Description

Golden garlic butter chicken balls nestled in creamy Parmesan pasta make for the ultimate comfort meal. This easy dinner recipe combines juicy ground chicken, fresh garlic, and rich Parmesan in every bite. Perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or cozy weekend comfort food. Great choice for anyone looking for quick dinner ideas, creamy pasta recipes, or high-protein chicken meals.

Ingredients

1 lb ground chicken

2 garlic cloves, minced

1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/4 cup breadcrumbs

1 large egg

1 tablespoon chopped parsley

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

2 tablespoons butter (for searing)

8 oz tagliatelle or fettuccine pasta

2 tablespoons butter (for sauce)

2 garlic cloves, minced (for sauce)

1 cup heavy cream

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for sauce)

Reserved pasta water as needed

Extra chopped parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, garlic, Parmesan, breadcrumbs, egg, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.

2. Shape into 16 small chicken balls, about 1 tablespoon each.

3. In a skillet, melt 2 tablespoons butter over medium heat. Sear chicken balls in batches for 5–7 minutes until golden and cooked through. Set aside.

4. Boil pasta in salted water according to package directions. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain.

5. In the same skillet, melt another 2 tablespoons butter. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute. Stir in cream and bring to a simmer.

6. Whisk in Parmesan until smooth. Thin with pasta water if needed.

7. Add pasta and chicken balls to sauce. Toss to coat evenly.

8. Serve warm, garnished with parsley and more Parmesan.

Notes

Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best melt and flavor.

Don’t overmix the chicken to keep meatballs tender.

Add a splash of cream or milk when reheating leftovers to keep the sauce smooth.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 4 servings
Calories: 620
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 510mg
Fat: 37g
Saturated Fat: 20g
Unsaturated Fat: 15g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 38g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 35g
Cholesterol: 155mg

Keywords: creamy chicken pasta, garlic butter chicken, parmesan pasta