Garlic Butter Chicken Balls with Easy Creamy Pasta

Why Make This Recipe

Garlic Butter Chicken Balls with Easy Creamy Pasta is a delightful dish that combines the rich flavors of garlic and butter with tender ground chicken. This recipe is perfect for a family dinner or a gathering of friends. What makes it even better is how simple it is to prepare. With a handful of ingredients and a straightforward cooking process, you can create a satisfying and indulgent meal. The combination of juicy chicken balls and creamy pasta sauce is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! Whether you’re an experienced cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this dish is easy to follow and delivers delicious results every time.

How to Make Garlic Butter Chicken Balls with Easy Creamy Pasta

Making Garlic Butter Chicken Balls with Easy Creamy Pasta is a simple process that anyone can do. Below, we break down the steps for you to follow, so you can enjoy a tasty meal quickly!

Ingredients

To make Garlic Butter Chicken Balls with Easy Creamy Pasta, you’ll need:

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

Directions

Now, let’s step through the cooking process:

Step 1: Make the Chicken Balls

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, beaten egg, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix these ingredients thoroughly until everything is well combined. With your hands, form the mixture into small balls, about the size of a golf ball. You should get around 15 to 20 chicken balls, depending on the size you make them.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken Balls

In a skillet over medium heat, add 2 tablespoons of butter. Once the butter is melted and bubbling, carefully place the chicken balls into the skillet. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Make sure the internal temperature of the chicken balls reaches 165°F (75°C). Once cooked, remove the chicken balls from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, melt another 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add in the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until it becomes fragrant (but be careful not to burn it!). Next, pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Stir everything together. Then, add the grated Parmesan cheese to the mixture. Keep stirring until the sauce thickens slightly, about 3-4 minutes. Taste the sauce and add salt and black pepper as needed.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Once your pasta is cooked according to package instructions, drain it well and add it to the skillet with the creamy sauce. Toss the spaghetti or linguine in the sauce until it is fully coated. Finally, carefully add the chicken balls and gently mix them into the pasta, ensuring that everything is well combined. It’s ready to serve warm!

How to Serve Garlic Butter Chicken Balls with Easy Creamy Pasta

When it comes to serving Garlic Butter Chicken Balls with Easy Creamy Pasta, presentation can enhance the meal. Here are a few tips:

1. Plating: Serve the pasta on a large platter or individual bowls. Place the chicken balls on top of the pasta, making them the star of the dish.

2. Garnishing: For a touch of color and added flavor, consider garnishing your dish with extra grated Parmesan cheese or a sprinkle of fresh herbs, like parsley or basil.

3. Side Dishes: This dish pairs well with a fresh salad or a side of crusty garlic bread, completing the meal beautifully.

4. Enjoy Warm: Make sure to serve the dish warm. The creamy sauce is much more enjoyable when it’s still hot.

5. Wine Pairing: If you’d like to drink wine with your meal, a light white wine or even a crisp rosé can complement the flavors well.

How to Store Garlic Butter Chicken Balls with Easy Creamy Pasta

Storing leftover Garlic Butter Chicken Balls with Easy Creamy Pasta is easy! Here are the steps to ensure your leftovers taste great:

1. Cool Down: Allow the dish to cool down at room temperature for about 20-30 minutes after cooking.

2. Storage Container: Transfer it into an airtight container. If you have a lot of leftovers, you might want to separate the chicken balls from the pasta to keep everything fresh.

3. Refrigeration: Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

4. Freezing (Optional): If you want to keep the dish longer, you can freeze it. For best results, freeze the chicken balls and pasta separately. Use freezer-safe containers or bags, and label them with the date.

5. Thawing and Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. You might want to add a splash of heavy cream or chicken broth when reheating the sauce to bring back its creamy texture.

Tips to Make Garlic Butter Chicken Balls with Easy Creamy Pasta

Here are some handy tips to elevate this recipe:

1. Ground Meat Options: While this recipe uses ground chicken, you can substitute it with ground turkey, beef, or pork if you prefer. Each will impart a different flavor.

2. Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh garlic for the best flavor. Freshly grated Parmesan cheese also yields a better taste compared to pre-packaged options.

3. Consistent Ball Size: Keep the size of your chicken balls consistent for even cooking. Using a cookie scoop can help with this.

4. Don’t Skip Seasoning: The spices and seasonings used in the meat mixture are essential for flavor, so do not skip or skimp on them.

5. Pasta Choice: Although spaghetti and linguine work great, feel free to use your favorite pasta shape—penne, fusilli, or fettuccine all pair wonderfully with this dish.

6. Cream Sauce Variations: If you want to add more depth to the sauce, consider adding nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor or a splash of white wine before adding cream.

Variation

This recipe is quite versatile! Here are a few variations to experiment with:

• Vegetarian Option: Swap ground chicken for a mixture of finely chopped mushrooms, zucchini, and spinach for a vegetarian version. Use plant-based butter and cream to keep it vegetarian.

• Spicy Twist: Add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the creamy sauce for an extra kick.

• Cheesy Blend: Mix different types of cheeses like mozzarella or fontina into the sauce for added richness.

• Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like thyme, oregano, or rosemary into the chicken mixture for more flavor.

• Add Veggies: Mix in steamed broccoli, peas, or spinach into the pasta for extra nutrition.

FAQs

1. Can I make the chicken balls ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the chicken balls in advance, shape them, and store them in the fridge for up to a day. You can also freeze them and cook straight from frozen, just adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

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

The chicken balls should be golden brown on the outside and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Using an instant-read meat thermometer can help you confirm this.

3. What can I serve with Garlic Butter Chicken Balls?

This dish goes well with a fresh salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables. You could also serve a light soup as a starter for a complete meal.

4. Can I use a different type of cream?

Yes, you can use half-and-half or evaporated milk for a lighter sauce, but keep in mind that the texture and richness will change.

5. How can I make the pasta gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pasta instead of regular spaghetti or linguine. Many varieties are widely available these days, so you can enjoy this dish without gluten.

6. Can I skip the butter?

While butter adds richness to the dish, you can substitute it with olive oil or a vegan butter alternative if you want to reduce the saturated fat or if you’re looking for a healthier option.

With this straightforward and delicious recipe for Garlic Butter Chicken Balls with Easy Creamy Pasta, you have all the tools you need to impress your family and friends. With a little effort and the right ingredients, you can create a memorable meal that everyone will love! Enjoy cooking and, more importantly, enjoy your meal!

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