Garlic Butter Chicken Balls with Creamy Parmesan Pasta

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If you’re looking for the kind of meal that feels indulgent yet comforting, this is it. I made these garlic butter chicken balls with creamy parmesan pasta one evening when I needed something hearty but not too complicated. The result was a dish that had everyone scraping their plates.

The chicken balls are seared to golden perfection, then coated in a rich garlic butter that melts into the creamy parmesan pasta. There’s something magical about the way the cheese sauce clings to the noodles and wraps around those tender, juicy meatballs. Every bite is creamy, savory, and deeply satisfying.

What I love about this dish is that it looks impressive, but it’s actually quite simple to make. It’s one of those recipes you can whip up for a family dinner, yet also serve at a gathering and get showered with compliments. Trust me, people will ask for the recipe.

Why You’ll Love This Garlic Butter Chicken Balls with Creamy Parmesan Pasta

This recipe is perfect when you want a comforting pasta dish that goes beyond the usual spaghetti and meatballs. The chicken balls are juicy and flavorful, infused with garlic and herbs, while the parmesan sauce is rich, creamy, and just garlicky enough to make you want seconds.

It’s great for both kids and adults. You can serve it as a weekday dinner or bring it to your next potluck. And since everything comes together in under an hour, it’s also ideal for busy nights when you still want something homemade and satisfying.

Ingredients

Ground chicken brings a light and tender base for our chicken balls. It’s lean but still full of flavor when seasoned properly.

Garlic cloves are essential for that deep, savory base. They infuse both the chicken balls and the butter sauce with richness.

Parmesan cheese adds that signature nutty saltiness that melts beautifully into the cream, giving our pasta a silky, cheesy finish.

Heavy cream helps create the luscious sauce that binds the pasta and meatballs into one creamy, delicious bite.

Butter gives the garlic sauce its unmistakable richness, while helping the chicken balls sear into golden nuggets of flavor.

Pasta — spaghetti or linguine works best to soak up every drop of that creamy garlic parmesan sauce.

Parsley adds a pop of color and freshness, cutting through the richness of the dish just perfectly.

Salt and black pepper are the essential basics that enhance all the other flavors.

How to Make Garlic Butter Chicken Balls with Creamy Parmesan Pasta

Step 1: Make the Chicken Mixture

In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and a bit of grated parmesan. Mix just until combined — overmixing can make the texture tough.

Step 2: Shape and Sear the Chicken Balls

Form the mixture into small, even balls, about 1-inch in size. Heat a large skillet with a touch of oil and sear the chicken balls for about 6 to 8 minutes, turning occasionally until golden on all sides and cooked through. Set them aside once done.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook your pasta until al dente according to package instructions. Reserve a bit of the pasta water before draining.

Step 4: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

In the same skillet you used for the chicken balls, melt butter and add more minced garlic. Let it gently sizzle until fragrant. Pour in heavy cream and let it simmer for 5 to 7 minutes until slightly thickened. Stir in grated parmesan and keep stirring until smooth and creamy.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Add the cooked pasta into the sauce, along with a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen things up. Toss well to coat every strand. Return the chicken balls to the pan and spoon some sauce over them.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle chopped parsley over the top, add a little extra parmesan if you like, and serve immediately while it’s warm and creamy.

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

If you’re looking to switch things up, ground turkey works wonderfully in place of chicken. It has a similar lean quality and soaks up flavors beautifully. For a dairy-free version, use coconut cream and nutritional yeast instead of heavy cream and parmesan—you’ll still get that rich, creamy texture with a bit of a nutty twist.

You can also throw in chopped spinach or sun-dried tomatoes into the sauce for a touch of color and extra flavor. If you love heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce adds a nice kick to balance out the creaminess.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

This pasta dish is rich and filling, so pair it with something light and fresh. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette is the perfect contrast. For a more complete dinner, add garlic bread or a roasted veggie side like asparagus or broccoli.

For drinks, a glass of chilled white wine such as Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio works beautifully. If you’re going alcohol-free, lemon-infused sparkling water is just the thing to brighten the meal.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of milk or cream to the pasta before microwaving to bring back that creamy texture. You can also reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat, stirring until warmed through.

The chicken balls can also be frozen separately for up to 2 months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in a skillet or oven.

FAQs

How do I keep garlic butter chicken balls with creamy parmesan pasta from drying out?

The key is not overcooking the chicken balls and adding a splash of pasta water or cream when reheating. This keeps everything moist and saucy.

Can I make garlic butter chicken balls with creamy parmesan pasta ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the chicken balls a day in advance and store them in the fridge. Just cook the pasta and sauce fresh for best results.

Is garlic butter chicken balls with creamy parmesan pasta kid-friendly?

Absolutely. Kids love the creamy cheese sauce and bite-sized meatballs. You can reduce the garlic or spice if needed.

What’s the best pasta to use in garlic butter chicken balls with creamy parmesan pasta?

Spaghetti and linguine are top picks, but fettuccine or even penne work well. Just choose one that holds onto the sauce nicely.

Can I bake the chicken balls instead of frying?

Yes, you can bake them at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes or until golden and cooked through. Flip halfway for even browning.

Related Recipe You’ll Like

If you’re into rich, creamy pasta dishes like this, don’t miss out on this Easy Creamy Polenta Shrimp Recipe for a Southern twist on decadence. Or check out Delicious Garlic Sausage Alfredo Rigatoni if you’re craving another garlic-forward, creamy comfort dish. Want more pasta goodness? Quick Creamy Cajun Pasta is another must-try.

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