the fragrant basil and tangy sun-dried tomatoes to the tender gnocchi and creamy Parmesan—that come together to create a multi-dimensional taste and texture sensation.

• 1 lb. (500g) ground chicken or turkey: The base protein that keeps these meatballs light but packed with flavor.
• ½ cup (66g) sun-dried tomatoes: Adds a sweet, concentrated tanginess that boosts the Tuscan vibe.
• 1 onion and 3 garlic cloves: Essential aromatics that build a savory foundation for the meatballs and sauce.
• Handful fresh basil leaves: Brings a fresh herbal brightness to balance the richness of the cream.
• 1 large egg: Binds the meatballs perfectly to keep them tender yet sturdy.
• 1 tsp Italian herbs or Italian seasoning: Classic seasoning that deepens the rustic flavor profile.
• 1 tsp garlic powder and ½ tsp ground pepper: Delivers extra layers of savory warmth and subtle heat.
• 3 tbsp grated Parmesan: Boosts umami and cheese elegance both inside the meatballs and in the sauce.
• ½ cup (75g) Panko breadcrumbs: Lightens the meatball texture for that perfect bite.
• 2 tbsp sun-dried tomato oil: Used for browning the meatballs and infusing more complex tomato flavor.
• ¼ cup (60 ml) dry white wine: Adds acidity and depth during the slow cooking.
• 2 cups (480 ml) chicken broth: The cooking liquid that keeps everything moist and flavorful.
• ½ cup (120 ml) cream: Makes the sauce decadently smooth and rich.
• 3 tbsp grated Parmesan: Melts into the sauce for extra cheesy goodness.
• 17.5 oz (500g) gnocchi: Soft, pillowy dumplings that soak up the creamy sauce.
• 7 oz (200g) baby spinach leaves: Adds bright color and subtle earthiness to finish the dish perfectly.

How to Make Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken Meatballs With Gnocchi

Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture

First, chop the onion, garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh basil until coarsely blended—either with a mini chopper or finely by hand for that rustic charm. This mixture bursts with flavor and forms the heart of your meatballs. Combine it with ground chicken, Italian herbs, garlic powder, Parmesan, breadcrumbs, an egg, and seasoning. Stir everything together gently but thoroughly to create a mix that’s moist and ready to form into meatballs.

Step 2: Shape and Brown the Meatballs

Using a small cookie scoop helps keep the meatballs even in size, ensuring they cook uniformly. Lightly oil your hands to prevent sticking and roll each meatball carefully. Next, heat the sun-dried tomato oil in your slow cooker pot or a pan and brown the meatballs for about five minutes, turning once. This caramelization step adds irresistible color and locks in flavor even though they won’t be fully cooked yet.

Step 3: Begin Slow Cooking

Deglaze the pan (or your slow cooker insert) with white wine for a quick simmer to pick up all those flavorful browned bits. After that, pour in the chicken broth, cover, and cook everything on HIGH for 2-3 hours. This slow cooking tenderizes the meat while melding together the aromas and tastes into something truly special.

Step 4: Add Cream, Cheese, Sun-Dried Tomatoes, and Gnocchi

When the slow cooker time is nearly done, stir in the cream, extra Parmesan, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, and gnocchi. Cover it back up and let it cook for another 20 minutes on HIGH so the gnocchi absorb the sauce’s creaminess and the flavors all harmonize perfectly. If you’d like a thicker sauce, a small cornstarch slurry added here works wonders.

Step 5: Fold in Baby Spinach

Finally, add the vibrant baby spinach and stir gently until it wilts beautifully into the sauce. This adds a fresh pop of green, a subtle earthiness, and a nutritious boost, rounding out the whole dish effortlessly.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken Meatballs With Gnocchi

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan right on top adds a salty, savory flourish that makes each bite irresistible. For an extra touch, a few torn basil leaves scattered over the meatballs add freshness and color that screams rustic Italian charm.

Side Dishes

While this dish is hearty enough on its own, a crisp green salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette pairs beautifully to lighten the meal. Roasted or steamed seasonal vegetables like asparagus or green beans can create a balanced plate bursting with textures and colors.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve this dish family-style straight from the slow cooker placed in the center of the table for a warm and inviting experience that encourages sharing. Alternatively, plate individual portions in shallow bowls with a drizzle of olive oil and a crack of black pepper, giving a restaurant touch right at home.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken Meatballs With Gnocchi keep well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. The flavors actually deepen over time, making it just as delicious the next day.

Freezing

You can freeze portions before adding the cream and gnocchi for best texture results. Store the browned meatballs and sauce separately in freezer-safe containers for up to three months. When ready, thaw and finish cooking with fresh cream and gnocchi added at the end.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally for even warming. If the sauce has thickened too much, add a splash of broth or cream to loosen it up and bring back that silky finish you love.

FAQs

Can I use turkey instead of chicken?

Absolutely! Ground turkey works wonderfully in this recipe and will still produce tender, flavorful meatballs. Just make sure it’s ground turkey breast for a lighter option.

What if I don’t have sun-dried tomato oil?

Olive oil is a fine substitute, though sun-dried tomato oil adds an extra burst of intense tomato flavor that pairs perfectly with the meatballs. You can infuse your own by gently heating olive oil with chopped sun-dried tomatoes for a quick homemade version.

Can I make this recipe on the stovetop instead of a slow cooker?

Yes! Brown the meatballs and then simmer everything gently in a covered pan over low heat. Just be sure to stir occasionally and watch the gnocchi closely so they don’t overcook.

Is there a dairy-free version of this recipe?

To make a dairy-free version, swap out the Parmesan and cream for coconut cream and a dairy-free cheese alternative. The flavor profile will shift slightly but still be delicious and creamy.

Can I use fresh gnocchi instead of packaged?

Fresh gnocchi work perfectly here and may cook even faster during the last slow cooker step, so keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking. They’ll still soak up the sauce beautifully.

Final Thoughts

Slow Cooker Tuscan Chicken Meatballs With Gnocchi is a dish that feels like a home-cooked love letter to anyone lucky enough to taste it. The combination of tender meatballs, rich creamy sauce, and soft gnocchi creates an irresistible harmony that’s so easy to make and impressive to serve. Give this recipe a try—you might just find yourself reaching for it week after week!

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