Garlic Butter Chicken Balls Recipe – Easy Creamy Pasta

Welcome to Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta Bliss!

If you answered yes to any of those delicious questions, then you’re in for a treat! This Garlic Butter Chicken Balls with Creamy Parmesan Pasta recipe is designed to deliver maximum flavor with minimum stress. Imagine combining the savory, juicy goodness of perfectly seasoned chicken balls with a rich, luscious Parmesan sauce, all tossed with your favorite pasta. It’s the kind of meal that brings comfort and joy to any table, whether it’s a cozy night in, a lively family dinner, or even the star of your meal prep sessions. We’ve streamlined the process so you can achieve restaurant-quality results in your own kitchen. Get ready to dive into a dish that’s as satisfyingly creamy as it is addictively flavorful. Let’s get cooking!

Mouthwatering Ingredients for Garlic Butter Chicken Balls & Creamy Pasta

To create this symphony of flavors, you’ll need these key players. We’ve also included some suggestions for substitutions to ensure this recipe is accessible and adaptable for everyone!

For the Garlic Butter Chicken Balls:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces: The tender foundation for our flavor bombs. Chicken thighs will be juicier.
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour: For coating and creating a slight crisp. Gluten-free all-purpose blend works too.
• 1 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste: Essential for bringing out the chicken’s natural flavors.
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, plus more to taste: A classic pairing with chicken for a subtle kick.
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional, for color and mild smoky notes): Adds a beautiful hue and a whisper of smokiness. Smoked paprika is great here.
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter: The queen of flavor for sautéing. Olive oil can be used in a pinch, but butter is key for that garlic butter profile.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced: The aromatic star! Freshly minced offers the best pungent flavor.

For the Creamy Parmesan Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: The base for our silky sauce.
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (or cornstarch for gluten-free): To thicken our sauce into a velvety consistency.
• 2 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred): Adds depth and liquid for the sauce base. Vegetable broth works for a vegetarian twist.
• 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for lighter option): The secret to ultimate creaminess. Coconut milk can be a dairy-free alternative, though flavor will change.
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for serving): Sharp, nutty, and utterly delicious. Pecorino Romano is a bolder option.
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional): A fragrant blend of herbs that complements chicken and pasta beautifully.
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste: To perfectly balance and enhance all the flavors.

For the Pasta:

• 8-10 ounces pasta of your choice (fettuccine, linguine, penne, rotini): Choose a pasta that holds sauce well. Fresh pasta cooks faster!
• Salt for pasta water: Crucial for seasoning the pasta itself.

Your Culinary Timeline: Prep, Cook, and Enjoy!

This recipe is wonderfully efficient, coming in at an average of 40 minutes from start to finish. This is significantly faster than many elaborate chicken and pasta dishes, making it perfect for busy weeknights. The prep is straightforward, and the cooking process is designed for quick assembly.

Crafting Your Garlic Butter Chicken Balls & Creamy Pasta: Step-by-Step

Step 1: Get Your Chicken Balls Ready

First things first, let’s get our chicken ready. If you haven’t already, chop your boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs into bite-sized pieces, about 1-inch cubes. In a medium bowl, combine the flour, salt, pepper, and paprika (if using). Toss the chicken pieces in this seasoned flour mixture until they are evenly coated. This coating is crucial for getting a lovely sear and helping to thicken the sauce later.

Step 2: Sear Those Golden Chicken Balls

Grab a large skillet or frying pan and melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Once the butter is shimmering and starting to foam, carefully add the floured chicken balls in a single layer. Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary to ensure they brown properly. Sear the chicken for about 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and mostly cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate. Don’t wipe out the skillet just yet – those browned bits are pure flavor!

Step 3: Begin the Creamy Parmesan Dream

Reduce the skillet heat to medium. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the same skillet. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30-60 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic! Then, sprinkle in the 1/4 cup of flour (or cornstarch) and whisk it into the butter and garlic mixture, cooking for about 1 minute to cook out the raw flour taste. This creates a roux, which will thicken our sauce.

