slow cooker tuscan chicken meatballs with gnocchi
A hearty and comforting dish combining tender chicken meatballs, creamy tomato sauce, and fluffy gnocchi, perfect for a family dinner.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground chicken1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 package (16 oz) gnocchi
- 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, sliced
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Instructions
- 1. In a large bowl, mix together ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, egg, chopped parsley, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until well combined.2. Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.3. In a skillet over medium heat, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Sear the meatballs until browned on all sides, about 2-3 minutes per side. Transfer to the slow cooker.4. In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Sauté the chopped onion until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.5. Transfer the sautéed onions and garlic to the slow cooker. Add crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, heavy cream, dried basil, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes. Stir to combine.6. Place the seared meatballs into the sauce, ensuring they are mostly submerged. Cover and cook on Low for 6-7 hours or on High for 3-4 hours, until the meatballs are cooked through and tender.7. About 30 minutes before serving, add the gnocchi to the slow cooker. Stir gently to combine.8. Add the chopped spinach and sun-dried tomatoes. Continue to cook until the gnocchi are tender and the spinach is wilted, about 20-30 minutes.9. Serve the Tuscan chicken meatballs and gnocchi hot, garnished with fresh basil or parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if desired.