Chicken cheese balls recipe sinking your teeth into a flawlessly crisp coating, only to discover a delightful explosion of cheesy richness and succulent chicken within.
It’s a taste sensation that beckons you back for another bite every single time. What sets these chicken cheese balls apart is their incredible versatility.
Whether as an appetizer, a side dish, or the main attraction in a sandwich or salad, they never fail to impress.
Today, I’m excited to share with you one of my all-time favorite recipes that never fails to impress – Chicken Cheese Balls Recipe.
These golden, crispy delights are not only addictive but also incredibly easy to make. These bite-sized delights are bursting with savory chicken flavor and a hidden pocket of melty cheese, guaranteed to disappear faster than you can say “game on!”
Why This Recipe is the Best?
Let me tell you, this recipe isn’t just another chicken cheese ball contender. It’s been perfected through countless batches (and happy taste testers) to achieve the ideal balance.
A crispy, golden brown exterior encasing a moist, flavorful chicken interior, all culminating in a molten cheese surprise with every single bite.
Here’s How To Prepare And What You’ll Need?
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: American
Yield: 25 balls
Equipment Needed:
- Mixing bowls (2)
- Spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Parchment paper
- Shallow frying pan or dutch oven
- Slotted spoon
Ingredients:
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella work well)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley (or 1 tablespoon dried parsley)
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- Oil, for frying
How to Make Chicken Cheese Balls Recipe?
1. Prepare the Chicken Mixture:
In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, shredded cheese, chopped onion, minced garlic, parsley, paprika, black pepper, and salt. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
2. Shape the Balls:
Take small portions of the chicken mixture and shape them into small balls, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Make sure to compact the mixture well so the balls hold their shape.
3. Coat the Balls:
Set up a breading station with three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten egg, and one with breadcrumbs.
Roll each chicken ball in the flour, then dip it into the beaten egg, and finally coat it thoroughly with breadcrumbs. Make sure each ball is evenly coated.
4. Chill the Balls:
Place the coated chicken cheese balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and chill them in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. Chilling helps the balls hold their shape while frying.
5. Fry the Balls:
Heat oil in a deep fryer or a heavy-bottomed pot to 350°F (175°C).
Carefully add the chilled chicken cheese balls to the hot oil in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pot. Fry them for 3-4 minutes or until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside.
6. Drain and Serve:
Use a slotted spoon to remove the fried chicken cheese balls from the oil and transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
Serve the chicken cheese balls hot with your favorite dipping sauce, such as marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or sweet chili sauce.
Special Note:
These chicken cheese balls are best enjoyed fresh and hot, but you can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Simply reheat them in the oven for a few minutes to restore their crispiness.
Nutrition Value Chicken Cheese Balls Recipe
| Nutrition | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250 |
| Fat | 15g |
| Saturated Fat | 5g |
| Cholesterol | 70mg |
| Sodium | 400mg |
| Carbohydrates | 10g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Protein | 20g |
Serving Suggestions
1. Dipping Delight:
Pair these crispy chicken cheese balls with a variety of dipping sauces for an explosion of flavors. Try classic marinara sauce for an Italian twist, tangy barbecue sauce for a smoky flavor, or creamy ranch dressing for a cool contrast.
2. Salad Sidekick:
Transform your chicken cheese balls into a complete meal by serving them alongside a fresh salad. The crispiness of the balls contrasts beautifully with the crisp greens and veggies.
Consider a simple mixed green salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a balsamic vinaigrette for a refreshing combination.
3. Party Platter Perfection:
Impress your guests by creating a stunning party platter featuring these irresistible chicken cheese balls. Arrange them on a large serving tray with a variety of dipping sauces and garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of color.
4. Sandwich Sensation:
Take your sandwich game to the next level by adding chicken cheese balls as a filling. Slice them in half and place them between two slices of crusty bread or a soft burger bun.
Add some lettuce, tomato, and your favorite condiments for a mouthwatering sandwich experience.