Step 4: Thicken the Sauce with a Flourish

Slowly whisk in the chicken broth, a little at a time, making sure to smooth out any lumps. Once all the broth is incorporated, continue to whisk and let the sauce simmer gently for about 3-5 minutes, or until it begins to thicken to a consistency that coats the back of a spoon. This is where the magic starts to happen!

Step 5: The Parmesan & Seasoning Magic

Reduce the heat to low. Pour in the heavy cream and stir until well combined. Now, gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until it melts smoothly into the sauce. Stir in the Italian seasoning, if using. Taste the sauce and adjust with salt and pepper as needed. The sauce should be rich, creamy, and wonderfully cheesy. If it’s too thick, you can add a splash more broth or cream; if too thin, let it simmer gently for a few more minutes (without boiling vigorously).

Step 6: Perfectly Cook Your Pasta

While the sauce is coming together, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add your chosen pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente (tender but still firm to the bite). Before draining, reserve about 1 cup of the starchy pasta water. Drain the pasta well.

Step 7: Unite the Flavors and Serve

Return the seared chicken balls to the skillet with the creamy Parmesan sauce. Stir gently to coat the chicken. Add the drained pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together until the pasta and chicken are beautifully coated in the luscious sauce. If the sauce seems a little thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up to your desired consistency. Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh parsley or black pepper, if desired. Enjoy your homemade masterpiece!

Nutritional Snapshot: Deliciously Balanced

While exact nutritional values can vary based on ingredients and portion sizes, a typical serving of this Garlic Butter Chicken Balls with Creamy Parmesan Pasta is rich in protein and healthy fats, offering a satisfying and energy-boosting meal. Expect a serving to contain approximately:

• Calories: 500-700 kcal
• Protein: 30-40g
• Fat: 25-40g
• Carbohydrates: 30-50g

Please note: This is an estimate. For precise figures, use a nutritional calculator with your specific ingredients.

Healthier Twists to Your Creamy Chicken Pasta

Transform this indulgent dish into a lighter but still delicious meal with these simple swaps:

• Pasta: Opt for whole wheat pasta, brown rice pasta, or even spiralized zucchini noodles (zoodles) for a low-carb option.
• Cream: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, or a lighter coconut milk (full-fat will be creamier, but light works). You can also reduce the amount of cream and use a bit more chicken broth.
• Chicken: Trim any visible fat from chicken thighs if using them, or ensure chicken breasts are lean. For a vegetarian version, use firm tofu or chickpeas.
• Cheese: Use a reduced-fat Parmesan cheese, or simply use a bit less; the flavor is still impactful.
• Fats: Use olive oil for sautéing chicken and making the roux instead of butter, and be mindful of the amount used.
• Add Veggies: Bulk up the dish with steamed broccoli, spinach, peas, or sautéed mushrooms for added fiber and nutrients.

Elevating Your Serving Experience

Serve this decadent pasta hot for the best creamy texture. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives adds a burst of color and freshness. A side of crusty bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce. For a more complete meal, consider a simple side salad with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the pasta.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

• Overcrowding the Pan: This leads to steamed, rather than seared, chicken. Brown it in batches for that crucial golden crust.
• Burning Garlic: Garlic cooks very quickly. Add it at the end of sautéing the roux ingredients, or as directed, and be attentive.
• Sauce Too Thin/Thick: Adjust consistency with reserved pasta water (to loosen) or continued gentle simmering (to thicken). Avoid boiling vigorously once cream is added.
• Not Salting Pasta Water: This is the primary way to season pasta. Make your pasta water taste like the sea!
• Adding Cooked Pasta to Cold Sauce: Ensure your sauce is warm and ready when your al dente pasta is drained.

Savoring Leftovers: Smart Storing Tips

Allow the pasta to cool completely before storing. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk, cream, or chicken broth to revive the sauce’s creaminess. Microwaving is also an option, but stir frequently to prevent hot spots and ensure even heating.

Frequently Asked Questions

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