Garlic Butter Chicken Balls Recipe

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Golden, juicy, and blanketed in a luscious garlic butter sauce, these Chicken Balls are the weeknight dinner hero you didn’t know you needed. They’re crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and taste like pure comfort when tossed over a nest of creamy pasta. Each bite bursts with garlicky richness and subtle herbs that make it hard to stop at just one.

This recipe isn’t just crowd-pleasing; it’s kitchen therapy. Whether you’re making dinner for the family or meal-prepping for the week, these Garlic Butter Chicken Balls are effortlessly versatile. Serve them over spaghetti, tuck them into sliders, or set them out as bite-sized appetizers. However you plate them, one thing’s certain—they’ll disappear fast.

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Ingredients for this Garlic Butter Chicken Balls Recipe

For the Chicken Balls:

• 1 lb ground chicken
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko preferred for extra crisp)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 egg
• 1/4 cup chopped parsley or chives
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp olive oil (for frying)

For the Garlic Butter Sauce:

• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1/4 cup chicken broth or heavy cream
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped parsley for garnish

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Step 1: Mix the Chicken Ball Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, egg, herbs, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined—avoid overmixing to keep the texture tender.

Step 2: Shape and Sear

Scoop about 1.5 tablespoons of the mixture and roll into balls using your hands. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sear the chicken balls in batches, turning until browned on all sides, about 6-8 minutes total. They don’t have to be fully cooked through yet.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

In the same skillet (wipe excess oil if needed), melt the butter. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Pour in the broth or cream, and simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened. Season with salt and pepper.

Step 4: Simmer the Chicken Balls

Return the browned chicken balls to the skillet. Spoon some sauce over them, then cover and let simmer for another 6-8 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Garnish with extra parsley and cracked black pepper. These go beautifully over pasta, rice, or even tucked into sandwich rolls for a cozy, melty bite.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?

Yes! Ground turkey works well and still pairs beautifully with the garlic butter sauce.

What pasta works best with these chicken balls?

Spaghetti or fettuccine is a classic choice, but garlic butter chicken balls also shine over creamy mashed potatoes or herbed rice.

Can I bake the chicken balls instead of frying?

Absolutely. Place them on a lined baking sheet and bake at 400°F for 18-20 minutes or until golden and cooked through.

Can I make these ahead?

Yes, prep the chicken balls and refrigerate uncooked for up to 24 hours. Cook when ready, or freeze for longer storage.

How spicy is the garlic butter sauce?

The red pepper flakes add mild heat. Omit them for a milder version or increase for more kick.

Do I need to use cream in the sauce?

Cream adds richness, but chicken broth or even milk can be substituted for a lighter take.

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