Garlic Butter Chicken Balls + Creamy Parmesan Pasta

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Golden, pan-seared chicken balls drenched in garlic butter and nestled into a bed of creamy Parmesan pasta – this dish is comfort food at its finest. The chicken is juicy and tender inside, with a crisp buttery exterior, while the sauce is rich with layers of nutty Parmesan and smooth cream.

This is a fantastic recipe for cozy weeknights, indulgent date nights, or impressing dinner guests. It’s straightforward enough for beginners yet elegant enough to feel gourmet. Plus, both components come together in one comforting, flavorful plate.

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What Kind of Pasta Should I Use?

Fettuccine or tagliatelle is perfect for this recipe as their flat shape holds the creamy sauce beautifully. However, if you have spaghetti, linguine, or even penne on hand, those will work too. The key is to choose a pasta shape that captures the silky Parmesan sauce well.

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Ingredients for the Garlic Butter Chicken Balls + Creamy Parmesan Pasta

Ground Chicken – The foundation of the chicken balls. It’s light and absorbs the buttery and garlicky flavors deliciously.

Panko Breadcrumbs – Gives the chicken balls structure and a slight crunch when seared.

Garlic (minced) – Adds warmth and depth to both the chicken and sauce.

Parmesan Cheese (grated) – Essential for that nutty, salty umami in the sauce and a sprinkle over the top.

Heavy Cream – Makes the pasta luxuriously creamy and rich.

Egg – Helps bind the chicken mixture together.

Butter – Used generously to cook the chicken balls and flavor the sauce.

Fresh Parsley – Adds a pop of color and freshness to balance the richness.

Salt & Pepper – For seasoning throughout.

Fettuccine (or pasta of choice) – The perfect canvas for the creamy Parmesan sauce and juicy chicken balls.

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How To Make the Garlic Butter Chicken Balls + Creamy Parmesan Pasta

Step 1: Make the Chicken Balls Mixture

In a bowl, mix together ground chicken, minced garlic, Panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, a beaten egg, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to combine everything until just mixed. Roll into small balls, about the size of a tablespoon.

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Step 2: Sear the Chicken Balls

In a large skillet, heat butter over medium heat. Add the chicken balls in batches, turning occasionally until all sides are golden brown and the interior is cooked through (about 8-10 minutes total). Set aside on a plate while you make the sauce.

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Step 3: Cook the Pasta

While the chicken cooks, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the fettuccine (or your pasta of choice) until al dente, according to package instructions. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining.

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Step 4: Prepare the Creamy Parmesan Sauce

In the same skillet used for the chicken balls, add more butter if needed and toss in more minced garlic. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Add grated Parmesan, stirring until it melts into a velvety sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of reserved pasta water to loosen.

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Step 5: Toss and Combine

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss in the sauce until well coated. Return the chicken balls to the skillet, nestling them into the creamy pasta. Let everything warm together for 2-3 minutes.

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Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Plate the pasta and chicken balls. Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley, more Parmesan, and an optional drizzle of garlic butter for extra richness.

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Serving and Storing Garlic Butter Chicken Balls + Creamy Parmesan Pasta

This dish is best served immediately while the sauce is hot and silky. The chicken balls hold their juiciness, and the pasta stays perfectly coated in creamy Parmesan goodness.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream or milk to revive the sauce’s creaminess. The chicken balls can also be enjoyed on their own with rice or a side salad for a lighter meal.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?

Absolutely. Ground turkey is a great alternative and works well with the garlic butter and creamy Parmesan flavors.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or a mix of whole milk and a bit of butter. The sauce won’t be quite as rich but still delicious.

Can I make the chicken balls ahead of time?

Yes, you can form the chicken balls a day ahead and refrigerate them until ready to cook. This makes prep quicker during busy weeknights.

How do I keep the chicken balls from falling apart?

Make sure the mixture is well-bound with egg and breadcrumbs. Avoid over-mixing, and chill the balls briefly before cooking if they feel too soft.

Is there a gluten-free version?

Swap in gluten-free breadcrumbs and pasta to make the dish suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, but the sauce may separate slightly when thawed. If you freeze, let it cool completely, then reheat slowly while stirring in a little cream to re-emulsify.

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Want More Dinner Ideas with Comforting Flavors?

If you love these garlic butter chicken balls with creamy Parmesan pasta, you’ll definitely want to explore these comforting dinner favorites:

• One Pot Lemon Chicken Gnocchi Delight for a tangy, creamy spin with pillowy gnocchi.
• Creamy Garlic Butter Beef Spinach Tortellini brings rich garlic flavor and cheesy tortellini together.
• Classic Baked Mac and Cheese when you’re in the mood for cheesy nostalgia.
• Parmesan Crusted Chicken with Creamy Garlic Sauce for a crispy take on creamy chicken dishes.
• Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta if you love a little heat with your creaminess.

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📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you use turkey or stick with chicken? Did you try adding mushrooms or peas to the sauce?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook with more joy.

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