There’s something about a hearty, creamy pasta dish paired with perfectly seasoned chicken that just hits the spot every single time. If you’re in the mood for a comforting dinner that will satisfy your taste buds and fill your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas, then you’ve stumbled upon the right recipe.
Garlic Butter Chicken Balls with Creamy Parmesan Pasta is everything you could want in a meal—rich, savory, creamy, and just a little bit indulgent. The juicy garlic butter chicken balls are golden brown and flavorful, and they pair perfectly with smooth, velvety pasta coated in a rich Parmesan sauce. Trust me, this dish is a total crowd-pleaser that will have your family coming back for seconds (or thirds!).
I first tried making these chicken balls during a cozy Sunday dinner with my family, and it quickly became a favorite. The combination of garlicky chicken balls and creamy Parmesan pasta is an irresistible combo that never disappoints. It’s one of those meals that feels indulgent but isn’t too complicated to make. Plus, you can customize the pasta to your liking—whether you want spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne, it will work beautifully with this dish.
Let’s dive into the steps to make this comforting masterpiece from start to finish!
Ingredients You’ll Need
(Serves 4-6)
For the Chicken Balls:
1 lb ground chicken
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
1 egg
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons butter (for cooking)
For the Creamy Parmesan Pasta:
12 oz pasta (spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne)
2 tablespoons butter
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Make the Chicken Balls
Start by gathering all of your ingredients for the chicken balls. In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything together thoroughly until well combined. You want the mixture to be sticky but not too wet, so make sure it holds its shape when you form the balls.
Now, it’s time to shape the chicken mixture into small, 1-inch balls. This can get a little messy, but that’s part of the fun! I like to use a spoon to scoop the mixture and then roll it between my hands to form neat little balls. Don’t worry if they’re not perfect—just try to make them all roughly the same size so they cook evenly.
2. Cook the Chicken Balls
Once your chicken balls are ready, grab a large skillet and heat the butter over medium heat. When the butter is melted and bubbling, carefully add the chicken balls to the skillet. Cook them for about 8-10 minutes, turning them occasionally to ensure they’re golden brown all over. You’ll know they’re done when they’ve reached an internal temperature of 165°F/74°C, and they should be cooked through with a slightly crispy exterior.
Be patient as the chicken balls cook—don’t rush the process. Turning them gently helps prevent them from falling apart. Once they’re golden and cooked to perfection, remove them from the skillet and set them aside. Keep that skillet handy because you’ll need it for the creamy Parmesan sauce in just a bit!
3. Cook the Pasta
While the chicken balls are cooking, you can prep your pasta. Boil a pot of salted water and cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Once the pasta is al dente, drain it and set it aside. It’s always a good idea to save a bit of pasta water just in case you need to thin out the sauce later.
You’re almost ready to bring everything together, so just take a moment to admire how everything is coming together so far. Those golden, savory chicken balls are already giving you a taste of how amazing this dish will be!
The Creamy Parmesan Sauce and Bringing it All Together
Now that you’ve got the chicken balls cooked and the pasta ready, it’s time to make the sauce that will take this dish from delicious to absolutely heavenly. The creamy Parmesan sauce is rich, smooth, and packed with garlic flavor. It perfectly coats the pasta and pairs beautifully with the juicy chicken balls. Trust me, you’ll want to make extra sauce because it’s just that good.
This step is quick and simple, and the best part is that you’re using the same skillet where you cooked the chicken balls, so all those flavorful bits left behind are going to be incorporated into the sauce. Let’s get started!
4. Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce
In the same skillet you used to cook the chicken balls, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. The beauty of using the same skillet is that the butter will pick up all the little browned bits from the chicken, adding even more flavor to the sauce.
Once the butter is melted and sizzling, add in the minced garlic. Cook it for about 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, until the garlic becomes fragrant and golden. Don’t let it burn, though, because garlic can turn bitter very quickly. At this point, your kitchen will already start to smell like heaven!
Next, pour in the heavy cream. Bring the cream to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally. The heavy cream will help form the luscious base of the sauce, so don’t rush this part—let it bubble and thicken a bit. After a few minutes, once the sauce has started to thicken up, add in the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese melts completely, and the sauce becomes silky smooth.
Now, add the salt and black pepper to taste. I usually give it a little taste test at this point and add a pinch more Parmesan or seasoning if needed, but that’s the beauty of cooking—it’s all about your personal preferences.
5. Combine and Serve
This is where the magic happens. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the creamy Parmesan sauce, tossing it gently to coat the pasta evenly. Be sure to let the pasta soak up all that creamy goodness. Then, carefully add the chicken balls back into the skillet and toss them in as well, ensuring each ball is nestled in that rich, cheesy sauce.
At this point, everything should be coated in a beautiful, glossy sauce. The pasta should be tender and the chicken balls should be warm and juicy. If the sauce feels a little thick, don’t hesitate to add a splash of pasta water to loosen it up. This will help the sauce cling to the pasta just a little bit better.
Once everything is perfectly combined, it’s time to plate! Garnish the dish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and a fresh herbal note that balances out the richness of the dish. Serve immediately while it’s still warm and inviting.
