Description
This Garlic Butter Chicken Balls with Creamy Parmesan Pasta recipe features tender ground chicken meatballs cooked in buttery garlic and served atop a rich, creamy Parmesan pasta. The combination of flavors and textures makes for a comforting and satisfying meal that comes together in just 40 minutes, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Chicken Balls
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 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 the Creamy Parmesan Sauce & Pasta
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 12 oz spaghetti or linguine, cooked according to package instructions
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken Balls: In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated. Then, form the mixture into small meatballs about 1 inch in diameter.
- Cook the Chicken Balls: Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken meatballs and cook, turning occasionally, for 6-8 minutes or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Remove the meatballs from the skillet and set aside.
- Prepare the Creamy Parmesan Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the heavy cream and chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and starts to thicken. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked spaghetti or linguine to the skillet with the creamy Parmesan sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated in the sauce.
- Serve: Plate the creamy Parmesan pasta and top it with the garlic butter chicken balls. Optionally, garnish with additional Parmesan cheese or freshly chopped parsley. Serve immediately and enjoy your meal.
Notes
- Ensure chicken meatballs are cooked through by cutting one open to check if needed.
- You can substitute ground chicken with ground turkey if preferred.
- For a lighter option, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, though the sauce will be less rich.
- Fresh parsley garnish adds a pop of color and fresh flavor but is optional.
- Cook pasta al dente according to package instructions for the best texture.
- If the sauce becomes too thick, thin it out with a splash of chicken broth or cream.
