Garlic Butter Chicken Balls with Creamy Parmesan Pasta: A Comforting and Flavorful Delight

Garlic Butter Chicken Balls with Creamy Parmesan Pasta: A Comforting and Flavorful Delight

If you’re looking for a dish that combines rich flavors, creamy textures, and a touch of indulgence, look no further than Garlic Butter Chicken Balls with Creamy Parmesan Pasta. This recipe is a perfect blend of juicy, garlicky chicken balls and a velvety Parmesan pasta sauce that will leave your taste buds singing. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, a date night, or just craving something comforting, this dish is sure to impress.

In this post, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of making this delicious meal, share tips for perfecting it, and explain why it’s a must-try for any home cook. Plus, we’ve optimized this post for SEO around the keyword “Garlic Butter Chicken Balls with Creamy Parmesan Pasta” to help you find it easily and make it a staple in your recipe collection.


Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  1. Flavor Explosion: The combination of garlic butter, Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning creates a symphony of flavors that’s hard to resist.
  2. Easy to Make: Despite its gourmet appeal, this dish comes together in just 40 minutes.
  3. Versatile: Perfect for weeknight dinners, special occasions, or meal prep.
  4. Crowd-Pleaser: Both kids and adults will love the juicy chicken balls and creamy pasta.
  5. Customizable: Adjust the spice level, swap out ingredients, or add your favorite veggies to make it your own.

Ingredients

For the Garlic Butter Chicken Balls:

  • 1 lb ground chicken: The star of the dish, providing a lean and tender base.
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs: Helps bind the meatballs and adds texture.
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a savory, cheesy flavor.
  • 1 egg: Acts as a binder to hold the meatballs together.
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic is key for that robust flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the savory notes.
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning: Adds a classic herbaceous touch.
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances the flavors.
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle kick.
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): For a hint of heat.
  • 2 tablespoons butter, melted: Adds richness and a buttery finish.
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (for frying): Ensures the meatballs cook evenly and develop a golden crust.

For the Creamy Parmesan Pasta:

  • 12 oz pasta: Fettuccine, spaghetti, or penne work best.
  • 2 tablespoons butter: Forms the base of the creamy sauce.
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the sauce with aromatic flavor.
  • 1 cup heavy cream: Creates the luscious, creamy texture.
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: The star of the sauce, adding depth and richness.
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances the overall flavor.
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle spice.
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): For those who enjoy a little heat.
  • 1/2 cup reserved pasta water: Helps achieve the perfect sauce consistency.
  • Chopped parsley (for garnish): Adds a fresh, vibrant finish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken Balls

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
  2. Mix the ingredients until fully combined, but be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatballs dense.
  3. Form the mixture into 1-inch meatballs. This size ensures they cook evenly and stay juicy.
  4. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  5. Add the chicken balls to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, turning occasionally until they are golden brown and cooked through.
  6. Pour melted butter over the cooked chicken balls and toss to coat evenly. Remove from heat and set aside.

2. Cook the Pasta

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  2. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
  3. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining. This starchy water is essential for creating a smooth, creamy sauce.
  4. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

3. Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce

  1. In the same skillet used for the chicken balls, melt butter over medium heat.
  2. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine.
  4. Add the grated Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
  5. Gradually add the reserved pasta water, a little at a time, to loosen the sauce and achieve the desired consistency.

4. Combine Everything

  1. Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to coat evenly.
  2. Place the garlic butter chicken balls on top of the pasta.
  3. Garnish with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese.
  4. Serve immediately and enjoy!

 The Magic of Garlic Butter Chicken Balls

When it comes to comfort food, few things can beat the combination of juicy chicken balls infused with the rich, savory flavors of garlic and butter. The Garlic Butter Chicken Balls in this recipe are the star of the show, offering a perfect balance of texture and taste. Made with ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and a blend of aromatic spices, these meatballs are tender, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying.

One of the secrets to their deliciousness is the use of fresh garlic. Unlike pre-minced garlic, freshly minced garlic has a more robust and vibrant flavor that truly shines in this dish. Combined with onion powder, Italian seasoning, and a hint of red pepper flakes (if you like a bit of heat), the seasoning blend elevates the chicken balls to a whole new level.

Another key step is browning the chicken balls properly. This not only ensures they are cooked through but also creates a golden, slightly crispy exterior that adds to their texture. Once they’re cooked, a drizzle of melted butter takes them over the top, infusing them with a rich, buttery finish that pairs perfectly with the creamy Parmesan pasta.

These chicken balls are incredibly versatile, too. You can serve them as an appetizer with a dipping sauce, add them to a sandwich, or even enjoy them on their own as a protein-packed snack. But when paired with the creamy Parmesan pasta, they become part of a complete, indulgent meal that’s perfect for any occasion.


The Creamy Parmesan Pasta – A Sauce Worth Celebrating

No pasta dish is complete without a delicious sauce, and the Creamy Parmesan Pasta in this recipe is nothing short of spectacular. Made with just a handful of ingredients – butter, garlic, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese – this sauce is rich, velvety, and packed with flavor.

