If you’re looking for a comforting, mouthwatering meal that’s sure to satisfy your hunger and impress your guests, look no further than these Garlic Butter Chicken Balls with Creamy Parmesan Pasta. This dish is the ultimate comfort food—perfectly seasoned chicken meatballs fried to golden perfection, nestled on a bed of creamy, rich pasta that’s bursting with Parmesan goodness. It’s a winning combination of flavors and textures that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
I first made this recipe on a busy weeknight when I wanted something filling, flavorful, and easy to prepare. It’s one of those meals that feels like you spent hours in the kitchen, but in reality, it comes together in no time. The garlic butter chicken balls are incredibly tender and flavorful, while the creamy Parmesan pasta brings everything together in a rich and indulgent way. It’s truly a dish that delivers both on taste and convenience.
Let’s dive into how you can recreate this irresistible dish in your own kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Before we get cooking, let’s gather the ingredients you’ll need for this flavorful dish. The ingredients are simple but come together in the most delicious way. Here’s a quick rundown of what you’ll need to make both the chicken balls and the creamy Parmesan pasta:
For the chicken balls:
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 tbsp chopped parsley
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for frying)
For the creamy Parmesan pasta:
- 8 oz pasta (your choice, such as fettuccine or spaghetti)
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp chopped parsley (for garnish)
With just a few staple ingredients, you can whip up a hearty, flavorful meal that’s both comforting and satisfying. You’ll notice that the chicken balls are full of savory flavors, thanks to the combination of garlic, Parmesan cheese, and herbs. The creamy Parmesan pasta, on the other hand, adds a velvety richness to the dish that perfectly complements the chicken.
Step 1: Make the Garlic Butter Chicken Balls
The first step in this dish is making the garlic butter chicken balls. These little bites of chicken goodness are packed with flavor and texture, thanks to the breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese, which help keep the meatballs tender and juicy.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken with the minced garlic, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, chopped parsley, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Take your time mixing the ingredients until everything is evenly combined. It’s important to mix everything well to ensure the flavors are distributed throughout the chicken mixture.
Once the mixture is ready, use your hands to shape the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. This size is perfect for cooking evenly and getting that crispy, golden exterior. If you prefer slightly larger or smaller chicken balls, feel free to adjust the size to your liking.
Step 2: Fry the Chicken Balls
Next, heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. The oil should be hot enough to fry the chicken balls, creating a crispy, golden crust on the outside while keeping them juicy on the inside.
Carefully add the chicken balls to the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. You may need to cook them in batches, depending on the size of your skillet. Fry the chicken balls, turning occasionally, for about 8-10 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. You can check for doneness by cutting one of the chicken balls in half to ensure the meat is fully cooked.
Once the chicken balls are done, remove them from the skillet and set them aside on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. The crispy, golden chicken balls will be the perfect topping for your creamy Parmesan pasta!
Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Parmesan Pasta
While the chicken balls are frying, you can begin preparing the creamy Parmesan pasta. Start by cooking the pasta of your choice according to the package instructions. I recommend using fettuccine or spaghetti for this dish, but you can choose any pasta that you prefer. Once the pasta is cooked, drain it and set it aside, reserving a little bit of pasta water for later in case you need to adjust the consistency of the sauce.
In the same skillet you used to cook the chicken balls (no need to clean it, as it’ll add flavor to the sauce), melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic—its aroma should be sweet and savory, not bitter.
Next, add the heavy cream to the skillet and bring it to a simmer. Let the cream cook for about 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly. This is when the magic happens—the cream transforms into a luscious sauce that will coat the pasta beautifully.
Finishing the Dish and Tips for Perfection
Now that the garlic butter chicken balls and creamy Parmesan pasta are on their way to coming together, let’s finish this dish off right and add a few finishing touches that will make it extra delicious. Plus, I’ll share a few tips along the way to ensure your Garlic Butter Chicken Balls with Creamy Parmesan Pasta turns out perfectly.
Step 4: Stir in the Parmesan Cheese and Season
Once your cream has thickened and is simmering gently, it’s time to stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. This is the moment when the sauce becomes truly rich and creamy. Stir in the cheese, allowing it to melt into the cream. The sauce should thicken beautifully, becoming velvety and smooth.
Taste your sauce at this point and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Parmesan is naturally salty, but you may want to add just a pinch more depending on your preference.
Let the sauce continue to cook for another 1-2 minutes to allow everything to meld together perfectly. This will make sure the Parmesan is fully incorporated, giving the sauce a luscious, creamy texture.
