Garlic Butter Chicken Balls with Creamy Parmesan Pasta

A Symphony of Flavors: Garlic Butter Chicken Balls with Creamy Parmesan Pasta

In the quest for weeknight meal perfection, who doesn’t crave a dish that delivers maximum flavor with minimal fuss? The allure of tender, juicy chicken bathed in a rich garlic butter sauce, all tossed with perfectly cooked pasta in a velvety parmesan cream sauce, is undeniable. This “Garlic Butter Chicken Balls with Creamy Parmesan Pasta” isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience designed to impress even the pickiest eaters. We’ve all been there, staring into the abyss of the refrigerator after a long day, dreaming of something comforting yet sophisticated. This recipe offers exactly that – a harmonious blend of savory chicken, aromatic garlic, rich butter, and the irresistible creaminess of parmesan pasta. It’s a dish that promises to become a cherished staple in your culinary repertoire, consistently satisfying cravings and earning rave reviews. Get ready to elevate your dinner game with a recipe that’s as delightful to make as it is to devour.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gather these vibrant components to bring this delightful dish to life. The quality of your ingredients directly impacts the final flavor, so opt for fresh whenever possible!

For the Garlic Butter Chicken Balls:

• 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces (thighs offer supreme tenderness, breasts a leaner option)
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (for binding and crisping)
• 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (for an extra punch of garlicky goodness)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or unsalted butter, for searing
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4-6 cloves garlic, minced (use more if you’re a garlic enthusiast!)
• 1/4 cup chicken broth or white wine (for deglazing and adding depth)
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (adds a burst of freshness and color)

For the Creamy Parmesan Pasta:

• 12 oz (340g) fettuccine, linguine, or your favorite pasta shape (fettuccine makes for a luxurious mouthfeel)
• 1 tablespoon salt, for pasta water (essential for flavorful pasta)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1.5 cups heavy cream (the secret to velvety smoothness)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving (use a good quality, aged Parmesan for best flavor)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Optional: A pinch of red pepper flakes for a hint of warmth

Timing is Everything

Compared to many elaborate pasta dishes, this recipe is designed for efficiency without sacrificing flavor. The average pasta dish can take upwards of an hour, especially if you’re making a component like homemade meatballs. This streamlined approach ensures you can enjoy a restaurant-quality meal on a busy weeknight.

Step-by-Step Culinary Magic

Follow these simple steps to create your masterpiece. Don’t be afraid to taste and adjust seasonings as you go – cooking is an adventure!

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Balls

In a medium bowl, combine the bite-sized chicken pieces with flour, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Toss thoroughly until each piece is evenly coated. This flour coating is key to creating a little crispness and helps the sauce adhere beautifully later on. Think of it as a light veil of deliciousness.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken Balls

Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the coated chicken pieces in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd the pan (work in batches if necessary). Sear the chicken for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate. Don’t clean the skillet; those browned bits are pure flavor!

Step 3: Prepare the Pasta

While the chicken is cooking or resting, bring a large pot of generously salted water to a rolling boil. Add your chosen pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente – tender but with a slight bite. Before draining, reserve about 1 cup of the starchy pasta water; this liquid gold is crucial for achieving a silky sauce. Drain the pasta.

Step 4: Create the Creamy Parmesan Sauce

In the same skillet used for the chicken (reduce heat to medium), melt the 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant – be careful not to burn it! Pour in the chicken broth or white wine to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Let it simmer for a minute. Whisk in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it begins to thicken slightly. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it’s melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if using. Taste and adjust seasoning – this is your chance to make it perfect!

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet with the creamy sauce. Then, add the drained pasta. Toss everything together gently until the pasta and chicken are well coated in the luscious sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, gradually add some of the reserved pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, until it reaches your desired consistency. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley and extra grated Parmesan cheese. Enjoy the comforting embrace of this exquisite dish!

Nutritional Snapshot

While this dish celebrates richness and flavor, here’s a general idea of its nutritional profile. Specific values can vary based on exact ingredients and portion sizes.

