If you’re in search of a standout recipe that marries convenience with rich flavors, look no further than Garlic Butter Chicken Balls with Creamy Parmesan Pasta. This dish is quintessential comfort food, featuring juicy chicken balls infused with aromatic garlic butter, all served on a bed of velvety creamy pasta. Picture this: tender, seasoned chicken, expertly crafted into delightful little spheres, cooking to perfection in a savory garlic butter bath. Pair that with a luscious Parmesan sauce and you’ve got yourself a meal that’s bound to impress at any dinner table.
This recipe isn’t just a gastronomic delight; it’s also remarkably simple and quick to prepare. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, enjoying a family dinner, or simply craving a taste of something delectable after a long day, this dish will cater to your needs. The combination of creamy sauce and flavorful chicken makes every bite a pleasure.
As we dive into the preparation of this delightful dish, you’ll find that it requires minimal effort yet still delivers maximum taste. With a blend of convenient ingredients and straightforward steps, the Garlic Butter Chicken Balls Recipe becomes not only a culinary success but also a great addition to your weeknight dining repertoire.
Why You’ll Love This Garlic Butter Chicken Balls Recipe
- Flavor Explosion: The garlic butter adds a rich, savory note while the creamy Parmesan sauce contributes a comforting consistency that’s hard to resist.
- Ease of Preparation: Perfect for novice cooks; this recipe simplifies cooking without sacrificing flavor.
- Versatile Meal: Ideal for family dinners, special occasions, or weekly meal prep; it caters to various dining needs.
- Kid-Friendly: With its appealing flavors and textures, kids will enjoy this tasty dish just as much as adults!
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before embarking on your Garlic Butter Chicken Balls journey, it’s essential to set up your workspace for success. Gather all the required tools and ensure your kitchen is organized to streamline the cooking process. Start with a large mixing bowl for combining your chicken and seasoning ingredients and a sturdy skillet for frying the chicken balls. Additionally, have measuring cups and spoons handy for accurate ingredient portions.
Prepare your ingredients ahead by mincing garlic and measuring out the spices and cheeses. This not only saves time but helps in keeping the cooking experience enjoyable and straightforward. A spatula or wooden spoon will be essential for stirring, and you might also need a pot for cooking your pasta. With these items ready, you’ll be all set to create a delicious meal without unnecessary interruptions.
Ingredients
- For the Chicken Balls:
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- 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 frying)
- For the Creamy Parmesan Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- For the Pasta:
- 12 oz spaghetti or linguine (cooked according to package instructions)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Balls
Begin by mixing your ground chicken with breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, the lightly beaten egg, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Use your hands to combine the mixture thoroughly until it becomes cohesive. Once everything is well blended, shape the mixture into small meatballs, roughly 1 inch in diameter. This uniform size will help all the chicken balls cook evenly.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken Balls
Heat up 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the butter is melted and bubbling lightly, carefully introduce the chicken balls into the skillet. Allow them to cook for approximately 6-8 minutes, turning them occasionally to ensure they develop a golden-brown crust on all sides. Keep an eye on them during this process to prevent any sticking or burning. When they are thoroughly cooked through, remove the chicken balls and set them aside.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce
Using the same skillet, add another 2 tablespoons of butter and let it melt over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about one minute; this will infuse the butter with a rich garlic flavor. Then, pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, mixing everything well. Gradually stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, keeping the heat medium-low to allow the sauce to simmer gently. After 3-4 minutes, the sauce should thicken slightly. At this stage, season it with salt and black pepper according to your taste preference.
Step 4: Toss the Pasta & Assemble the Dish
Finally, it’s time to bring everything together. Add your previously cooked spaghetti or linguine to the creamy Parmesan sauce, tossing the pasta gently until it’s fully coated in the richness of the sauce. Add the browned chicken balls back into the skillet, ensuring they are nicely nestled within the pasta and sauce. Allow everything to cook together for an additional 1-2 minutes, giving the flavors time to meld. Once done, you’ll have a beautifully cohesive dish that’s bursting with flavor!
Variations
- Protein: Substitute ground turkey or beef for chicken to mix up the flavor profile.
- Vegetables: Incorporate spinach, mushrooms, or peas into the creamy sauce for added nutrition and flavor.
- Spices: Experiment with different herbs such as basil, oregano, or even a touch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
Cooking Notes
- Make sure not to overcrowd the skillet when frying the chicken balls; this can lead to uneven cooking.
- For a lighter version, replace heavy cream with half-and-half or low-fat milk; it may change the richness but keeps the sauce creamy.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a crisp side salad topped with a light vinaigrette.
- A slice of garlic bread pairs beautifully with this dish to soak up the extra creamy sauce.
Tips
- Ensure the chicken balls are cooked through by cutting one in half before removing them from the skillet.
- Reserve some pasta cooking water; add a spoonful to the sauce if it becomes too thick while combining the pasta.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 680 per serving
- Protein: 34 grams
- Sodium: 850 milligrams
FAQs
Can I make this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare everything ahead of time. Store the chicken balls and sauce separately in the fridge and combine them just before serving.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
Half-and-half or whole milk can be used as alternatives, but they may not yield the same creamy consistency.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat on the stovetop for best results.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, both the chicken balls and the sauce can be frozen. Just be sure to freeze them in individual portions for easier reheating.
Conclusion
This Garlic Butter Chicken Balls with Creamy Parmesan Pasta recipe is bound to become a beloved favorite in your household. With its comforting flavors and ease of preparation, you can whip up this dish any night of the week, impressing family and friends with minimal effort. The rich layers of taste combined with the satisfying texture of the chicken balls are genuinely a culinary experience. Don’t hesitate to try different variations to suit your personal taste or dietary preferences. We’d love to hear how your cooking adventure went, so feel free to comment and share your experiences!
Print
Garlic Butter Chicken Balls with Creamy Parmesan Pasta
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Garlic Butter Chicken Balls with Creamy Parmesan Pasta recipe is bound to become a beloved favorite in your household.
Ingredients
- For the Chicken Balls:
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- 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 frying)
- For the Creamy Parmesan Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- For the Pasta:
- 12 oz spaghetti or linguine (cooked according to package instructions)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken Balls: Begin by mixing your ground chicken with breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, the lightly beaten egg, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Use your hands to combine the mixture thoroughly until it becomes cohesive. Shape the mixture into small meatballs, roughly 1 inch in diameter.
- Cook the Chicken Balls: Heat up 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Introduce the chicken balls into the skillet and cook for approximately 6-8 minutes, turning to ensure they develop a golden-brown crust. Remove and set aside when cooked through.
- Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce: In the same skillet, add another 2 tablespoons of butter and let it melt. Add minced garlic and sauté for about one minute. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, mixing well. Gradually stir in the Parmesan cheese, allowing the sauce to thicken, and season with salt and pepper.
- Toss the Pasta & Assemble the Dish: Add previously cooked spaghetti or linguine to the creamy sauce, tossing gently until fully coated. Add the browned chicken balls and cook together for an additional 1-2 minutes.
Notes
Make sure not to overcrowd the skillet when frying the chicken balls.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: 680 kcal
- Sodium: 850 mg
- Protein: 34 g