Garlic Butter Chicken Balls with Creamy Parmesan Pasta is a decadent and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a comforting dinner or a special occasion. Juicy chicken meatballs, infused with garlic and herbs, are paired with a luscious Parmesan cream sauce and tender pasta to create a dish that’s indulgent and satisfying. This recipe is a delightful blend of rich flavors and creamy textures that will please your family and guests.
Ingredients:
For the Chicken Balls:
- 1 lb (450g) ground chicken
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 egg
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for frying)
For the Creamy Parmesan Sauce:
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- Salt to taste
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg (optional)
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz (340g) fettuccine or spaghetti
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions:
- Prepare the Chicken Balls:
- In a large bowl, mix ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, egg, parsley, onion powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Roll the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
- Cook the Chicken Balls:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken balls and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain, toss with 1 tbsp olive oil to prevent sticking, and set aside.
- Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce:
- In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute).
- Stir in the heavy cream, black pepper, and nutmeg (if using). Bring to a gentle simmer.
- Gradually whisk in the Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with salt to taste.
- Combine Everything:
- Add the cooked chicken balls to the sauce and simmer for 2-3 minutes to coat them in the creamy goodness.
- Toss the cooked pasta into the skillet, mixing until everything is evenly coated in the sauce.
- Serve:
- Plate the pasta and chicken balls, garnishing with fresh parsley and additional grated Parmesan if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!
Conclusion:
Garlic Butter Chicken Balls with Creamy Parmesan Pasta is a rich and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. The tender chicken balls, paired with the silky Parmesan sauce and perfectly cooked pasta, create a harmony of flavors that’s hard to resist. Whether served as a family dinner or for entertaining guests, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your home.
Tips:
- Customizable Meatballs: Swap ground chicken with turkey or beef for a different flavor profile.
- Extra Garlic Butter Flavor: Drizzle some melted garlic butter over the finished dish for an extra burst of flavor.
- Vegetable Additions: Add sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or roasted cherry tomatoes for a balanced dish.
- Make Ahead: Prepare the chicken balls in advance and store them in the refrigerator or freezer until ready to cook.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to maintain the creamy sauce texture.