• Calories: Approx. 600-800 per serving (depending on portion size and ingredients)
• Protein: High (from chicken)
• Carbohydrates: Moderate (from pasta)
• Fat: Moderate to High (from butter, cream, cheese, oil)

Healthier Swaps, Uncompromised Flavor

Want to lighten things up without sacrificing taste? Here are a few smart substitutions:

• Leaner Protein: Use chicken breast instead of thighs. You can even opt for turkey breast, though it may be less forgiving in terms of dryness.
• Lighter Cream Sauce: Replace some of the heavy cream with low-fat milk or half-and-half, and thicken with a little cornstarch or a roux made with less butter. You could also use Greek yogurt or silken tofu blended for a creamy base, though this will alter the flavor profile significantly.
• Whole Wheat Pasta: Opt for whole wheat fettuccine or linguine for added fiber and nutrients.
• Reduced Fat Cheese: Use a reduced-fat Parmesan, though the flavor might be less intense.
• More Veggies: Bulk up the dish with steamed broccoli, spinach, or peas tossed in at the end.

How to Serve Your Masterpiece

This dish is a complete meal on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with:

• A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness.
• Steamed or roasted asparagus or broccoli for an extra dose of greens.
• Crusty bread for soaking up any leftover delicious sauce.

Avoid These Common Pitfalls

Tiny errors can make a big difference. Keep these tips in mind:

• Overcrowding the Pan: This prevents the chicken from searing properly, making it steam rather than brown. Cook in batches!
• Burning the Garlic: Minced garlic cooks quickly. Add it towards the end of sautéing and watch it carefully to prevent bitterness.
• Under-salting Pasta Water: Properly salted pasta water seasons the pasta from the inside out, a critical step for flavor.
• Using Stale Parmesan: Pre-shredded Parmesan often contains anti-caking agents and lacks the nutty, sharp flavor of freshly grated cheese.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

Leftovers are a wonderful thing! Store cooled pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to revive the sauce, or in the microwave. Be aware that pasta can sometimes become a bit softer upon reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Thoughts: A Creamy, Dreamy Delight

The Garlic Butter Chicken Balls with Creamy Parmesan Pasta is more than just a recipe; it’s a comforting hug in a bowl, a testament to how simple ingredients can create something truly spectacular. The interplay of the savory, tender chicken kissed by garlic butter and the rich, velvety parmesan pasta is simply divine. It’s the kind of meal that brings people together, sparks conversation, and leaves everyone asking for seconds. We’re confident this dish will quickly become a go-to in your kitchen. So, gather your ingredients, put on some music, and get ready to create a truly memorable meal. Don’t forget to share your creations with us on social media using #GarlicButterChickenPasta! What did you think of this recipe? We’d love to hear your feedback in the comments below!

Garlic Butter Chicken Balls with Creamy Parmesan Pasta

Print Recipe

This Garlic Butter Chicken Balls with Creamy Parmesan Pasta recipe is bound to become a beloved favorite in your household.

• Author: Chef Samantha

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• For the Chicken Balls:
• 1lb ground chicken
• 1/2 cupbreadcrumbs
• 1/4 cupParmesan cheese, grated
• 1egg, lightly beaten
• 2garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoonItalian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoonpaprika
• 1/4 teaspoonsalt
• 1/4 teaspoonblack pepper
• 2 tablespoonsbutter (for frying)
• For the Creamy Parmesan Sauce:
• 2 tablespoonsbutter
• 2garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cupheavy cream
• 1/2 cupchicken broth
• 1/2 cupParmesan cheese, grated
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• For the Pasta:
• 12 ozspaghetti or linguine (cooked according to package instructions)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken Balls: Begin by mixing your ground chicken with breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, the lightly beaten egg, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Use your hands to combine the mixture thoroughly until it becomes cohesive. Shape the mixture into small meatballs, roughly 1 inch in diameter.
2. Cook the Chicken Balls: Heat up 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Introduce the chicken balls into the skillet and cook for approximately 6-8 minutes, turning to ensure they develop a golden-brown crust. Remove and set aside when cooked through.
3. Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce: In the same skillet, add another 2 tablespoons of butter and let it melt. Add minced garlic and sauté for about one minute. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, mixing well. Gradually stir in the Parmesan cheese, allowing the sauce to thicken, and season with salt and pepper.
4. Toss the Pasta & Assemble the Dish: Add previously cooked spaghetti or linguine to the creamy sauce, tossing gently until fully coated. Add the browned chicken balls and cook together for an additional 1-2 minutes.

Notes

Make sure not to overcrowd the skillet when frying the chicken balls.

Nutrition

• Calories: 680 kcal
• Protein: 34 g