# Garlic Butter Chicken Meatballs: A Savory and Comforting Dish
If you’re looking for a comforting, flavorful dish that’s perfect for any day of the week, **Garlic Butter Chicken Meatballs** are a fantastic choice. These tender meatballs are infused with the delicious taste of garlic and cooked in a buttery sauce that elevates the humble meatball to a whole new level. Simple to make and irresistibly tasty, this dish is sure to become a go-to favorite for busy weeknights or cozy dinners.
Let’s explore how to prepare this mouthwatering dish step by step, along with some tips and variations to make it your own.
## Why You’ll Love These Garlic Butter Chicken Meatballs
This recipe is great because it’s:
– **Quick and easy**: With a few basic ingredients, you can whip up a delicious meal in no time.
– **Packed with flavor**: The combination of garlic, butter, and tender chicken creates a rich and savory taste.
– **Versatile**: You can serve these meatballs over pasta, rice, or even with a side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
– **Kid-friendly**: The mild flavor of the chicken meatballs makes this dish a hit with both kids and adults.
## Ingredients
For this delicious garlic butter chicken meatball recipe, you will need:
### For the Meatballs:
– **1 pound ground chicken**
– **1/3 cup breadcrumbs** (plain or seasoned)
– **1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese**
– **1 large egg**
– **2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped** (plus extra for garnish)
– **2-3 cloves garlic, minced**
– **1/2 teaspoon salt**
– **1/4 teaspoon black pepper**
– **1/4 teaspoon onion powder**
– **1 tablespoon olive oil** (for frying)
### For the Garlic Butter Sauce:
– **4 tablespoons unsalted butter**
– **3-4 cloves garlic, minced**
– **1/4 cup chicken broth or white wine**
– **Juice of half a lemon**
– **1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes** (optional, for a little heat)
– **Salt and pepper to taste**
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## Instructions
### Step 1: Make the Meatballs
1. **In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, chopped parsley, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and onion powder.** Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
2. **Form the mixture into small meatballs** (about 1-1.5 inches in diameter). You should get approximately 16-20 meatballs.
3. **Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.** Add the meatballs in a single layer and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. You may need to do this in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.
4. **Transfer the cooked meatballs to a plate** and set them aside.
### Step 2: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
1. **In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.**
2. **Add the minced garlic** and sauté for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, until the garlic is fragrant but not browned.
3. **Pour in the chicken broth or white wine** and stir, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
4. **Add the lemon juice, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper** to the sauce, and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes.
### Step 3: Combine the Meatballs and Sauce
1. **Return the meatballs to the skillet**, stirring gently to coat them in the garlic butter sauce.
2. **Simmer for 5-7 minutes** to let the flavors meld together and the meatballs heat through.
### Step 4: Garnish and Serve
1. **Garnish with extra chopped parsley** for a fresh, vibrant touch.
2. **Serve immediately**, either over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread on the side to soak up the delicious sauce.
## Tips for Making the Best Garlic Butter Chicken Meatballs
– **Use freshly minced garlic** for the best flavor. Pre-minced garlic can sometimes have a less intense flavor.
– **Don’t overwork the meat mixture** when forming the meatballs. This helps keep them tender and not too dense.
– **Add a splash of heavy cream** or a dollop of sour cream to the sauce for an extra creamy texture.
– **Make ahead**: You can prepare the meatballs in advance and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before cooking.
## Variations to Try
This recipe is highly adaptable, and you can customize it to suit your tastes. Here are a few variations you might enjoy:
### 1. **Cheesy Garlic Butter Meatballs**
– Add a small cube of mozzarella cheese to the center of each meatball for a gooey surprise.
### 2. **Herbed Garlic Butter Chicken Meatballs**
– Mix additional herbs, such as thyme or rosemary, into the meatball mixture or sauce for more depth of flavor.
### 3. **Spicy Garlic Butter Meatballs**
– Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for an extra kick.
### 4. **Garlic Butter Meatballs with a Creamy Twist**
– Stir in a little cream cheese or heavy cream into the sauce for a thicker, creamier sauce.
## Serving Suggestions
Garlic Butter Chicken Meatballs are incredibly versatile, and there are many ways to enjoy them:
– **Over Pasta**: Toss with your favorite pasta for a comforting meal.
– **With Rice or Mashed Potatoes**: The sauce pairs beautifully with these sides, soaking up the flavors.
– **On Toasted Bread**: Serve the meatballs on toasted baguette slices for a tasty appetizer.
– **As a Party Dish**: Serve them on a platter with toothpicks for an easy party appetizer.
## Why This Dish is a Winner
The combination of juicy chicken meatballs with a buttery, garlicky sauce is simply irresistible. The dish is simple to make, yet it feels special enough for a dinner party. Plus, the ingredients are easy to find, and the recipe can be adapted to suit different tastes and dietary preferences.
## Conclusion
**Garlic Butter Chicken Meatballs** are a delicious, comforting dish that will quickly become a favorite in your household. With tender meatballs and a rich, flavorful sauce, this recipe is perfect for satisfying cravings without spending hours in the kitchen. Give it a try and savor the delightful combination of garlic, butter, and juicy chicken in every bite!
Enjoy this dish with your favorite sides, and don’t forget to share it with family and friends—it’s sure to be a hit!
