Garlic Butter Chicken Balls with Creamy Parmesan Pasta: A Comfort Food Dream

There’s something undeniably comforting about the combination of tender chicken, rich garlic butter, and creamy Parmesan pasta. This dish is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for weeknight dinners, date nights, or even impressing guests. The garlic butter chicken balls are juicy, flavorful, and pair beautifully with the velvety Parmesan pasta. Below, you’ll find step-by-step recipes for both components, complete with precise cooking times and temperatures to ensure perfection.

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Garlic Butter Chicken Balls

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450g) ground chicken
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 large egg
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced (for the butter sauce)
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken Mixture
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the chicken balls tender.
2. Form the Chicken Balls
   Using your hands or a small scoop, form the mixture into 1-inch balls. You should get about 20-24 balls. Place them on a plate or baking sheet.
3. Cook the Chicken Balls
   Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat (350°F/175°C). Add the chicken balls in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for 4-5 minutes per side, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C). Remove the chicken balls and set aside.
4. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
   In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Return the chicken balls to the skillet and toss them in the garlic butter sauce. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to coat evenly. Garnish with fresh parsley.

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Creamy Parmesan Pasta

Ingredients

• 12 oz (340g) pasta (fettuccine, linguine, or spaghetti work well)
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a hint of heat)
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta
   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente (usually 8-10 minutes). Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
2. Prepare the Creamy Sauce
   In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat (350°F/175°C). Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
3. Add the Cheese
   Gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
4. Combine Pasta and Sauce
   Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat evenly in the sauce. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Garnish with fresh parsley.

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Serving Suggestions

Plate the creamy Parmesan pasta and top it with the garlic butter chicken balls. For an extra touch of elegance, sprinkle additional grated Parmesan cheese and a drizzle of the garlic butter sauce over the dish. Serve with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad to complete the meal.

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Tips for Success

1. Use Fresh Ingredients
   Fresh garlic, high-quality Parmesan cheese, and fresh herbs make a significant difference in flavor.
2. Don’t Overcook the Chicken
   Ground chicken cooks quickly, so keep an eye on the chicken balls to ensure they stay juicy.
3. Reserve Pasta Water
   The starchy pasta water helps bind the sauce to the pasta, creating a silky texture.
4. Customize the Dish
   Add vegetables like spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or mushrooms to the pasta for extra flavor and nutrition.

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Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

• Make-Ahead: You can prepare the chicken balls and sauce ahead of time. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop before serving.
• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of cream or broth to revive the sauce.
• Freezing: The chicken balls freeze well. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

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Wine Pairing

This rich and flavorful dish pairs beautifully with a crisp white wine like Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio. The acidity of the wine cuts through the creaminess of the pasta, creating a balanced dining experience.

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Conclusion

Garlic Butter Chicken Balls with Creamy Parmesan Pasta is a dish that feels indulgent yet is surprisingly simple to make. With its golden, garlicky chicken balls and luscious, cheesy pasta, it’s a meal that will have everyone asking for seconds. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a dinner party, this recipe is sure to impress. Enjoy