Step 5: Combine the Pasta and Sauce
Now, it’s time to add your cooked pasta to the skillet with the creamy Parmesan sauce. Gently toss the pasta in the sauce, making sure each noodle is generously coated. If you find that the sauce is too thick, you can add a splash of the reserved pasta water to thin it out slightly. The starchy pasta water will also help the sauce stick to the pasta, making the dish even creamier.
Take your time here, gently stirring to ensure every bite of pasta is drenched in that creamy, cheesy sauce. This is the part where the magic happens—the perfect blend of richness and flavor that pairs so beautifully with the crispy garlic butter chicken balls.
Step 6: Serve and Top with Chicken Balls
Once the pasta is well-coated in the creamy sauce, it’s time to plate up! Serve the creamy Parmesan pasta on your plates, making sure to pile it high with all that glorious, cheesy goodness.
Now, take your crispy garlic butter chicken balls and place them right on top of the pasta. The chicken balls should be golden brown and perfectly cooked, with their savory garlic flavor balancing out the richness of the creamy sauce. These tender, flavorful chicken balls are what really elevate this dish and make it feel like a complete meal.
Step 7: Garnish and Final Touches
For the final touch, garnish the dish with freshly chopped parsley. The parsley adds a burst of color and a hint of freshness, which cuts through the richness of the pasta and complements the savory flavors of the chicken. If you’re a cheese lover, don’t hesitate to sprinkle a little extra Parmesan cheese over the top for added flavor.
Your Garlic Butter Chicken Balls with Creamy Parmesan Pasta is now ready to serve! The combination of crispy, golden chicken balls, smooth, cheesy pasta, and aromatic garlic will make this a dish your family and guests will love.
Tips for the Perfect Garlic Butter Chicken Balls with Creamy Parmesan Pasta:
1. Don’t Overcook the Chicken Balls
Be sure not to overcook the chicken balls. They should be golden brown on the outside and cooked through on the inside, but still juicy. Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer if needed—it should reach 165°F. Overcooking can result in dry chicken balls, so be mindful of the cooking time.
2. Use Freshly Grated Parmesan
For the best flavor and texture, always use freshly grated Parmesan cheese rather than pre-grated. Fresh Parmesan will melt better into the sauce and give it a richer, more authentic taste. If you can, use a block of Parmesan and grate it yourself.
3. Customize Your Pasta
This recipe works well with almost any type of pasta. While fettuccine or spaghetti are great options, you can easily switch it up with penne, rigatoni, or even gnocchi for a different texture. Just make sure to cook the pasta according to the package instructions, and don’t forget to reserve a little pasta water for the sauce.
4. Make It Lighter
If you’re looking for a lighter version, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or a lighter cream, though the sauce may not be quite as rich. You can also use ground turkey or chicken breast for the chicken balls if you want a leaner option.
5. Add Extra Veggies
While this dish is already packed with flavor, you can make it even heartier by adding sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini to the pasta. These vegetables will complement the creamy sauce and add some freshness to balance out the richness of the dish.
With these tips in mind, your Garlic Butter Chicken Balls with Creamy Parmesan Pasta is sure to be a hit every time you make it. It’s a perfect dinner for a cozy night at home or a dish that will impress your guests at a dinner party. The combination of savory, tender chicken balls and rich, creamy pasta is simply irresistible!
FAQ Section and Conclusion:
Now that you’ve successfully created this delicious Garlic Butter Chicken Balls with Creamy Parmesan Pasta, let’s address some frequently asked questions to help you refine your cooking technique and make sure every bite is as perfect as possible. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned cook, these answers will provide helpful tips and troubleshooting advice.
1. Can I make the chicken balls ahead of time?
Yes, you can! The chicken balls can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before frying. Simply shape the mixture into balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover them with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When you’re ready to cook, fry them as directed. This is a great time-saver if you’re preparing for a busy weeknight or hosting a dinner party.
2. Can I bake the chicken balls instead of frying them?
If you prefer a healthier version of this dish, you can bake the chicken balls instead of frying them. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), place the chicken balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are cooked through and golden brown. While the texture may be slightly different than frying, the baked version is still delicious and much lighter.
3. Can I use a different type of pasta for this dish?
Absolutely! While fettuccine or spaghetti are excellent choices, you can swap in any pasta you like. Penne, rigatoni, or even linguine would work beautifully with the creamy Parmesan sauce. The key is to use a pasta that will hold the sauce well, so a thicker pasta like penne might be a particularly great choice. Just remember to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you choose.
