Introduction:
If you're looking for a meal that combines comfort, flavor, and ease, this Garlic Butter Chicken Balls with Creamy Parmesan Pasta will quickly become a family favorite! Imagine perfectly golden, tender chicken meatballs tossed in a rich, garlicky butter sauce and served on top of luscious, creamy Parmesan pasta. It’s the kind of dish that will make everyone at the dinner table smile, and the best part? It’s simple to make! Whether you're looking to treat yourself on a cozy night in or impress guests at a dinner party, this recipe hits all the right notes with its comforting, savory flavors and creamy texture.
Pro Tip:
For extra flavor and texture, try using fresh, homemade breadcrumbs instead of store-bought ones. Simply pulse a few slices of day-old bread in a food processor. Fresh breadcrumbs make a big difference in the moisture and tenderness of the chicken balls!
Serving Suggestions:
- Pair with Garlic Bread – Serve this dish with crispy, buttery garlic bread for an extra indulgent meal.
- Pair with a Fresh Salad – A simple, crisp salad with arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a balsamic vinaigrette adds a refreshing balance to the rich pasta and chicken balls.
- Wine Pairing – A glass of crisp white wine, like a Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc, complements the creamy Parmesan sauce beautifully.
Variations:
- Gluten-Free Option – Swap the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers for a gluten-free version of this dish.
- Spicy Kick – Add more red pepper flakes or even a few dashes of hot sauce to the garlic butter sauce for extra heat.
- Pasta Swap – While fettuccine is perfect, you can also use spaghetti, penne, or even zoodles (zucchini noodles) for a low-carb option.
- Dairy-Free Version – For a dairy-free version, substitute the cream and Parmesan cheese with coconut milk and dairy-free cheese alternatives.
Equipment Needed:
- Skillet – A large skillet is essential for cooking the chicken balls and the garlic butter sauce, making sure everything cooks evenly and stays flavorful.
- Saucepan – You’ll need a saucepan to make the creamy Parmesan pasta sauce, so everything comes together smoothly.
- Pasta Pot – A large pot for boiling the pasta, which helps you cook it to al dente perfection.
- Mixing Bowl – For combining the ingredients for the chicken balls, ensuring they’re well-mixed for that tender, flavorful bite.
Tips for Success:
- Don’t Overcook the Chicken Balls – Keep an eye on the chicken balls as they cook; overcooking can make them dry. Aim for a nice, golden brown on the outside while keeping them juicy inside.
- Reserve Pasta Water – Always save a little pasta water before draining the pasta. The starchy water helps to thicken the creamy sauce and helps it coat the pasta better.
- Low and Slow for the Sauce – When making the creamy Parmesan sauce, keep the heat low once you add the cream. High heat can cause the cream to separate or curdle.
- Mix Sauce and Pasta Thoroughly – When tossing the pasta with the sauce, make sure each strand is coated, so the creamy flavor is all over.
- Garnish with Extra Parmesan – A generous sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan and parsley on top adds that extra touch of flavor and color.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
This Garlic Butter Chicken Balls with Creamy Parmesan Pasta recipe is everything you could want in a dinner: comforting, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying. The chicken balls are perfectly seasoned, and the creamy Parmesan pasta is rich but balanced. It’s the kind of meal you’ll find yourself making again and again, and it’s sure to be a hit at the dinner table.
Recipe Card:
Ingredients:
For the Chicken Balls:
- 1 lb ground chicken
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Garlic Butter Sauce:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
For the Creamy Parmesan Pasta:
- 12 oz fettuccine or spaghetti
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
- ½ cup reserved pasta water
Instructions:
- Make the Chicken Balls: In a bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well and form into 1-inch balls.
- Cook the Chicken Balls: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken balls and cook until golden brown and fully cooked, about 8-10 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce: In the same skillet, melt butter, then add garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in chopped parsley, then return the chicken balls to the pan, tossing them in the garlic butter sauce.
- Cook the Pasta: Cook pasta according to package instructions. Reserve ½ cup pasta water before draining.
- Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce: In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute. Pour in heavy cream, salt, pepper, and nutmeg, stirring well. Reduce heat to low and stir in Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt into the sauce. Add reserved pasta water gradually until the sauce reaches a creamy consistency.
- Combine: Toss the cooked pasta in the sauce until fully coated.
- Serve: Serve the creamy pasta topped with garlic butter chicken balls and garnish with extra Parmesan and parsley.
Nutrition Table:
(Per Serving, estimated)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 620 kcal |
| Protein | 38g |
| Carbs | 60g |
| Fat | 30g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sugar | 4g |
| Sodium | 800mg |
FAQ:
- Can I prepare the chicken balls ahead of time?
Yes! You can mix and form the chicken balls up to 24 hours in advance. Just cover and refrigerate them until ready to cook. - Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap the fettuccine with spaghetti, penne, or your favorite pasta shape. - How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of milk to loosen up the sauce. - Can I freeze the chicken balls?
Yes! You can freeze the cooked chicken balls for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, simply reheat them in the oven or on the stovetop. - What can I serve with this dish?
For a complete meal, try pairing it with garlic bread, a simple green salad, or even roasted vegetables.
