If you are craving a meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, you’ve got to try this Garlic Butter Chicken Balls with Creamy Parmesan Pasta Recipe. Imagine tender, flavorful chicken balls sizzling in a rich garlic butter sauce paired with silky, luscious Parmesan coated pasta that melts in your mouth. This dish masterfully blends simple ingredients into a comforting classic that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or casual entertaining. Once you dive into the combination of garlic, butter, and creamy Parmesan, you’ll wonder why you haven’t made it sooner!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Garlic Butter Chicken Balls with Creamy Parmesan Pasta Recipe lies in the straightforward ingredients that deliver incredible flavor and texture. Each component plays a role, from the juiciness of the ground chicken to the sharpness of fresh Parmesan and the brightness of parsley, creating a balanced and irresistible dish.
- 1 lb Ground Chicken: The tender, lean base for the chicken balls that keeps them juicy without being greasy.
- 1/4 cup Bread Crumbs: Provides a light binder for the meatballs, helping them hold their shape perfectly.
- 1/4 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese: Adds a nutty, savory depth straight into the meatballs and again in the sauce.
- 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley (chopped): Brings a fresh, herbaceous brightness to cut through the richness.
- 1 Egg: Binds the ingredients for the chicken balls seamlessly.
- 3 cloves Garlic (minced): Essential for that signature bold garlic flavor in both meatballs and sauce.
- Salt & Pepper (to taste): Enhances the natural flavors and balances the dish.
- 1 tbsp Olive Oil (for frying): Helps crisp up the chicken balls beautifully without overpowering flavors.
- 4 tbsp Butter: Creates the indulgent garlic butter sauce coating the chicken balls.
- 3 cloves Garlic (minced): Infuses the butter with aromatic punch.
- 1 tbsp Fresh Parsley (chopped): For garnish and a pop of color in the sauce.
- 1 tbsp Lemon Juice (optional, for a tangy twist): Adds a subtle brightness and balance to the rich butter sauce.
- 8 oz Pasta (any variety, but fettuccine or spaghetti works best): The perfect canvas to soak up the creamy Parmesan sauce.
- 2 tbsp Butter: For enriching the pasta sauce.
- 1/2 cup Heavy Cream: Creates the silky texture of the Parmesan sauce.
- 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese: The star ingredient in the pasta sauce for that ultimate cheesy flavor.
- Salt & Pepper (to taste): To bring the sauce into perfect harmony.
How to Make Garlic Butter Chicken Balls with Creamy Parmesan Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Ball Mixture
Start by combining the ground chicken, bread crumbs, 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan, chopped parsley, one egg, minced garlic, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper in a large bowl. Mix everything gently but thoroughly so all ingredients come together without overworking the meat, which helps keep the meatballs tender.
Step 2: Form the Chicken Balls
Roll the mixture into small, uniform meatballs about 1 inch in diameter. Keeping them small ensures they cook quickly and evenly, resulting in juicy interiors and golden exteriors.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken Balls
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken balls in batches so they have room to crisp up without steaming. Cook them for 8 to 10 minutes, turning occasionally until each is golden brown all around and cooked through. Once ready, transfer them to a plate and set aside.
Step 4: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
In the same skillet, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté just until fragrant—about 1 to 2 minutes. Be careful not to let the garlic burn. Toss the cooked chicken balls back into this aromatic butter, stirring to coat them evenly. For an optional fresh kick, add a tablespoon of lemon juice and sprinkle with chopped parsley. Keep warm while you prepare your pasta.
Step 5: Prepare the Creamy Parmesan Pasta
Cook your choice of pasta according to package instructions until al dente. While the pasta cooks, melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer to thicken slightly. Stir in the remaining 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Drain the pasta and immediately toss it into the creamy Parmesan sauce, stirring well so every strand or piece is luxuriously coated. This creamy pasta serves as the perfect bed for your garlic butter chicken balls.
Step 7: Plate Your Dish
Arrange the creamy Parmesan pasta on plates or a large serving dish, placing the glossy garlic butter chicken balls on top. Drizzle any remaining garlic butter sauce over the top for maximum flavor impact and garnish with extra parsley if desired.
How to Serve Garlic Butter Chicken Balls with Creamy Parmesan Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkling fresh chopped parsley adds a vibrant green color and fresh herbal note that contrasts gorgeously with the creamy sauce. A little lemon zest on top can brighten the dish even more, making it look and taste fresh.
