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Garlic Butter Chicken Meatballs & Noodles Recipe

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4.4 from 50 reviews

This Garlic Butter Chicken Meatballs & Noodles recipe combines tender, flavorful chicken meatballs with garlic-toasted noodles simmered in savory chicken stock. Enhanced with fresh herbs and parmesan cheese, this comforting one-pan dish is perfect for a hearty weeknight dinner that comes together in just 45 minutes.

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.
  • Author: Madelynn
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American