Garlic Butter Chicken Balls Recipe – Easy Creamy Pasta

Why Make This Recipe

If you’re looking for a comforting and satisfying meal that combines delicious flavors and simple preparation, the Garlic Butter Chicken Balls Recipe paired with Easy Creamy Pasta is the perfect choice. This dish brings together tender chicken balls infused with garlic and seasoning, complemented by a rich and creamy sauce over pasta. It’s an excellent dish for family dinners, special gatherings, or even a cozy night in. Creating this recipe takes less effort than expected while delivering great taste, making it ideal for both novice and experienced cooks.

How to Make Garlic Butter Chicken Balls

Making Garlic Butter Chicken Balls is a straightforward process. With just a bit of preparation and easy steps, you can have a mouthwatering dish ready to serve. Below are the detailed steps to prepare this delicious meal, including the ingredients and instructions.

Ingredients:

• For the Chicken Balls:

  • 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)

• For the Creamy Sauce:

  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

• For the Pasta:

  • 12 oz spaghetti or linguine (cooked according to package instructions)

Directions:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Balls

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, beaten egg, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
2. Mix the ingredients thoroughly using your hands or a spatula until well combined. The mixture should be moist but firm enough to shape into balls.
3. Once mixed, form the chicken mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. You should get around 20-24 chicken balls. Set them aside on a plate.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken Balls

1. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Allow the butter to melt and foam slightly.
2. Carefully add the chicken balls to the skillet, ensuring not to overcrowd them. Cook the balls for about 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are golden brown and cooked through. You can check the internal temperature of the chicken balls; they should reach at least 165°F.
3. Once cooked, remove the chicken balls from the skillet and set them aside on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess grease.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce

1. In the same skillet, add 2 more tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once melted, add 2 minced garlic cloves.
2. Sauté the garlic for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant, but be careful not to burn it.
3. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Let the mixture simmer gently for about 5 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
4. Add in the grated Parmesan cheese, and stir continuously until the cheese has melted and the sauce is creamy. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Step 4: Toss the Pasta & Assemble the Dish

1. If you haven’t already, cook the spaghetti or linguine according to the package instructions. Drain the pasta, reserving a little pasta water in case you want to thin the sauce.
2. Add the cooked pasta to the creamy Parmesan sauce in the skillet. Toss gently to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce.
3. Finally, add the cooked chicken balls to the pasta and sauce. Toss everything together until the chicken is mixed well with the pasta and sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, you can add a splash of the reserved pasta water.
4. Serve the dish warm, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese or fresh herbs if desired for added flavor.

How to Serve Garlic Butter Chicken Balls

You can serve Garlic Butter Chicken Balls over the creamy pasta as a complete meal. Each plate should contain a generous helping of pasta, with several chicken balls nestled among the strands. To add a nice touch, sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top, and consider adding fresh parsley or basil for color. For an extra flavor boost, add a dash of crushed red pepper flakes to each serving for those who enjoy a bit of heat. This dish pairs well with a simple garden salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness of the meal.

How to Store Garlic Butter Chicken Balls

If you have leftovers or want to make this dish ahead of time, storing Garlic Butter Chicken Balls is easy. Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. You can store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Ensure to keep the chicken balls and pasta mixed with the creamy sauce together in the same container for optimal freshness.

For longer storage, you can freeze the chicken balls separately or the entire dish. In this case, ensure to use a freezer-safe container. The dish can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. When ready to enjoy, defrost in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk or chicken broth to help revive the creamy sauce if it thickens too much during storage.

Tips to Make Garlic Butter Chicken Balls

• Chicken Options: For a healthier option, you can use ground turkey instead of ground chicken.
• Binding Agent: If the chicken mixture feels too dry, add a tablespoon of milk to help bind everything together.
• Flavor Boost: Feel free to experiment with additional herbs and spices in the chicken mixture, like oregano or thyme.
• Pasta Extra: You can also use other pasta types like penne or fusilli if you prefer different textures.
• Cooking Method: You can bake the chicken balls instead of frying them. Preheat your oven to 400°F and place the chicken balls on a greased baking sheet. Bake for about 20-25 minutes until cooked through and golden brown.

Variation

• Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian version, replace the ground chicken with a mixture of finely chopped mushrooms, grated zucchini, and breadcrumbs. Use plant-based options for the cream and cheese while keeping the same seasonings.
• Add Vegetables: You can add sautéed vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms to the sauce for added nutrition and a colorful dish.
• Pesto Chicken Balls: Instead of garlic, incorporate basil pesto into the chicken mixture for a twist, which gives the chicken more flavor while retaining moisture.

FAQs

Can I use frozen ground chicken to make this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen ground chicken, but make sure it is thoroughly defrosted before mixing. It is best to leave it in the refrigerator overnight to defrost properly.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken balls ahead of time and store them in the fridge. You can cook them just before serving to maintain their freshness.

Is it possible to make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the creamy sauce ahead of time. Just reheat it gently before adding the cooked pasta and chicken balls. If the sauce thickens in the fridge, just add a little bit of milk or chicken broth to loosen it up.

Can leftovers be reheated?

Yes, leftovers can be reheated in the microwave or on the stove. If reheating on the stove, add a splash of milk or broth to ensure the sauce does not become too thick.

What type of pasta works best with this dish?

Both spaghetti and linguine work well, but feel free to use any pasta shape you prefer. Just make sure to cook it according to the package directions for the best texture.

This Garlic Butter Chicken Balls with Easy Creamy Pasta recipe is not only delicious but also a fantastic meal choice that is both filling and comforting. Whether it’s a regular weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish will surely please everyone at the table. Enjoy your cooking journey!

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