These ask for more hands-on time than salsa chicken. You'll mix and shape the meatballs yourself, tucking a small cube of mozzarella inside each one.
Prep Time 25 minutesmins
Cook Time 4 hourshrs
Total Time 4 hourshrs25 minutesmins
Servings 4servings
Equipment
6-quart slow cooker
Ingredients
1poundground chicken
1large egg
1/2cupplain panko breadcrumbs
1/3cupgrated Parmesan
1teaspoonItalian seasoning
1/2teaspoongarlic powder
1/4teaspoonsalt
1/4teaspoonblack pepper
3ounceslow-moisture mozzarella, cut into 12 small cubes
1jar marinara sauce, 24 ounces
12ouncesspaghetti, for serving
Fresh basil and extra Parmesan, optional
Instructions
Gently combine the chicken, egg, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stop mixing once everything is incorporated.
Divide into 12 portions. Wrap each around a cube of mozzarella and pinch closed, then gently roll into a ball.
Spread a little marinara in the slow cooker. Arrange the meatballs in one layer and spoon the remaining sauce over them.
Cover and cook on low for about 3–4 hours, until the chicken portion of the meatballs reaches 165°F. Avoid stirring while they cook so they hold their shape.
Cook the spaghetti separately according to its package directions. Serve with the meatballs, sauce, and optional basil and Parmesan.
Notes
Cook: About 3–4 hours on low. Times are estimates; card times use the upper end including finishing time. Check the doneness described in the instructions. Start with thawed meat and poultry.