If you’re looking for a creamy, garlicky, and protein-packed meal, Garlic Butter Chicken Balls with Creamy Parmesan Pasta is the perfect dish. These juicy chicken balls are infused with garlic butter, served over rich and velvety Parmesan pasta, making it an irresistible meal for lunch or dinner.
Mastering homemade chicken balls ensures a tender texture and bold flavor. According to Serious Eats, the secret to juicy, flavorful meatballs lies in using the right combination of breadcrumbs, eggs, and seasonings. Additionally, choosing the right pasta shape ensures that the creamy sauce coats every bite. Learn more in The Kitchn’s guide to pasta pairings.
Now, let’s dive into how to make this creamy, garlic butter-infused dish at home!
🔥 Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- 🥄 Easy to make – Uses simple ingredients with minimal prep time.
- 🧈 Rich and creamy – The garlic butter sauce is silky and packed with flavor.
- 🍗 Juicy chicken balls – Infused with garlic and Parmesan for extra richness.
- 🍱 Great for meal prep – Stores well and reheats beautifully.
If you enjoy cheesy garlic-flavored meals, check out these Cheesy Garlic Chicken Wraps for another delicious recipe idea.
🌿 What Makes Garlic Butter Chicken Balls Special?
Unlike traditional meatballs, these chicken balls are lighter yet packed with flavor. The garlic butter infusion adds:
- Bold garlic flavor that enhances every bite.
- A crispy, golden-brown crust from pan-searing.
- A rich butter glaze that keeps them moist and tender.
For more tips on making perfectly tender chicken balls, check out this expert guide.
🛒 Ingredients for the Perfect Garlic Butter Chicken Balls
🥩 Chicken Balls
- Ground chicken – Light, tender, and absorbs flavors well.
- Breadcrumbs – Helps bind the mixture while keeping it soft.
- Egg – Essential for structure and moisture retention.
- Parmesan cheese – Adds depth and richness.
- Garlic & onion powder – Enhances the flavor.
- Italian seasoning – A blend of basil, oregano, and thyme.
🧄 Garlic Butter Sauce
- Butter – Creates a rich, creamy base.
- Minced garlic – Key for that bold garlic flavor.
- Heavy cream – Makes the sauce velvety smooth.
- Parmesan cheese – Thickens the sauce and adds a nutty, salty kick.
🍝 Best Pasta Choices
- Fettuccine – Holds creamy sauces well.
- Penne – Perfect for trapping sauce inside.
- Linguine – A great balance between texture and creaminess.
For more pasta pairing tips, check out The Kitchn’s guide.
👨🍳 How to Make Garlic Butter Chicken Balls with Creamy Parmesan Pasta
🛠️ 1️⃣ Preparing the Chicken Balls
- In a bowl, mix ground chicken, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan, and seasonings.
- Roll into even-sized balls for uniform cooking.
- Sear in a skillet with butter until golden brown, then set aside.
🔥 2️⃣ Cooking the Garlic Butter Chicken Balls
- Heat butter and olive oil in a pan.
- Sauté the chicken balls until fully cooked, about 8-10 minutes.
- Remove from heat and let them rest to retain moisture.
🧄 3️⃣ Making the Creamy Parmesan Sauce
- Melt butter in a pan and sauté garlic until fragrant.
- Pour in heavy cream, stirring constantly.
- Add grated Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper.
🍽️ 4️⃣ Combining Everything
- Toss cooked pasta in the creamy garlic butter sauce.
- Add the chicken balls and mix gently.
- Garnish with extra Parmesan and fresh parsley before serving.
🥗 What to Serve with Garlic Butter Chicken Balls Pasta
This dish pairs well with fresh, light sides:
- 🥖 Garlic bread – Perfect for scooping up extra sauce.
- 🥦 Roasted or steamed vegetables – Adds a healthy contrast.
- 🥗 A crisp Caesar salad – Balances the richness of the pasta.
Looking for more side dish ideas? Check out What Pairs Well with Chicken Wraps—many of these sides work well with creamy pasta too!
🚫 Common Mistakes to Avoid
To make the best Garlic Butter Chicken Balls with Creamy Parmesan Pasta, avoid these mistakes:
- 🍤 Overcooking the chicken balls – Cook just until golden brown and juicy.
- 🧀 Using pre-shredded Parmesan – It won’t melt smoothly into the sauce.
- 🥛 Adding cold cream to a hot pan – Let it warm slightly to prevent separation.
❓ FAQs: Answering Common Questions
1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! Store the chicken balls and pasta separately, then combine when reheating.
2. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce.
3. Can I make this recipe without dairy?
Yes! Use coconut milk instead of cream and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.
4. How do I make this dish gluten-free?
Swap breadcrumbs for almond flour and use gluten-free pasta.
5. Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey works well but may need extra seasoning.
🏆 Final Thoughts: Why You Need to Try This Dish
Garlic Butter Chicken Balls with Creamy Parmesan Pasta is a must-try recipe for anyone who loves bold flavors, creamy sauces, and tender chicken.
🌟 Key Takeaways:
- 🥩 Use fresh Parmesan for a silky, smooth sauce.
- 🍤 Don’t overcook the chicken balls—keep them juicy!
- 🥛 Balance the garlic butter with cream for the perfect sauce.
Want another cheesy, garlic-packed meal? Try Cheesy Garlic Chicken Wraps for a handheld version of this creamy goodness!
Now, go ahead and cook up this irresistible dish! 🍽️😊