The process of making the sauce is simple but requires attention to detail. Start by melting butter in a skillet and sautéing minced garlic until it’s fragrant. This step is crucial, as it infuses the butter with the garlic’s aromatic flavor, forming the base of the sauce. Next, heavy cream is added, creating a luscious, smooth texture that’s both comforting and indulgent.

The star of the sauce, however, is the Parmesan cheese. Freshly grated Parmesan melts beautifully into the cream, adding a nutty, savory depth that’s hard to resist. To achieve the perfect consistency, reserved pasta water is gradually added to the sauce. The starchy water helps bind the sauce to the pasta, creating a cohesive and creamy dish that’s neither too thick nor too runny.

This sauce is incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes. Try it with different types of pasta, drizzle it over roasted vegetables, or use it as a dipping sauce for bread. But when paired with the garlic butter chicken balls, it becomes part of a meal that’s truly unforgettable.

 Tips for Customizing and Perfecting the Dish

One of the best things about Garlic Butter Chicken Balls with Creamy Parmesan Pasta is how customizable it is. Whether you want to tweak the flavors, adjust the spice level, or add extra ingredients, this recipe is incredibly forgiving and adaptable.

For those who prefer a milder flavor, simply omit the red pepper flakes in both the chicken balls and the sauce. On the other hand, if you love a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the chicken mixture. You can also experiment with different herbs and spices, such as oregano, thyme, or smoked paprika, to create a unique flavor profile.

If you’re looking to add more vegetables to the dish, consider sautéing spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes and mixing them into the pasta. These additions not only enhance the nutritional value but also add color and texture to the dish.

When it comes to the pasta, feel free to use your favorite type. While fettuccine, spaghetti, and penne work well, you can also try it with farfalle, rigatoni, or even gluten-free pasta for a lighter option.

Finally, don’t forget the importance of presentation. Garnish the dish with freshly chopped parsley, a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, or a drizzle of olive oil to make it look as good as it tastes. With these tips, you can make this recipe your own and enjoy it time and time again.


Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes! Ground turkey or pork can be used as a substitute for ground chicken.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken balls and sauce separately, then combine them when ready to serve.

What can I serve with this dish?
A simple side salad or garlic bread pairs perfectly with this rich and creamy pasta.

How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.


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Garlic Butter Chicken Balls with Creamy Parmesan Pasta: A Comforting and Flavorful Delight

Garlic Butter Chicken Balls with Creamy Parmesan Pasta

Juicy garlic butter chicken balls served over creamy Parmesan pasta make for a rich, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish perfect for any occasion! This recipe is a crowd-pleaser, combining tender chicken balls with a luscious, cheesy pasta sauce.

  • Author: Emma Parker
  • Prep Time: 15minutes
  • Cook Time: 25minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes

Ingredients

Scale

For the Garlic Butter Chicken Balls:

  • 1 lb ground chicken
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 egg
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
  • 2 tablespoons butter, melted
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (for frying)

For the Creamy Parmesan Pasta:

  • 12 oz pasta (fettuccine, spaghetti, or penne work best)
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
  • 1/2 cup reserved pasta water
  • Chopped parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken Balls

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
  2. Mix well until fully combined, then form the mixture into 1-inch meatballs.
  3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  4. Add the chicken balls and cook for 3–4 minutes per side, turning occasionally until golden brown and cooked through.
  5. Pour melted butter over the cooked chicken balls and toss to coat evenly. Remove from heat and set aside.

2. Cook the Pasta

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  2. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
  3. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.

3. Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce

  1. In the same skillet used for the chicken balls, melt butter over medium heat.
  2. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Pour in heavy cream and stir to combine.
  4. Add Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Stir until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
  5. Gradually add the reserved pasta water a little at a time to loosen the sauce.

4. Combine Everything

  1. Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to coat evenly.
  2. Place the garlic butter chicken balls on top of the pasta.
  3. Garnish with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese.
  4. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

  • Use fresh garlic: Freshly minced garlic adds a more robust flavor than pre-minced garlic.
  • Don’t overmix the chicken: Overmixing will make the meatballs dense instead of juicy.
  • Brown the chicken balls properly: This enhances their flavor and gives them a nice texture.
  • Reserve pasta water: This is key to achieving the perfect creamy sauce consistency.
  • Adjust the spice level: If you prefer mild flavors, skip the red pepper flakes.
  • Use freshly grated Parmesan: Pre-shredded cheese doesn’t melt as well and may alter the sauce texture.

Nutrition

  • Calories: 550 kcal per serving
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Fat: 25g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 35g

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Conclusion

Garlic Butter Chicken Balls with Creamy Parmesan Pasta is a dish that’s as comforting as it is delicious. With its juicy chicken balls, rich garlic butter flavor, and creamy Parmesan sauce, it’s a meal that’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Plus, it’s easy to make and customizable to suit your preferences.

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