Side Dishes
Pair this dish with a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness. Garlic bread or toasted baguette slices are excellent options too, giving you something crunchy to scoop up every last bit of sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the chicken balls on skewers alongside the pasta for easy grabbing and sharing. Or try stuffing the chicken balls with a little mozzarella cube for a gooey surprise inside that melts during cooking.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store any leftover garlic butter chicken balls and creamy Parmesan pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. It’s a perfect post-work meal that still feels indulgent without any effort.
Freezing
To freeze, place the chicken balls and pasta separately in freezer-safe containers or bags. They will keep well for up to two months. This makes it a great meal prep candidate for busy weeks when you want something homemade but fast.
Reheating
Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to avoid drying out the chicken balls and to keep the creamy sauce smooth. If the pasta sauce thickens too much, add a splash of cream or milk to loosen it up while warming.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a leaner option that will work well in this recipe with similar texture and flavor. Just be mindful to not overcook to keep the meatballs tender.
Can I prepare the chicken balls in advance?
Yes, you can mix and form the chicken balls up to a day ahead and keep them refrigerated. When ready, cook them fresh for the best texture and flavor.
What type of pasta works best?
Fettuccine and spaghetti are ideal as they hold the creamy sauce beautifully, but feel free to use any pasta shape you love. Short pastas like penne also work wonderfully.
Is there a dairy-free version of the sauce?
You can try substituting the butter for a dairy-free margarine and use coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative along with a vegan Parmesan cheese substitute to achieve a similar creamy effect.
How can I make this recipe spicy?
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter sauce or mix some finely chopped chili into the meatball mixture before cooking. It adds a lively kick without overpowering the dish.
Final Thoughts
This Garlic Butter Chicken Balls with Creamy Parmesan Pasta Recipe is one of those dishes you’ll find yourself coming back to again and again. It’s comforting, full of flavor, and surprisingly easy to pull together with simple ingredients. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, it’s guaranteed to impress and satisfy. Give it a try and make some delicious memories around your dinner table!
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Garlic Butter Chicken Balls with Creamy Parmesan Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This Garlic Butter Chicken Balls with Creamy Parmesan Pasta recipe features tender ground chicken meatballs cooked in a flavorful garlic butter sauce, paired with a rich and creamy Parmesan pasta. Perfect for a comforting yet elegant weeknight dinner that comes together quickly with simple ingredients.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Meatballs
- 1 lb Ground Chicken
- 1/4 cup Bread Crumbs
- 1/4 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese
- 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley (chopped)
- 1 egg
- 3 cloves Garlic (minced)
- Salt & Pepper (to taste)
- 1 tbsp Olive Oil (for frying)
For the Garlic Butter Sauce
- 4 tbsp Butter
- 3 cloves Garlic (minced)
- 1 tbsp Fresh Parsley (chopped)
- 1 tbsp Lemon Juice (optional, for a tangy twist)
For the Creamy Parmesan Pasta
- 8 oz Pasta (any variety, but fettuccine or spaghetti works best)
- 2 tbsp Butter
- 1/2 cup Heavy Cream
- 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese
- Salt & Pepper (to taste)
Instructions
- Prepare the meatball mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, bread crumbs, grated Parmesan, chopped parsley, egg, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Form meatballs: Shape the mixture into small 1-inch meatballs and set aside on a plate.
- Cook the meatballs: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs in batches, cooking for about 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally until golden brown and fully cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- Make garlic butter sauce: In the same skillet, add 4 tablespoons of butter and minced garlic. Cook over medium heat until fragrant and the garlic is lightly golden.
- Toss meatballs in sauce: Return the cooked meatballs to the skillet, toss them well in the garlic butter sauce. Add lemon juice if desired and sprinkle with fresh parsley. Keep warm on low heat.
- Cook pasta: Meanwhile, cook pasta in boiling salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare creamy Parmesan sauce: In a separate saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Add Parmesan cheese: Stir in grated Parmesan cheese and mix continuously until the sauce is creamy and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Toss pasta in sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the creamy Parmesan sauce and toss until well coated.
- Serve: Plate the creamy Parmesan pasta and top with the garlic butter chicken balls. Garnish with additional parsley if desired and serve immediately.
Notes
- You can use different types of pasta such as fettuccine, spaghetti, or linguine depending on your preference.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or milk, but the sauce will be less rich.
- Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container up to 3 days and reheat gently on stovetop or microwave.
- Add red pepper flakes to the garlic butter sauce for a spicy kick.
- For gluten-free, replace bread crumbs with gluten-free bread crumbs and use gluten-free pasta.
