When you’re craving something indulgent yet easy to make, Garlic Butter Chicken Balls with Creamy Parmesan Pasta is the ultimate comfort dish. Juicy, garlicky chicken meatballs bathed in rich butter and served over velvety Parmesan pasta—this dish is bound to become a family favorite. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal, this recipe brings restaurant-quality flavor straight to your kitchen.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Packed with Flavor – The garlic butter sauce adds depth, while the Parmesan pasta keeps it creamy and comforting.
- Easy to Make – Simple ingredients and step-by-step instructions make this dish approachable for home cooks of all levels.
- Family-Friendly – Even picky eaters will love these tender, flavorful chicken balls.
- Pairs Well with Many Sides – Serve it with roasted veggies, garlic bread, or a crisp salad for a complete meal.
Looking for another creamy pasta dish? Try The Ultimate Comfort Food: Beef and Cream Shells for a rich and satisfying alternative.
Ingredients
For the Garlic Butter Chicken Balls:
- 1 lb ground chicken
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons butter (for cooking)
For the Creamy Parmesan Pasta:
- 8 oz fettuccine or spaghetti
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- ¼ cup chopped parsley (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken Balls
- In a large bowl, mix the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- Shape the mixture into small, evenly sized balls (about 1-inch in diameter).
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the chicken balls and cook for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove from the skillet and set aside.
2. Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
- Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
3. Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce
- In the same skillet used for the chicken balls, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Let the sauce thicken for 2-3 minutes, then add the cooked pasta, tossing to coat evenly. If needed, add some reserved pasta water for a silkier sauce.
4. Combine and Serve
- Return the chicken balls to the skillet, nestling them into the pasta.
- Let everything warm together for a minute before garnishing with fresh parsley.
- Serve hot with extra Parmesan cheese on top.
Tips for the Best Garlic Butter Chicken Balls with Creamy Parmesan Pasta
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best melt and flavor in the sauce.
- Don’t overwork the chicken mixture—this keeps the meatballs light and tender.
- Reserve pasta water to adjust the sauce’s consistency as needed.
- Pair it with a fresh salad for a balanced meal. Try What Goes Well with Spicy Food? for inspiration!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes! Prepare the chicken balls and sauce separately, then store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.
2. Can I Use Another Type of Pasta?
Absolutely! This dish works well with penne, rigatoni, or even zucchini noodles for a lower-carb option.
3. How Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for a kick. Check out How to Make a Spicy Meal: Tips & Techniques for more ideas!
Final Thoughts
Garlic Butter Chicken Balls with Creamy Parmesan Pasta is the perfect combination of rich, savory flavors and creamy indulgence. Whether you’re cooking for family, meal-prepping, or hosting guests, this dish delivers a satisfying experience every time.
Looking for more last-minute dinner ideas? Browse Last Minute Dinner Recipes for quick and delicious meals!