Garlic Butter Chicken Balls with Creamy Parmesan Pasta – A Comfort Food Favorite 🍝🧄🧈
This Garlic Butter Chicken Balls with Creamy Parmesan Pasta recipe is everything you want in a cozy, satisfying dinner. The juicy chicken meatballs, seasoned with garlic and herbs, are cooked in rich, flavorful butter and then served over a bed of perfectly cooked pasta coated in a luxuriously creamy Parmesan sauce. This dish brings together the heartiness of homemade meatballs and the comfort of a cheesy pasta that everyone at the table will love.
It’s ideal for family dinners, weekend indulgence, or any time you’re craving something creamy, cheesy, and garlicky. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and comes together in under 45 minutes!
Ingredients
For the Chicken Balls
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 egg
- 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 pan-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
How to Make Garlic Butter Chicken Balls with Creamy Parmesan Pasta
1. Make the Chicken Balls
In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything until well combined. Form into small meatballs (about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter).
2. Cook the Chicken Balls
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the chicken balls in batches (don’t overcrowd the pan) and cook for 6–8 minutes, turning occasionally until all sides are golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Remove the chicken balls from the skillet and set aside.
3. Prepare the Sauce
In the same skillet, melt another 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and continue to cook for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
4. Add Pasta & Finish
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss well to coat the pasta evenly. Return the chicken balls to the skillet, placing them gently on top of the pasta. Spoon some of the sauce over the meatballs and let everything simmer for another minute or two to meld the flavors.
5. Serve & Garnish
Plate the pasta and chicken balls and garnish with extra grated Parmesan or freshly chopped parsley. Serve hot and enjoy this creamy, garlicky goodness!
Serving Suggestions
Serve with a crisp side salad with balsamic vinaigrette or Caesar dressing. Pair with garlic bread or a warm baguette to soak up the extra sauce. Add steamed broccoli or roasted asparagus on the side for a complete meal.
What Chefs Say About This Recipe
Gordon Ramsay – “Comfort food at its best. The chicken balls are flavorful, and the sauce is decadently creamy.”
Ina Garten – “An elegant yet simple pasta dish that delivers big on flavor.”
Jamie Oliver – “This is the kind of food that brings people together around the table.”
Martha Stewart – “Well-seasoned, hearty, and satisfying—a perfect weeknight dinner.”
Bobby Flay – “That garlic-Parmesan combo? Absolutely irresistible.”
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?
Yes, ground turkey works just as well and offers a similar texture and flavor. - What pasta shape works best?
Spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine are great, but penne or rigatoni also hold the sauce well. - Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. You can prepare the meatballs and sauce in advance. Reheat gently before serving. - Can I make it gluten-free?
Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and pasta. Ensure your broth and other ingredients are gluten-free too. - Can I bake the chicken balls instead?
Yes. Bake at 400°F for 20–25 minutes, turning once halfway through. - What’s a good cheese alternative to Parmesan?
Try Pecorino Romano or Asiago for a similar salty, nutty flavor. - How can I make the sauce thicker?
Simmer longer, or stir in a teaspoon of flour or cornstarch dissolved in a little water. - Can I add veggies to the dish?
Absolutely. Spinach, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes are great add-ins. - Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes. Store in airtight containers. Reheat on the stove with a splash of cream or broth. - Is this kid-friendly?
Definitely! It’s cheesy, creamy, and mild in flavor—most kids love it.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Calories: 560 kcal
Carbohydrates: 40g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 32g
Saturated Fat: 16g
Sugar: 2g
Fiber: 2g
Sodium: 480mg
Storage and Leftovers
Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheat: Warm gently on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of cream or broth.
Freeze: Freeze in individual portions. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat as above.
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Conclusion
This Garlic Butter Chicken Balls with Creamy Parmesan Pasta recipe is a delicious blend of flavors and textures that’s sure to impress. From the juicy, herb-spiced chicken balls to the silky, garlicky Parmesan cream sauce, it’s a dish that brings comfort and satisfaction with every bite. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or a date night at home, this dish delivers a restaurant-quality experience without the hassle. Don’t lose this recipe—make it once, and it’ll become a favorite in your kitchen! 🧄🍝🧈