Garlic Butter Chicken Balls with Creamy Parmesan Pasta

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Golden on the outside and tender inside, these Garlic Butter Chicken Balls bring a burst of flavor in every bite. Wrapped in a rich, buttery garlic coating and served atop a bed of creamy Parmesan pasta, this recipe is comfort food at its most indulgent. Whether you’re planning a cozy family dinner or want to impress guests with something both hearty and elegant, this dish is a guaranteed hit.

The garlic butter melts seamlessly into the chicken, while the Parmesan cream sauce ties everything together with its silky texture. The pasta cradles the juicy meatballs perfectly, absorbing all the savory notes from the sauce. It’s a dish that balances texture, flavor, and comfort in one unforgettable bowl.

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Ingredients for this Garlic Butter Chicken Balls with Creamy Parmesan Pasta

For the Chicken Balls:

• 1 lb ground chicken
• 1/3 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 egg
• 1 tsp dried parsley
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp olive oil (for searing)

For the Garlic Butter Sauce:

• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

For the Creamy Parmesan Pasta:

• 8 oz fettuccine or linguine pasta
• 1 tbsp butter
• 1 tbsp flour
• 1 1/4 cups milk (preferably whole)
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Balls

In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, minced garlic, egg, parsley, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is evenly combined. Form the mixture into small, bite-sized balls.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken Balls

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken balls and sear them for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown. Once seared, remove them from the pan and set aside. They don’t need to be fully cooked at this point as they’ll finish cooking later.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add fettuccine and cook until al dente according to package directions. Drain and set aside.

Step 4: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

In the same skillet used for the chicken balls, melt butter over medium-low heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in the parsley and return the chicken balls to the pan. Cook for another 5-6 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through.

Step 5: Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce

In a saucepan, melt butter and whisk in flour to form a roux. Cook for 1 minute. Slowly whisk in milk and cream, stirring continuously to prevent lumps. Simmer until slightly thickened. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, then season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook until the sauce is smooth and creamy.

Step 6: Assemble and Serve

Toss the cooked pasta with the creamy Parmesan sauce until fully coated. Plate the pasta and top with the garlic butter chicken balls. Garnish with additional parsley or Parmesan if desired.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?

Yes, ground turkey works just as well in this recipe. Just be sure it’s not too lean, or the meatballs may turn out dry.

What kind of pasta pairs best with this dish?

Fettuccine or linguine are ideal because they hold onto the creamy sauce well. However, you can also use penne or spaghetti if that’s what you have on hand.

How can I make this dish gluten-free?

Use gluten-free breadcrumbs for the chicken balls and gluten-free pasta. For the sauce, substitute a gluten-free flour or thickener like cornstarch.

Can I make this ahead of time?

You can form the chicken balls and even cook them ahead. The sauce and pasta are best made fresh, but the whole dish reheats beautifully if needed.

Is there a way to lighten up the sauce?

Yes, you can use half-and-half or a blend of milk and Greek yogurt for a lighter yet still creamy option.

What should I serve on the side?

A crisp Caesar salad or steamed green beans make excellent sides. Garlic bread is also a favorite pairing for this hearty pasta dish.

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