Garlic Butter Chicken Balls with Creamy Parmesan Pasta

Okay, get ready for a dish that’s going to knock your socks off! Garlic Butter Chicken Balls with Creamy Parmesan Pasta is the ultimate comfort food that feels just a little bit fancy, without being a hassle to make. Picture it: tender, flavorful chicken balls cooked in a rich garlic butter sauce, paired with a creamy, cheesy pasta that’s so good you’ll want to lick your plate clean. Trust me, this one is a keeper—you’ll be adding it to your regular rotation in no time. Let’s dive in and talk about why you’re going to love this dish!

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

This recipe isn’t just about flavor; it’s about creating the perfect meal for any occasion. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or impressing guests, it’s sure to be a hit. Here’s why this dish is a favorite:

• Versatile: It’s perfect for any day of the week—easy enough for a casual dinner, but indulgent enough for a special occasion. You could even serve it at a dinner party, and watch everyone rave about it.
• Budget-Friendly: With simple ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen, this dish feels like a luxurious meal but doesn’t break the bank. No need to worry about hunting down expensive, hard-to-find items.
• Quick and Easy: If you’re someone who usually opts for takeout on busy days, you’ll be thrilled with how quick this recipe comes together. The chicken balls cook in a flash, and the pasta is ready before you know it.
• Customizable: You can easily tweak the seasoning or add extra vegetables if you’re looking to mix things up. Want a little kick? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter sauce!
• Crowd-Pleasing: Whether it’s kids or adults at the table, everyone will love this combination of crispy chicken and creamy pasta. It’s the kind of dish that makes everyone go for seconds (or thirds!).

Ingredients

Let’s break down what makes this dish so irresistible. Here’s a look at the ingredients that bring everything together:

Ground Chicken: The star of this dish. Ground chicken forms the base of these juicy, tender chicken balls. They soak up the garlic butter sauce beautifully, making each bite a burst of flavor.

Garlic: What would a garlic butter sauce be without garlic? The garlic adds an aromatic punch and a rich depth of flavor to the chicken balls and pasta. It’s the secret to creating that crave-worthy taste.

Butter: Creamy, golden butter is a must in this recipe. It creates the base for the rich, savory sauce that coats everything in deliciousness. Plus, it makes the chicken balls extra juicy.

Parmesan Cheese: The creamy, slightly nutty taste of Parmesan is what makes the pasta sauce so luxurious. It melts perfectly into the sauce, giving it that rich, velvety texture everyone loves.

Heavy Cream: The key to the creamy pasta sauce. Heavy cream makes everything smooth and indulgent, without being overly rich. It balances perfectly with the Parmesan cheese to create the ultimate comfort dish.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Now, let’s get cooking and bring this tasty dish to life!

Preheat Your Pan: Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. You want the pan hot enough to cook the chicken balls and get that nice golden brown crust on them.

Make the Chicken Balls: In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken with garlic, salt, pepper, and any other seasonings you like. Roll the mixture into small, bite-sized balls—about 1 inch in diameter. This is where the magic begins!

Cook the Chicken Balls: Add the chicken balls to the hot skillet and cook, turning occasionally, until they’re golden brown and cooked through. This should take about 7-10 minutes. The chicken balls should be crispy on the outside but juicy on the inside.

Make the Garlic Butter Sauce: Once the chicken balls are done, remove them from the skillet and set them aside. In the same skillet, melt a generous amount of butter, then toss in minced garlic. Let it cook for about a minute, just until fragrant. The garlic will infuse the butter with all that glorious flavor.

Prepare the Pasta Sauce: Add the heavy cream to the skillet, stirring to combine with the garlic butter. Let it simmer for a couple of minutes until it thickens slightly. Now, toss in the grated Parmesan and stir until the cheese melts, creating a smooth, creamy sauce.

Toss in the Pasta: Add your cooked pasta to the skillet and toss it around to coat it in the creamy garlic Parmesan sauce. Make sure every noodle is drenched in that cheesy goodness!

Add the Chicken Balls: Gently add the chicken balls back into the skillet, nestling them in with the pasta. Let everything simmer together for a couple of minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Serve and Enjoy: Serve the chicken balls with creamy pasta on a plate, garnished with extra Parmesan and fresh herbs like parsley or basil. Dig in, and enjoy every savory bite!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 600

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

How to Serve Garlic Butter Chicken Balls with Creamy Parmesan Pasta

This dish is satisfying on its own, but here are some ideas to elevate your meal:

• Garlic Bread: Serve alongside crispy, buttery garlic bread to soak up the rich sauce. It’s the perfect addition to this indulgent meal.
• Fresh Salad: A crisp, green salad with a light vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the creamy pasta.
• Roasted Vegetables: Try pairing this dish with roasted veggies like asparagus, zucchini, or broccoli. The slight bitterness of roasted vegetables balances out the richness of the pasta and chicken.
• Steamed Greens: Serve with a side of steamed spinach or green beans for a healthy, vibrant pop of color and flavor.

Additional Tips

Want to make the most of this recipe? Here are some extra tips:

• Make the Chicken Balls Ahead: You can make the chicken balls in advance and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours. That’ll save you time on busy nights.
• Add Vegetables: Feel free to sneak in some vegetables. Mushrooms, spinach, or peas can be added to the sauce for extra flavor and color.
• Spice It Up: If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter sauce.
• Substitute the Pasta: You can use any type of pasta you prefer—spaghetti, penne, or even a gluten-free variety if needed.
• Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of cream to keep the sauce creamy.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use chicken breast instead of ground chicken?
A1: Yes, you can! Just dice the chicken breast into small pieces or grind it yourself. Keep in mind the texture might be slightly different, but it will still taste great.

Q2: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A2: Absolutely! You can make the chicken balls and the pasta sauce ahead of time. Just store them separately in the fridge and reheat when ready to serve.

Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet with a splash of cream or milk to keep the sauce smooth.

Q4: Can I freeze this dish?
A4: Yes! You can freeze the chicken balls and sauce separately for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, just thaw and reheat the chicken balls and sauce.

Q5: Can I use a different type of cheese?
A5: Absolutely! While Parmesan is classic in this recipe, you could try Pecorino Romano, Asiago, or even a bit of mozzarella for a different flavor.

Q6: How do I make the sauce thicker?
A6: If you prefer a thicker sauce, simmer it for a little longer until it reduces. You can also stir in a little cornstarch mixed with water to thicken it faster.

Q7: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A7: Yes! Any pasta shape works well, whether it’s fettuccine, rigatoni, or even gluten-free pasta. Pick your favorite!

Q8: Can I add more vegetables to the pasta?
A8: Definitely! You could add spinach, mushrooms, or even roasted red peppers to add more color and flavor to the dish.

Q9: What other seasonings can I use?
A9: Feel free to experiment with dried herbs like oregano, thyme, or basil. A squeeze of lemon juice also adds a nice brightness to the sauce.

Q10: Can I double the recipe?
A10: Yes! This recipe easily doubles if you’re feeding a larger crowd. Just make sure you have a big enough skillet to cook everything.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Chicken Balls with Creamy Parmesan Pasta is the kind of recipe you’ll want to make again and again. With its tender chicken balls and creamy, cheesy pasta, it’s the ultimate comfort food with a touch of elegance. Perfect for family dinners, impressing guests, or simply treating yourself to something delicious, this dish checks all the boxes. Enjoy every bite—you’re going to love it!

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