Crispy Chicken Cheese Balls are a delicious and indulgent snack or appetizer that combines the savory flavors of chicken and cheese with a crispy outer coating. These bite-sized treats are perfect for parties, gatherings, or as a special treat for yourself.
Why We Waited Way Too Long for Cheese Balls (and How Easy They Are!)
Let’s be honest, haven’t we all put off making cheese balls for fear of a molten cheese explosion instead of a crispy, gooey delight? But fear no more, cheese ball lovers! It turns out achieving that perfect balance is surprisingly simple. All you need is the right recipe.
Seriously, who knew homemade cheese balls could be this easy? The recipe itself is probably similar to your favorite Asian chicken meatball recipe. Think about it: a base of ground meat, some eggs, breadcrumbs, and a sprinkle of herbs. It’s a familiar, comforting combination that translates perfectly into these cheesy spheres of joy.
Crispy Chicken Cheese Balls Recipe
Course: AppetizersCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Medium3
servings20
minutes40
minutes220
kcalThese delicious balls are perfect for parties, appetizers, or a quick and tasty snack.
Ingredients
1 lb boneless chicken breast, cooked and shredded
1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
1/4 cup green onions, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
2 eggs, beaten
1 cup breadcrumbs
Oil for frying
Directions, Prepare the chicken mixture:
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, green onions, garlic, salt, black pepper, paprika, dried oregano, and dried basil. Mix well to combine.
- Shape the mixture into balls:
- Scoop out about 1 tablespoon of the chicken mixture and shape it into a ball. Repeat with the remaining mixture.
- Coat the balls with breadcrumbs:
- Roll each ball in the flour, then dip it into the beaten eggs, and finally coat it with breadcrumbs. Make sure the balls are evenly coated.
- Fry the balls until crispy:
- In a deep skillet or fryer, heat the oil to 350°F. Fry the balls in batches for 3-4 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Remove from the oil and drain on paper towels.
Recipe Video
Notes
- For a cheesy surprise, you can add a small cube of mozzarella cheese in the center of each ball before shaping them.
- To bake instead of fry, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the breaded chicken balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. Flip the balls halfway through baking for even browning.
- Freeze leftover uncooked chicken cheese balls for later use. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for up to 3 months. Fry or bake frozen balls for a few extra minutes until cooked through.
Serving suggestions:
Serve the Crispy Chicken Cheese Balls hot with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ranch dressing, barbecue sauce, or honey mustard.
Health benefits of Crispy Chicken Cheese Balls:
While Crispy Chicken Cheese Balls are a tasty treat, they are also relatively high in protein due to the chicken and cheese content. However, they should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Conclusion:
Crispy Chicken Cheese Balls are a delightful and satisfying snack that is sure to please any crowd. With their crispy exterior and gooey cheese center, they are a perfect appetizer for any occasion.
FAQs:
- Can I freeze Crispy Chicken Cheese Balls?
- Yes, you can freeze uncooked Crispy Chicken Cheese Balls for up to 3 months. Simply place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag or container.
- Can I use different types of cheese in this recipe?
- Yes, feel free to experiment with different types of cheese to suit your taste preferences. Monterey Jack, Gouda, or Swiss cheese would all work well.
- Can I bake Crispy Chicken Cheese Balls instead of frying them?
- Yes, you can bake Crispy Chicken Cheese Balls in a preheated oven at 375°F for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
- Can I use leftover cooked chicken in this recipe?
- Yes, you can use leftover cooked chicken in this recipe. Simply shred the chicken and proceed with the recipe as directed.
- How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
- To make this recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure that all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.