A Few Helpful Tips
Before we wrap up Part 2, here are a few quick tips for making this dish even better:
Pasta Variations: I love using spaghetti for this dish, but fettuccine or penne would work wonderfully too. Choose whatever pasta shape you love most, or what you have on hand!
Chicken Ball Size: If you prefer smaller or larger chicken balls, feel free to adjust the size. Just remember that the cooking time may change slightly depending on the size of the balls, so be sure to check their internal temperature.
Extra Creamy: If you’re a fan of extra creamy pasta, feel free to add more heavy cream and Parmesan to the sauce. The sauce can be made to your liking—thicker or lighter, depending on your preference.
Cheese Lovers: If you’re like me and can’t get enough of Parmesan, sprinkle extra cheese on top just before serving for an even cheesier finish.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Let’s take a moment to answer some common questions about this dish. Whether you’re wondering about substitutions or how to store leftovers, I’ve got you covered with a few helpful tips and tricks.
1. Can I use ground turkey instead of ground chicken for the meatballs?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute for ground chicken. It will have a slightly different flavor and texture, but it will still work wonderfully in this recipe. Just keep in mind that turkey can sometimes be a bit drier than chicken, so you may want to ensure that your meatballs are cooked through but not overdone. You can also add a little extra moisture by adding a touch more butter or cream to the sauce.
2. Can I make the chicken balls ahead of time?
Yes! You can make the chicken balls a day or two in advance. After shaping the balls, place them on a baking sheet and cover them with plastic wrap. Store them in the fridge until you’re ready to cook them. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to marinate together, making the chicken balls even more flavorful when you cook them.
3. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Of course! This recipe is very versatile when it comes to pasta. You can use spaghetti, fettuccine, penne, or any pasta you have on hand. The creamy Parmesan sauce will work beautifully with any shape of pasta. Just be sure to cook the pasta al dente for the best texture.
4. How do I reheat leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, I recommend doing so on the stovetop over low heat. Add a splash of milk or extra cream to loosen up the sauce, as it may thicken up in the fridge. Gently stir until everything is heated through and the sauce is nice and creamy again.
5. Can I freeze the chicken balls or pasta?
Yes, you can freeze both the chicken balls and the pasta. To freeze the chicken balls, cook them completely, then let them cool down. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze them until solid, and then transfer them to a freezer bag or container. They’ll stay good for up to 3 months. For the pasta, it’s best to freeze it separately from the sauce to avoid the pasta becoming too mushy. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat everything in the microwave or on the stove.
6. What can I serve with this dish?
This dish is pretty hearty on its own, but if you’re looking for something to serve alongside it, a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette would be the perfect complement. You could also serve some garlic bread to soak up all that creamy sauce—yum!
7. Can I make the sauce without heavy cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter version of the sauce, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or even whole milk. Keep in mind that the sauce won’t be quite as rich, but it will still have a nice creamy texture. If you prefer a dairy-free option, you can use coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative, though it will slightly alter the flavor.
Conclusion: A Comforting Meal for Any Occasion
Garlic Butter Chicken Balls with Creamy Parmesan Pasta is one of those dishes that checks all the boxes—easy to make, full of flavor, and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or serving it to guests, it’s sure to impress everyone at the table. The crispy, golden chicken balls are the perfect match for the velvety Parmesan pasta, and when combined with the rich, garlicky sauce, you’ve got a meal that will keep everyone coming back for more.
I love how this dish is both comforting and versatile. It’s the kind of meal that’s perfect for a cozy night in, but fancy enough to serve on special occasions. Plus, it’s simple enough that even the busiest weeknight can be brightened by its creamy goodness.
So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and give this recipe a try. Let me know how it turns out in the comments below, and feel free to share any creative twists you’ve made. I can’t wait to hear how you make this dish your own!
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Garlic Butter Chicken Balls with Creamy Parmesan Pasta
Description
This dish is the ultimate comfort food, combining juicy garlic butter chicken balls with a rich, creamy Parmesan pasta. The chicken balls are perfectly seasoned and cooked until golden brown, then tossed with smooth, velvety pasta in a garlicky, Parmesan sauce. It’s a hearty, flavorful meal that will satisfy all your cravings!
Ingredients
For the Chicken Balls:
1 lb ground chicken
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
1 egg
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons butter (for cooking)
For the Creamy Parmesan Pasta:
12 oz pasta (spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne)
2 tablespoons butter
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Make the Chicken Balls
In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined, then shape the mixture into 1-inch balls.
Cook the Chicken Balls
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chicken balls and cook for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C). Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Cook the Pasta
Cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Combine and Serve
Add the cooked pasta and chicken balls to the skillet, tossing gently to coat everything in the creamy Parmesan sauce. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately while it’s warm and comforting.
Notes
Garlic Butter Chicken Balls with Creamy Parmesan Pasta is the perfect blend of savory, creamy, and comforting flavors. The chicken balls are rich and juicy, with a subtle smokiness from the paprika and a slight kick from the garlic. The creamy Parmesan pasta serves as a silky base that complements the chicken perfectly. You can customize the pasta to your liking, using spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne, and top with extra Parmesan for an even cheesier finish. Serve this dish for a family dinner, or when you’re craving a rich, satisfying meal with all the right flavors!