5. Breakfast Boost:
Who says chicken cheese balls are only for lunch or dinner? Turn them into a hearty breakfast by serving them alongside scrambled eggs and toast.
The combination of protein-packed balls with creamy eggs and crispy toast is a surefire way to start your day right.
Hot Tips For This Recipe
1. Customize Your Fillings: Feel free to experiment with different fillings. Add finely chopped vegetables like spinach or mushrooms, or incorporate herbs like rosemary or thyme for added flavor.
2. Use Panko Breadcrumbs: For an extra crispy coating, use Panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs. They create a lighter and crunchier texture.
3. Freeze for Later: You can freeze uncooked chicken cheese balls for later. Arrange them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag or container. When ready to cook, fry them straight from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time.
4. Air Fryer Option: If you prefer a healthier alternative to frying, you can also cook chicken cheese balls in an air fryer. Simply preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and cook the balls for about 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
5. Double-Coat for Extra Crispiness: For an even crispier coating, double-coat the chicken cheese balls by dipping them back into the beaten eggs and breadcrumbs before frying.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Can I use other types of meat besides chicken?
Absolutely! You can substitute chicken with ground turkey, beef, or even pork for different flavor variations.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken cheese balls ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before frying. Alternatively, you can freeze them for longer storage.
Can I bake the chicken cheese balls instead of frying them?
Yes, you can bake the chicken cheese balls in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. Be sure to spray or brush them with oil to help them brown evenly.
What can I serve with chicken cheese balls?
Chicken cheese balls are delicious on their own or served with various dipping sauces like marinara, ranch, or honey mustard. You can also pair them with a side salad or some crispy fries for a complete meal.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes, you can use gluten-free breadcrumbs to coat the chicken cheese balls for a gluten-free version of this recipe.
How do I know when the chicken cheese balls are cooked through?
The chicken cheese balls are cooked through when they are golden brown on the outside and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Conclusion
Chicken Cheese Balls Recipe are a true crowd-pleaser and a must-have addition to your recipe repertoire.
With their crispy exterior, gooey cheese center, and flavorful chicken filling, they are sure to be a hit at any gathering or simply as a treat for yourself.
With just a handful of simple ingredients and a few easy steps, you can create these irresistible bites of goodness in your own kitchen.
And the best part? You can customize them to your liking, adding your favorite herbs, spices, or cheeses to make them truly your own.
So what are you waiting for? Get cooking and indulge in the deliciousness of Chicken Cheese Balls. Your taste buds will thank you!
Chicken Cheese Balls Recipe
Equipment
- Mixing bowls (2)
- Spoon
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Parchment paper
- Shallow frying pan or dutch oven
- Slotted spoon
Ingredients
- 1 cup cooked chicken shredded
- 1 cup shredded cheese cheddar or mozzarella work well
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley or 1 tablespoon dried parsley
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 egg beaten
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- Oil for frying
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken Mixture:
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, shredded cheese, chopped onion, minced garlic, parsley, paprika, black pepper, and salt. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
Shape the Balls:
- Take small portions of the chicken mixture and shape them into small balls, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Make sure to compact the mixture well so the balls hold their shape.
Coat the Balls:
- Set up a breading station with three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten egg, and one with breadcrumbs.
- Roll each chicken ball in the flour, then dip it into the beaten egg, and finally coat it thoroughly with breadcrumbs. Make sure each ball is evenly coated.
Chill the Balls:
- Place the coated chicken cheese balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and chill them in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. Chilling helps the balls hold their shape while frying.
Fry the Balls:
- Heat oil in a deep fryer or a heavy-bottomed pot to 350°F (175°C).
- Carefully add the chilled chicken cheese balls to the hot oil in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pot. Fry them for 3-4 minutes or until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside.
Drain and Serve:
- Use a slotted spoon to remove the fried chicken cheese balls from the oil and transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
- Serve the chicken cheese balls hot with your favorite dipping sauce, such as marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or sweet chili sauce.
Notes
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