Garlic Butter Chicken Parmesan Pasta

Rich garlic butter chicken balls nestled in a bed of creamy Parmesan pasta make the kind of dinner dreams are made of when you crave comfort but want something a little special. Golden chicken balls soak up all that buttery garlic flavor and each bite of pasta is cloaked in a luxurious Parmesan sauce. This recipe comes together on the stovetop in just over half an hour which makes it perfect for busy evenings or a cozy weekend treat. My family gave it rave reviews the first time I made it and now it is one of our top requests during chilly months.

This was my go to dish for a last minute dinner party and every guest asked for seconds. The combination of garlic and Parmesan really is unbeatable for both kids and adults.

Ingredients

• Ground chicken: brings mild flavor and stays juicy in meatballs Look for organic or free range for the best taste
• Breadcrumbs: add structure and keep the chicken balls soft Use fresh or panko for lighter texture
• Parmesan cheese: sharpens flavor throughout Use freshly grated for maximum impact
• Egg: binds everything together and also adds moisture Free range eggs have brighter yolks
• Garlic cloves: give bold aroma and deep savory notes Choose plump firm cloves with no green shoots
• Italian seasoning: brings a whiff of herbal freshness Opt for blends with oregano thyme and basil
• Paprika: offers subtle sweetness and a kiss of color Use smoked paprika if you want a tiny smoky hint
• Salt: enhances all flavors Use kosher or sea salt for cleaner flavor
• Black pepper: gives gentle heat Cracked fresh is best
• Butter: is how you get that luscious sauce and golden sear Choose a good quality unsalted butter
• Heavy cream: creates a silky rich sauce Go for full fat for the creamiest result
• Chicken broth: balances the sauce so it is not too heavy Use low sodium to control salt
• Spaghetti or linguine: carries the sauce perfectly Choose dried for easy prep or fresh if you feel fancy

Step-by-Step Instructions

Make the Chicken Balls:

In a large bowl combine ground chicken breadcrumbs Parmesan egg minced garlic Italian seasoning paprika salt and black pepper Use your hands to mix until everything just comes together and forms a slightly sticky dough Shape into small even meatballs about one inch wide

Cook the Chicken Balls:

Heat butter in a deep skillet over medium heat When the butter foams add chicken balls in a single layer without crowding If needed work in batches Cook for six to eight minutes turning each ball so all sides become golden brown Check that the center is cooked through Remove cooked balls and set aside on a plate

Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce:

In the same skillet melt more butter over medium heat Add minced garlic and stir constantly for one minute until fragrant but not brown Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any golden bits in the pan Bring to a gentle simmer Reduce heat so you do not scorch the dairy Whisk in grated Parmesan little by little Stir constantly so the cheese melts and sauce thickens to a smooth texture Season with salt and black pepper as you taste

Combine and Serve:

Add cooked spaghetti or linguine directly into the skillet with the sauce Toss everything together so the sauce coats each strand If the sauce looks too thick add a splash of pasta water Gently return the chicken balls to the pan Spoon some sauce over them for extra coverage Serve hot with extra Parmesan or a sprinkle of parsley if you like

Pin

My favorite ingredient to use here is Parmesan freshly grated gives a nutty aroma that reminds me of holidays at my grandmother’s house where she always finished pasta dishes with a snowfall of cheese My kids love rolling the chicken balls together so the whole thing is a family project

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days For best texture reheat pasta and chicken balls separately and add a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce as it warms

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap ground turkey for chicken in the meatballs for a leaner version Try pecorino instead of Parmesan for a saltier sharper cheese Use gluten free breadcrumbs and pasta to make the whole dish gluten free

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a simple side salad to lighten things up A sprinkle of chili flakes on top brings gentle heat and chopped fresh herbs add color and freshness If you want to stretch the meal serve roasted broccoli or garlic bread on the side

Cultural Context

Chicken balls and creamy pasta are not traditional in Italy but this cozy fusion dish brings together the nostalgia of Italian American comfort food with modern convenience It is the kind of recipe you can make again and again always with a new twist

Recipe Questions & Answers

→ How do I ensure the chicken balls stay moist?

Mix ground chicken with breadcrumbs, egg, and Parmesan, then avoid overcooking. Sauté in butter until just golden and cooked through.

→ Can I substitute the pasta type?

Yes, feel free to use penne, fettuccine, or your preferred shape. Adjust the cooking time as needed.

→ What can I add for extra flavor?

Try a sprinkle of extra grated Parmesan, fresh herbs like parsley, or a pinch of red pepper flakes for mild heat.

→ Is it possible to make the sauce thicker?

Simply simmer the sauce longer until it reaches your desired consistency, stirring frequently to avoid burning.

→ Can I prepare components in advance?

Yes, you can shape chicken balls ahead of time and refrigerate them. Reheat gently in sauce before serving.

→ Are there vegetarian alternatives?

Swap ground chicken with plant-based mince and use vegetable broth in the sauce for a meatless meal.