Indulge in a rich, flavorful dish that’s sure to become a family favorite! These Garlic Butter Chicken Balls with Creamy Parmesan Pasta are perfectly seasoned, tender meatballs served over a bed of luscious pasta coated in a velvety Parmesan sauce. This recipe is the perfect combination of comfort and gourmet sophistication, making it ideal for a cozy dinner or an elegant dinner party.
Ingredients (Serves 4)
For the Chicken Balls:
- 1 lb (450 g) ground chicken
- 1/3 cup (30 g) breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup (20 g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 tsp dried parsley)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp butter, for frying
For the Creamy Parmesan Pasta:
- 8 oz (225 g) spaghetti or fettuccine
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 cups (360 ml) heavy cream
- 1 cup (90 g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- Salt, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Balls
- In a large bowl, mix the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, egg, parsley, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- Shape the mixture into 1-inch balls and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken Balls
- Heat butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the chicken balls and cook for 4–5 minutes per side, turning occasionally, until golden brown and fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C). Remove and set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Pasta
- Cook the spaghetti in salted boiling water according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce
- In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream and simmer gently for 2–3 minutes.
- Stir in the Parmesan cheese, whisking until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens. Add the reserved pasta water to adjust the sauce’s consistency, if needed.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
- Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss until fully coated.
- Plate the pasta and top with the chicken balls.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich and Creamy: The Parmesan sauce is indulgent and perfectly complements the juicy chicken balls.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under an hour, it’s an ideal weeknight meal with a restaurant-quality vibe.
- Customizable: Swap spaghetti with your favorite pasta or add a hint of spice with red pepper flakes.
Tips for Success
- Don’t Overwork the Meat Mixture: Mix the ingredients gently to keep the chicken balls tender.
- Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the chicken mixture or the sauce for a spicy kick.
- Use Freshly Grated Parmesan: It melts better and gives the sauce a richer flavor.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair this dish with a crisp green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
- Serve with a glass of white wine, like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc, to enhance the creamy flavors.
Leftovers and Storage
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm gently on the stove with a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce.
This Garlic Butter Chicken Balls with Creamy Parmesan Pasta is the ultimate comfort food with a touch of elegance. Perfect for impressing guests or simply treating yourself, this dish delivers on both flavor and presentation. Enjoy every bite of this creamy, garlicky, and cheesy masterpiece! 🍝🧄✨
