Slow Cooker Chicken Apple Butter Meatballs



 Tender chicken meatballs glazed in a sweet and tangy apple butter sauce — perfect for appetizers, party snacks, or a comforting dinner. Slow cooker magic makes them melt-in-your-mouth delicious!

Ingredients (Serves 6–8)

For the meatballs:

  • 1 lb ground chicken

  • ½ cup bread crumbs

  • 1 egg

  • ¼ cup grated onion

  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder

  • ½ teaspoon salt

  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper

  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

For the apple butter sauce:

  • ½ cup apple butter

  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar

  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

  • ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon

  • ¼ teaspoon ground cloves

  • ¼ teaspoon salt

  • Optional: pinch of cayenne pepper for a mild kick

Instructions

  1. Prepare meatballs:
    In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, bread crumbs, egg, grated onion, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and parsley. Mix until just combined.
    Shape into 1–1.5 inch meatballs and place them on a plate or baking sheet.

  2. Make the sauce:
    In a medium bowl, whisk together apple butter, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, cinnamon, cloves, salt, and cayenne pepper (if using).

  3. Add to slow cooker:
    Lightly spray the slow cooker with cooking spray. Place the meatballs inside and pour the apple butter sauce over them, making sure each meatball is coated.

  4. Cook:
    Cover and cook on Low for 4 hours or High for 2 hours, until meatballs are cooked through and tender.

  5. Serve:
    Transfer meatballs to a serving dish and spoon extra sauce over the top. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve as an appetizer, over rice, or with roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Tips & Variations

  • Make ahead: Assemble meatballs and sauce in the slow cooker insert, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Cook the next day.

  • Extra flavor: Sauté the meatballs briefly in a skillet before adding to the slow cooker for a golden crust.

  • Gluten-free: Use gluten-free bread crumbs or crushed crackers.

  • Spicy option: Add ½ teaspoon ground ginger or red pepper flakes for extra warmth.

  • Serving ideas: These pair beautifully with mashed potatoes, buttered noodles, or roasted root vegetables.

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