Parmesan Garlic Spaghetti with Chicken Meatballs is a comforting and flavorful meal made with tender baked chicken meatballs and spaghetti tossed in a buttery garlic Parmesan sauce. This easy, family-friendly dinner is ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknights or special occasions.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

For the Baked Chicken Meatballs:

• 1 lb ground chicken
• 2 large eggs
• ¼ cup milk
• ⅔ cup panko breadcrumbs
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon cayenne powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

For the Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti:

• 8 ounces spaghetti pasta
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 6 tablespoons butter
• 5 cloves fresh garlic, minced
• 1 ½ teaspoons crushed red pepper flakes
• ⅔ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
• Juice of half a lemon

Directions

1. Prepare the Chicken Meatballs:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with foil or spray with non-stick spray.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine all meatball ingredients. Mix thoroughly with your hands.
3. Shape the mixture into 25–30 small meatballs and place on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until cooked through and golden brown.

2. Cook the Spaghetti:

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

3. Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce:

1. Heat olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn.
3. Stir in parsley, remaining butter, and Parmesan cheese. Add the cooked pasta and toss to coat.

4. Combine and Serve:

1. Add the baked chicken meatballs to the skillet with the pasta. Toss to combine.
2. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the dish and serve hot. Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese and parsley if desired.

Nutrients (Per Serving)

• Calories: 536
• Protein: 29 g
• Carbohydrates: 36 g
• Fat: 32 g
  • Saturated Fat: 15 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 645 mg
• Calcium: 300 mg

The Star of the Show: Baked Chicken Meatballs

The baked chicken meatballs are not only tender and juicy but also infused with a delightful blend of herbs and spices. The addition of Parmesan cheese and panko breadcrumbs gives the meatballs a light texture while adding a depth of flavor that complements the spaghetti beautifully. Baking the meatballs instead of frying keeps them moist on the inside with a golden-brown crust on the outside.

Key flavors like smoked paprika and cayenne give the meatballs a subtle kick, while garlic powder and onion powder create a savory base. Fresh parsley not only enhances the flavor but also adds a vibrant color to the dish, making it as visually appealing as it is delicious.

The Perfect Garlic Parmesan Sauce

The creamy garlic Parmesan sauce is where the magic happens. Made with butter, olive oil, and freshly minced garlic, it creates a luscious base for the spaghetti. The use of red pepper flakes adds a gentle heat that balances the richness of the butter and cheese. Lemon juice brings a touch of acidity, brightening the dish and cutting through the heaviness of the sauce.

The sauce is simple yet decadent, requiring only a few ingredients but delivering a powerful punch of flavor. Tossing the spaghetti in the warm sauce ensures every bite is coated with buttery, cheesy goodness.

Balancing Flavors and Textures

The combination of savory meatballs and creamy spaghetti creates a dish that’s rich and satisfying. The spaghetti provides a silky texture that contrasts beautifully with the tender meatballs. Fresh parsley adds a touch of freshness, while a sprinkle of additional Parmesan cheese enhances the overall flavor profile.

Lemon juice is the unsung hero of this dish, adding a zesty brightness that elevates the entire meal. This balance of flavors ensures that every forkful is packed with richness, freshness, and just the right amount of spice.

Why This Recipe is Perfect for Any Occasion

One of the best aspects of Parmesan Garlic Spaghetti with Chicken Meatballs is its versatility. It’s easy enough to whip up on a weeknight but also impressive enough to serve for a special dinner. The recipe’s straightforward steps make it accessible even for beginner cooks, while the sophisticated flavors appeal to more experienced palates.

It’s also a great option for meal prepping. The meatballs can be baked ahead of time and reheated when needed, making this dish a lifesaver for busy schedules. Additionally, it’s customizable—swap spaghetti for your favorite pasta or add roasted vegetables for a nutrient boost.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal. A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complements the buttery sauce and adds a refreshing touch. For a non-alcoholic option, sparkling water with a slice of lemon mirrors the citrusy notes in the dish.

Garnish the dish with extra parsley, grated Parmesan, or even a sprinkle of chili flakes for added flavor and a touch of heat.

Tips for Success

1. Don’t Overmix the Meatballs: Overmixing can result in dense meatballs. Combine the ingredients until just incorporated for the best texture.
2. Use Fresh Garlic: Freshly minced garlic is essential for a flavorful sauce. Avoid pre-minced garlic for this recipe.
3. Cook the Pasta Al Dente: Slightly undercooking the pasta ensures it doesn’t become mushy when tossed in the sauce.
4. Adjust Spice Levels: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce or omit the red pepper flakes and cayenne powder.
5. Make It Gluten-Free: Swap panko breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs and use gluten-free spaghetti for a celiac-friendly version.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish combines comfort and elegance in a single bowl. It’s hearty enough to satisfy big appetites yet light enough to avoid feeling heavy. The quick preparation time makes it a go-to meal for busy days, while its stunning presentation and rich flavors make it ideal for entertaining guests. Plus, the ingredients are simple and likely already in your pantry.

Conclusion

Parmesan Garlic Spaghetti with Chicken Meatballs is a dish that brings people together. Its combination of bold flavors, creamy sauce, and tender meatballs makes it a crowd-pleaser every time. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a dinner party, this recipe is guaranteed to impress. With its simple preparation, versatile ingredients, and delicious results, this meal will quickly earn a spot in your regular rotation. Enjoy every bite, and don’t forget to top it with extra Parmesan for the perfect finishing touch!