Ingredients
Meatballs
- 1 pound lean ground chicken (94% lean)
- Kosher salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup finely grated parmesan cheese, divided
- ½ cup seasoned breadcrumbs
- ⅔ cup chopped fresh herbs (parsley, basil, chives), divided
For Cooking
- 1 to 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
Noodles & Broth
- 2 ½ cups malfalda pasta noodles or rotini
- 4 cups chicken stock
Instructions
- Prepare the Meatballs: Place the ground chicken in a large bowl. Season with kosher salt and pepper. Add 2 minced garlic cloves, ½ cup grated parmesan, seasoned breadcrumbs, and half of the chopped fresh herbs. Mix gently to combine, then roll into 1-inch meatballs.
- Brown the Meatballs: Heat olive oil in a large nonstick skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the meatballs in a single layer and brown for 3 to 4 minutes. Flip and brown the other side for 2 to 3 minutes. Toss the meatballs gently by shaking the pan. Remove them with a slotted spoon and set aside on a plate.
- Toast the Noodles and Garlic: In the same skillet, add the butter. Once melted, add 4 minced garlic cloves and the pasta noodles. Stir continuously to coat the noodles in butter and garlic, cooking until the noodles get a little golden and toasty.
- Add Broth and Simmer: Pour in 4 cups of chicken stock, then nestle the browned meatballs back into the pan with the noodles and broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cover. Cook for 10 to 15 minutes, or until the noodles are fully cooked and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Finish the Dish: Stir in the remaining ½ cup parmesan cheese. Sprinkle the remaining ⅓ cup fresh herbs on top. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve: Serve the garlic butter chicken meatballs and noodles immediately, garnished with extra parmesan if desired for a rich, comforting meal.
Notes
- Use a large enough skillet or Dutch oven to accommodate both the meatballs and noodles comfortably.
- For best flavor, use fresh herbs like parsley, basil, and chives.
- To make the meatballs tender, avoid overmixing the ingredients.
- If you prefer gluten-free, substitute seasoned breadcrumbs and pasta with gluten-free alternatives.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American