4. Can I make the creamy Parmesan sauce dairy-free?
Yes, you can make this dish dairy-free with a few adjustments. For the creamy sauce, swap out the heavy cream for a dairy-free alternative, such as coconut cream or almond milk. You can also use a dairy-free Parmesan substitute or nutritional yeast to replicate the cheesy flavor. Keep in mind that the texture may change slightly, but the dish will still be flavorful and creamy.
5. How do I store leftovers?
If you happen to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the pasta and chicken balls in a skillet over low heat, adding a little milk or cream to restore the sauce’s creamy consistency. If you prefer, you can also reheat the dish in the microwave, though the texture may not be quite as smooth as when it’s freshly made.
6. Can I freeze this dish?
While the creamy Parmesan pasta and chicken balls are best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the chicken balls separately if you need to make them ahead of time. Once cooked, let them cool completely, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, reheat them in the oven or microwave. However, the pasta sauce may not freeze as well, so it’s best to make that fresh when you’re ready to serve.
Conclusion:
And there you have it—your very own Garlic Butter Chicken Balls with Creamy Parmesan Pasta! This dish is a true crowd-pleaser, combining the savory goodness of garlic butter chicken balls with the rich, creamy Parmesan pasta that everyone loves. It’s the perfect balance of flavor and texture, offering the right amount of indulgence without being overly complicated to make.
Whether you’re looking to impress guests at a dinner party or simply enjoy a comforting meal at home, this dish has you covered. The garlic butter chicken balls are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, while the creamy Parmesan pasta adds the perfect finishing touch. The combination is nothing short of irresistible.
With a few simple tips and techniques, you can easily elevate this recipe and make it your own. Whether you stick to the classic or make adjustments to suit your dietary preferences, the result will always be a comforting, delicious meal that’s sure to become a favorite in your household.
So, grab your ingredients, get cooking, and enjoy this delectable, creamy, and flavorful dish. I hope you find as much joy in making and sharing it as I did. Happy cooking, and may your Garlic Butter Chicken Balls with Creamy Parmesan Pasta always turn out perfectly!
Description
A delightful twist on classic Alfredo, these tender garlic-butter chicken meatballs are nestled atop a luxuriously creamy Parmesan pasta. Perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining—your family and friends will be asking for seconds!
For the Chicken Balls
1 lb (450 g) ground chicken
⅓ cup (35 g) fine breadcrumbs
2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp onion powder
1 large egg, lightly beaten
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
1 tbsp olive oil (for frying)
For the Garlic Butter Sauce
For the Creamy Parmesan Pasta
12 oz (340 g) fettuccine or linguine
Water and 1 tbsp salt (for boiling)
1 ½ cups (360 ml) heavy cream
1½ cups (150 g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese
½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
Salt, to taste
2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
1️⃣ Cook the pasta
: In a large pot, bring generously salted water to a rolling boil. Add the fettuccine and cook until just al dente (usually 1–2 minutes less than package directions). Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain and set aside.
2️⃣ Make the chicken balls
: In a medium bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, minced garlic, onion powder, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined—avoid overworking. Form into 16–18 uniform balls (about 1½ tbsp each).
3️⃣ Brown the chicken balls
: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken balls in a single layer (do this in batches if needed) and cook, turning occasionally, until golden-brown all over and cooked through, about 8–10 minutes. Transfer to a plate and tent with foil to keep warm.
4️⃣ Prepare the garlic butter sauce
: In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic, thyme, and red pepper flakes. Sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute, being careful not to burn the garlic.
5️⃣ Build the creamy Parmesan sauce
: Pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly. Bring to a gentle simmer, then whisk in the grated Parmesan until melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with black pepper and a pinch of salt, to taste. If the sauce seems too thick, whisk in reserved pasta water a splash at a time until desired consistency.
6️⃣ Combine pasta and sauce
: Add the drained pasta to the skillet. Toss thoroughly to coat every strand in the creamy sauce.
7️⃣ Plate and finish
: Divide the sauced pasta among 4 plates or shallow bowls. Top each with 4–5 garlic butter chicken balls. Garnish with chopped parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan, if desired. Serve immediately.
Notes
Make-ahead: The chicken mixture can be shaped into balls and refrigerated (covered) for up to 24 hours.
Crispier meatballs: For extra crunch, after browning in the skillet, transfer chicken balls to a 375 °F (190 °C) oven for 5 minutes.
Lightened-up version: Swap half the heavy cream for whole milk, and use turkey or chicken breast mince.
Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and your favorite GF pasta.
Storage & reheating: Store leftover meatballs and pasta separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of cream or milk.
- Prep Time: 20 min
- Cook Time: 25 min