Introduction
Garlic Butter Chicken Balls with Creamy Parmesan Pasta is a dish that combines tender, flavorful chicken meatballs with a rich, creamy pasta sauce for the ultimate comfort meal. The garlic butter adds a depth of flavor, while the Parmesan brings a savory, cheesy richness that pairs perfectly with pasta. This recipe is both hearty and elegant, making it suitable for casual dinners or special occasions. The balance of juicy chicken balls and silky pasta makes each bite satisfying, and the aroma of garlic and butter will have everyone eager to dig in.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Balls
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
For the Garlic Butter Sauce
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
For the Creamy Parmesan Pasta
- 8 oz spaghetti or fettuccine
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon butter
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Balls
In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and parsley. Mix gently until all ingredients are just combined, taking care not to overwork the mixture to keep the meatballs tender.
Roll the mixture into evenly sized balls, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Placing them on a baking sheet or plate ensures they are ready to cook without sticking together.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken Balls
Heat a large skillet over medium heat with a light drizzle of olive oil. Arrange the chicken balls in the skillet without overcrowding to allow them to brown evenly. Cook for about 3–4 minutes per side until golden and cooked through, with an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Transfer the cooked chicken balls to a plate and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. If desired, sprinkle in red pepper flakes for a subtle heat. Pour in chicken broth and let the mixture simmer for 2–3 minutes to blend the flavors. Return the chicken balls to the skillet, coating them in the sauce and allowing them to absorb the flavors. Sprinkle with fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
Step 4: Cook the Pasta
While the chicken balls are cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining, which can help adjust the sauce later.
Step 5: Prepare the Creamy Parmesan Sauce
In a separate saucepan over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Pour in heavy cream, season with salt and pepper, and bring to a gentle simmer. Whisk in Parmesan cheese until smooth and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water until it reaches the desired consistency. Toss the cooked pasta in the sauce until fully coated.
Step 6: Assemble the Dish
Divide the creamy Parmesan pasta among serving plates. Top each portion with several garlic butter chicken balls. Drizzle extra garlic butter sauce from the skillet over the chicken and pasta for maximum flavor. Garnish with additional parsley and Parmesan if desired.
Cooking Tips
- Use fresh Parmesan for the best flavor and texture in both the chicken balls and the pasta sauce.
- Avoid overmixing the chicken mixture to keep the meatballs tender.
- Browning the chicken balls before adding them to the sauce creates a flavorful crust.
- If you like extra saucy pasta, increase the cream and cheese slightly for a richer coating.
Variations
- Lemon Garlic Version: Add lemon zest and juice to the garlic butter sauce for a bright, fresh twist.
- Herb Lovers: Increase parsley or add fresh basil and thyme for more herbal notes.
- Cheesy Surprise: Place a small cube of mozzarella in the center of each chicken ball for a gooey, cheesy middle.
- Low-Carb Option: Replace the pasta with zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash.
Storage and Reheating
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of cream or broth to prevent drying.
- Freeze chicken balls separately before adding sauce for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?
Yes, ground turkey works well, though it may have a slightly different flavor.
Can I bake the chicken balls?
Yes, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 18–20 minutes or until cooked through.
What pasta works best with this recipe?
Fettuccine and spaghetti are great options, but penne or rigatoni can hold more sauce.
How do I prevent the pasta sauce from clumping?
Use freshly grated Parmesan and whisk continuously until smooth.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the chicken balls and sauce separately, then combine and heat before serving.
Is there a lighter version of the sauce?
Swap heavy cream for half-and-half, but expect a slightly thinner sauce.
Conclusion
Garlic Butter Chicken Balls with Creamy Parmesan Pasta is a dish that’s both indulgent and easy to prepare. The tender chicken balls, bursting with flavor from garlic, Parmesan, and herbs, pair beautifully with the silky, cheesy pasta. The garlic butter sauce elevates the entire dish, making it irresistible for both weeknight dinners and special gatherings. With simple ingredients and a straightforward process, this recipe delivers a restaurant-quality meal that’s sure to impress every time.