Garlic Butter Chicken Balls Recipe – Easy Creamy Pasta

why make this recipe

Garlic Butter Chicken Balls with Easy Creamy Pasta is a delightful combination of flavors and textures that can be a perfect family dinner. This recipe combines tender chicken balls packed with garlic and Italian herbs, sautéed to golden perfection, and then served with a rich, creamy sauce over perfectly cooked pasta. The combination of the buttery, garlicky chicken and the creamy sauce enveloping the pasta creates a dish that is not only filling but also comforting.

This recipe is wonderful for busy weeknights because it comes together quickly while still feeling special. It’s a great way to enjoy a homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen. With familiar ingredients and straightforward steps, even beginner cooks can shine in preparing this dish. You can easily impress your family or guests with your cooking skills, and everyone will love the savory flavors. Plus, it’s versatile enough to adapt to various tastes—whether you want it spicier or cheesier, you can adjust the seasonings and toppings according to preference.

Moreover, this dish doesn’t just taste good; it looks appealing too. The golden chicken balls against the creamy sauce and the vibrant pasta offer a feast for the eyes and the palate. It’s a simple yet indulgent recipe that makes any day feel like a special occasion. So, if you’re looking for a comforting meal that everyone will love, look no further!

how to make Garlic Butter Chicken Balls Recipe – Easy Creamy Pasta

Making Garlic Butter Chicken Balls Recipe with Easy Creamy Pasta is simple and fun. You will need to follow a few steps to create this tasty dish. Here’s how to do it in detail.

Ingredients :

• 1 lb ground chicken
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1 egg, lightly beaten
• 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 frying)
• 2 tablespoons butter (for sauce)
• 2 garlic cloves, minced (for sauce)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated (for sauce)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 12 oz spaghetti or linguine (cooked according to package instructions)

Directions :

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Balls

Start by preparing the chicken balls, which are the stars of this recipe! In a large mixing bowl, combine the following ingredients: ground chicken, breadcrumbs, 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, the lightly beaten egg, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything together until evenly combined. This mixture should be moist but hold its shape when formed into balls.

Once you have mixed the ingredients well, it’s time to roll them into balls. With your hands, take small portions of the mixture and roll them between your palms into small balls, roughly one inch in diameter. If the mixture feels too wet, you can add a bit more breadcrumbs to help with the binding.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken Balls

Next, you need to cook the chicken balls. Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a skillet over medium heat. Once the butter has melted and is sizzling, add the chicken balls to the skillet, making sure they are not crowded (you might need to do this in batches). Cook the chicken balls for about 8-10 minutes, turning them occasionally, until they are golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Once cooked, remove them from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce

Now it’s time to create the creamy sauce that will coat your pasta and chicken balls beautifully. Using the same skillet where you cooked the chicken balls, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic as it can turn bitter.

Next, pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and 1/2 cup of chicken broth. Stir everything together and let it simmer for about 5 minutes. This will help the flavors meld together. After simmering, stir in 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese until it melts into the sauce. Taste the sauce and adjust with salt and black pepper according to your preference.

Step 4: Toss the Pasta & Assemble the Dish

The final step is to combine everything together. Make sure your pasta (spaghetti or linguine) is already cooked according to the package instructions and drained. Add the cooked pasta to the creamy sauce in the skillet and toss it gently until it’s well coated.

Then, gently fold in the cooked chicken balls. This will ensure that they are nicely enveloped in the creamy sauce and ready to be served. Allow the dish to warm up slightly on low heat for a couple of minutes if necessary.

Once everything is combined, serve the pasta and chicken balls hot from the skillet. You can garnish with extra grated Parmesan cheese, freshly chopped herbs like parsley, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for some heat if you desire.

how to serve Garlic Butter Chicken Balls Recipe – Easy Creamy Pasta

Serving this dish is about making it look as good as it tastes! When plating, serve the creamy pasta in bowls or on plates, placing a generous amount of chicken balls on top. A light sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese adds a touch of sophistication. Fresh herbs like parsley or basil can not only enhance the visual appeal but also add a nice fresh flavor.

This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness of the creamy pasta. A side of garlic bread or crusty bread can also complement the meal perfectly, allowing everyone to scoop up the delicious sauce and bits of chicken.

