Name: Garlic Butter Chicken Balls with Creamy Parmesan Pasta
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American-Italian
Ingredients: 1 lb ground chicken; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 large egg; 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs; 1/3 cup grated parmesan cheese; 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley; 2 tbsp butter (for searing); 1 tbsp olive oil; 8 oz fettuccine or tagliatelle; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese (for sauce); Salt, to taste; Black pepper, to taste

Ever crave something cozy yet indulgent, like a creamy pasta bowl that hugs your taste buds with garlicky richness? Meet your new weeknight favorite: Garlic Butter Chicken Balls with Creamy Parmesan Pasta. It combines the savory power of golden seared chicken meatballs with the irresistible comfort of velvety cheese-coated noodles.

Each bite delivers buttery garlic notes wrapped in a luscious parmesan cream that clings to every strand of pasta. It’s perfect for both family dinners and impressing guests without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s freezer-friendly and easily customizable, making it a must-add to your meal rotation.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To bring this mouthwatering dish to life, you only need a few kitchen essentials, but each plays a crucial role:

Mixing Bowls: For combining your chicken mixture with seasonings, herbs, and cheese. Having two sizes helps with organizing dry and wet components.

Non-stick Skillet or Cast-Iron Pan: Essential for getting that perfect golden crust on the chicken balls. A good sear locks in the moisture and adds flavor depth.

Tongs or Spatula: Helps gently flip the meatballs while cooking to avoid breaking their shape.

Medium Pot: For boiling the pasta to al dente perfection. Don’t forget to salt your water—it enhances the final flavor.

Whisk and Saucepan: Needed for building the creamy parmesan sauce without lumps. A whisk ensures everything blends smoothly.

Meat Thermometer (Optional): Useful to ensure the chicken is cooked through (165°F), especially if making larger meatballs.

With these tools prepped, you’re on your way to a satisfying pasta dish that delivers comfort and gourmet vibes all in one bowl.

Ingredients for the Garlic Butter Chicken Balls with Creamy Parmesan Pasta

Ground Chicken: Lean and mild, perfect for absorbing all those garlic and herb flavors.

Garlic (minced): The foundation of the dish’s rich aroma and buttery flavor.

Egg: Helps bind the meatballs and gives them a tender texture.

Panko Breadcrumbs: Light and crispy, these breadcrumbs keep the chicken balls airy without drying them out.

Parmesan Cheese (grated): Infused into both the meatballs and the sauce for a double dose of umami.

Fresh Parsley: Brings freshness and a slight peppery bite to balance the creamy profile.

Butter: Key for sautéing garlic and coating the chicken balls with a glossy, flavorful finish.

Olive Oil: Adds richness and helps achieve that perfect pan-sear.

Heavy Cream: The base of the velvety parmesan sauce that wraps around the pasta.

Fettuccine or Tagliatelle: Wide, flat noodles that catch every bit of that creamy sauce.

Salt & Pepper: For essential seasoning at each step.

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

Step 1: Mix and Shape the Chicken Balls

In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, minced garlic, egg, breadcrumbs, grated parmesan, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined, then roll into 1.5-inch balls.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken Balls

Heat a skillet with butter and olive oil. Sear the chicken balls on all sides until golden brown. Cook in batches if needed. Once browned, cover and cook for another 5–7 minutes until cooked through.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

Meanwhile, bring a pot of salted water to boil. Cook your fettuccine or tagliatelle until al dente, then reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce

In a saucepan, melt butter and sauté garlic until fragrant. Pour in heavy cream and whisk until warm. Stir in parmesan cheese gradually and whisk until smooth. Add salt and pepper to taste. If too thick, use reserved pasta water to loosen.

Step 5: Assemble the Dish

Toss cooked pasta in the creamy parmesan sauce until evenly coated. Plate the pasta and top with the golden chicken balls. Garnish with more chopped parsley and freshly cracked black pepper.

How to Serve and Store This Dish

Serve this dish hot, with extra grated parmesan and a sprinkle of parsley for that final flourish. Pair it with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables to balance the richness. A side of garlic bread never hurts either!

For leftovers, let everything cool completely before transferring to airtight containers. Store in the fridge for up to 4 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to bring the sauce back to life. This recipe also freezes beautifully—just freeze the meatballs and pasta separately for best texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute and holds flavors well, though it may be slightly leaner.

What pasta shape works best if I don’t have fettuccine?

Linguine, tagliatelle, or even penne will hold the creamy sauce nicely.

Can I make the chicken balls ahead of time?

Yes, you can form them up to a day in advance and store them covered in the fridge. You can also freeze them raw and cook straight from frozen—just adjust cooking time.

How can I make it spicier?

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce or a dash of hot sauce into the meatball mix for extra heat.

Is there a dairy-free alternative for the sauce?

You can use full-fat coconut milk or a plant-based cream, though the flavor will shift slightly.

Can I bake the chicken balls instead?

Yes, bake at 400°F for 20-25 minutes until golden and cooked through. You may lose a bit of the crisp sear, but they’ll still taste great.

Want More Chicken Pasta Ideas?

If this dish hits the spot, you might enjoy exploring more chicken and creamy pasta combinations.

Check out the Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta for a spicy twist on creamy comfort, or the Buffalo Chicken Lasagna Recipe if you love layers of bold flavor and cheesy goodness.

For cozy one-pan dishes, you can’t go wrong with the Easy Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe or the One Pot Spicy BBQ Chicken Cheeseburger Pasta.

And if you’re a fan of rich sauces, the Chicken Mushroom Stroganoff brings creaminess with an earthy depth that pairs beautifully with any pasta.