Oh boy, do I have a treat for you today! If you’re anything like me, when it comes to snacking, you want something that’s not just tasty but also packs a little personality. Enter my Spicy Chicken Cheeseballs! These delightful bites are crispy on the outside and bursting with flavor on the inside, making them the perfect appetizer for get-togethers or just an evening binge-watching your favorite show.
I’ve always had a soft spot for finger foods; they remind me of childhood parties where we’d have too many snacks to count, and they always came with fun dips! I remember the first time I made these cheeseballs; I was experimenting with leftover chicken one Sunday afternoon. I added some spices and cheese, rolled them into little balls, and voila! Everyone went crazy for them at dinner. Now, they’ve become a staple in my home, and I’m so excited to share the recipe with you!
What’s in Spicy Chicken Cheeseballs?
Let’s break down these luscious little bites:
Cooked Chicken: Shredded chicken is the main event here. You can use rotisserie chicken for a quick shortcut or leftover grilled chicken for extra flavor.
Shredded Cheese: I love using a mix of cheddar and pepper jack. The cheddar gives that classic cheesiness, while the pepper jack brings the heat. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even mix in some mozzarella for stretchiness!
Cream Cheese: This adds creaminess and helps bind all the ingredients together. Seriously, don’t skip this!
Breadcrumbs: These are crucial for texture and help form the cheeseballs. I usually use Italian-style breadcrumbs for a little extra flavor!
Green Onions: They bring a fresh, bright flavor that balances the richness. Plus, they look pretty!
Hot Sauce: I’m a spice lover, so I go for the full tablespoon, but start with one and adjust to your own taste. Be brave!
Garlic Powder & Onion Powder: These pantry staples pack a punch. They add depth of flavor without all the chopping.
Paprika: A little sweetness and smokiness add another layer of flavor.
Salt and Pepper: Just the essentials—season to your liking!
Egg: This acts as the binding agent to keep our cheeseballs together.
Oil for Frying: Frying gives the cheeseballs a golden, crunchy exterior. You can also bake them if you prefer a lighter option!
Is Spicy Chicken Cheeseballs Good for You?
Okay, let’s chat health. While these cheeseballs are undeniably delicious, they are also higher in calories, given the cheese and cream cheese. The good news?
Shredded Chicken: A great source of lean protein, which is super filling and great for muscle health.
Cheese: Packs calcium and protein but can be high in fat and calories, so moderation is the key, especially if you’re going for the cheddar.
Green Onions: Low in calories but rich in vitamins and some antioxidants.
If you decide to fry them, keep in mind that frying will increase the calorie content, but hey, let’s be real—sometimes you’ve just got to live a little. Overall, I would say enjoy these cheeseballs as an indulgent snack in the context of a balanced diet!
Ingredients
– 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
– 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or pepper jack)
– 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plus extra for coating)
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions
– 1-2 tablespoons hot sauce (to taste)
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 egg, beaten (for binding)
– Oil for frying (optional)
This recipe makes about 16-20 cheeseballs, depending on how generously you shape them!
How to Make Spicy Chicken Cheeseballs?
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cooked chicken, shredded cheese, cream cheese, breadcrumbs, chopped green onions, hot sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until it’s all mixed up nicely.
2. Now, add the beaten egg to this cheesy madness and mix it in. This will help everything stick together, making it easier to roll.
3. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) if you’re opting for baking. For frying, heat some oil in a pan over medium heat.
4. Using your hands, grab a scoop of that delicious mixture and shape it into little balls about 1-2 inches in diameter. Roll each ball in a bit of extra breadcrumbs to give it that crispy coating.
5. **For Baking**: Place those cheeseballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes until they’re golden brown and cooked through.
**For Frying**: Fry the cheeseballs in batches until golden brown, which usually takes about 3-4 minutes per side. Then, let them drain on some paper towels.
6. Serve those spicy cheeseballs warm, maybe with a side of extra hot sauce or your favorite dipping sauce. Enjoy every bite!
Delicious Variations and Serving Suggestions
If you want to mix things up, try adding some finely diced jalapeños for an extra kick or throw in some herbs like cilantro or parsley for freshness. These cheeseballs also pair surprisingly well with a honey mustard dip or a creamy ranch dip.
A fun idea – make a cheeseball platter for your next gathering with an array of dipping sauces and even some veggies alongside!
I can’t wait for you to try these Spicy Chicken Cheeseballs! They really are the kind of snack that brings people together and leaves them asking for more. So fire up your kitchen, get those hands messy, and enjoy the deliciousness! Don’t forget to let me know how yours turn out. Happy cooking!