For drinks, consider serving a light white wine or sparkling water with a slice of lemon. This will round out the meal beautifully and make it feel more special. Don’t forget to keep some extra cheese on hand for those who like a little more!

how to store Garlic Butter Chicken Balls Recipe – Easy Creamy Pasta

If you find yourself with leftovers from this tasty dish, you can store them easily for future meals. First, let the pasta and chicken balls cool to room temperature after serving.

Once cooled, transfer the leftovers to an airtight container. It’s best to keep the pasta and chicken balls separate when storing to avoid the pasta soaking up too much sauce, which might make it mushy when reheated. You can keep them stored in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days.

When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, you can reheat them in a microwave-safe dish or on the stovetop. If the pasta seems a bit dry, add a splash of chicken broth or cream while reheating to bring back the creamy texture. Ensure that the chicken is heated thoroughly before serving.

tips to make Garlic Butter Chicken Balls Recipe – Easy Creamy Pasta

Here are some helpful tips to ensure your Garlic Butter Chicken Balls and Easy Creamy Pasta turn out perfectly:

1. Don’t Overmix: When mixing the ground chicken mixture, avoid overmixing, as this can make the chicken balls tough. Mix just until combined.

2. Uniform Size: Try to keep the chicken balls roughly the same size for even cooking. Using a scooper can help achieve uniformity.

3. Test for Seasoning: Before forming the balls, you can sauté a tiny bit of the mixture to taste for seasoning. Adjust salt or herbs as needed.

4. Prepare Ahead: You can prepare the chicken balls ahead of time and refrigerate them before cooking. This allows flavors to develop and saves you time.

5. Pasta Cooking: Make sure to cook the pasta just al dente as it will continue to cook slightly once added to the sauce. This keeps it from becoming too soft.

6. Garnish: Fresh herbs not only add flavor but also brighten the dish visually. Always consider some fresh parsley or basil as a final touch.

7. Adapt the Spice Level: Spice lovers can add crushed red pepper flakes or more paprika to the chicken ball mixture or sprinkle over the top before serving.

variation

This recipe is flexible, allowing for several variations. Here are a few ideas to customize your Garlic Butter Chicken Balls and Easy Creamy Pasta:

1. Use Different Proteins: If you want to switch things up, consider using ground turkey, beef, or even finely chopped mushrooms for a vegetarian version. Each option will give a different flavor profile.

2. Add Vegetables: You can include finely chopped vegetables such as spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers to the chicken mixture for added nutrition and color.

3. Herb Variations: Instead of Italian seasoning, you could use other herbs like thyme, oregano, or basil to switch up the flavor. Fresh herbs can also be added to the creamy sauce for a fresh touch.

4. Change the Cheese: Experiment with different cheeses in the sauce. Cheddar or Gouda can provide a unique flavor twist.

5. Change the Pasta: Instead of spaghetti or linguine, you can use other types of pasta, such as penne, fusilli, or even gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary preferences.

6. Create a Spicy Twist: For those who enjoy heat, include chopped jalapeños or use spicy Italian sausage instead of plain ground chicken.

7. Serve Over Rice: Instead of pasta, consider serving the chicken balls and creamy sauce over rice or quinoa for a different meal option.

FAQs

1. Can I freeze Garlic Butter Chicken Balls?

Yes, you can freeze the chicken balls before cooking. Freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They can be cooked straight from the freezer; just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

2. Can I substitute the heavy cream?

If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or whole milk. Keep in mind that the sauce may not be as thick or creamy, but it will still be delicious.

3. What can I serve with this dish?

This dish pairs wonderfully with fresh green salads, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables. You can also add a side of roasted or grilled vegetables for extra nutrition.

4. How do I know when the chicken balls are cooked through?

To ensure the chicken balls are fully cooked, they should be golden brown outside, and a meat thermometer inserted into the center should read 165°F (74°C).

5. Can I make the sauce vegan?

Yes! You can use coconut cream or cashew cream as a substitute for heavy cream, and use vegetable broth in place of chicken broth. For the cheese, consider using a plant-based version or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.

6. How long does it take to prepare this recipe?

The entire process takes approximately 30-45 minutes, depending on your cooking speed and prep time. It’s a relatively quick meal ideal for busy nights!

With this structured guide, you now have everything you need to prepare a delicious Garlic Butter Chicken Balls Recipe accompanied by Easy Creamy Pasta. Enjoy the cooking process, and savor every bite of this delightful dish!

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