chicken cheese balls recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best chicken cheese balls recipe

I’m so excited to share with you one of my family’s favorite recipes – chicken cheese balls. This dish has been a staple in our household for years, and it’s perfect for any occasion.

Whether you’re planning a casual dinner at home or need a crowd-pleasing appetizer for a party, chicken cheese balls are always a hit. I love how easy they are to make and how versatile they can be.

You can serve them as is, or get creative and add your own twist with different seasonings or fillings. My kids absolutely adore them, and I’m sure your family will too.

One of the best things about this recipe is that it’s incredibly easy to customize to suit your taste preferences. You can use different types of cheese, add some diced ham or bacon for extra flavor, or even try out a vegan version by substituting the cheese with a plant-based alternative.

The possibilities are endless, and that’s what makes this recipe so special. I’ve been making these chicken cheese balls for years now, and each time I do, I’m reminded of why this dish has become such an integral part of our family’s culinary tradition.

It’s just one of those recipes that never fails to put a smile on everyone’s face.

Chicken Cheese Balls

4.6 from 1602 votes

Crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside, these chicken cheese balls are a perfect appetizer or snack. Made with seasoned ground chicken and melted mozzarella, they are coated in breadcrumbs and fried until golden brown.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time15 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time35 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 380 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Chicken Mixture

500g ground chicken
1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup finely chopped onion
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon paprika
1 egg, beaten
1/4 cup breadcrumbs

For Coating

1/2 cup all-purpose flour
2 eggs, beaten
1 cup breadcrumbs
Oil for deep frying

👨‍🍳Directions

1In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, grated mozzarella, chopped onion, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, paprika, beaten egg, and 1/4 cup breadcrumbs.
2Mix thoroughly with your hands until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
3Shape the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on a tray.
4Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs.
5Roll each chicken ball first in flour, then dip into the beaten egg, and finally coat evenly with breadcrumbs.
6Press the breadcrumbs gently to ensure they adhere well.
7Heat oil in a deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot to 350°F (175°C).
8Carefully add the chicken cheese balls in batches, without overcrowding, and fry for 5 to 6 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
9The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
10Use a slotted spoon to remove the fried balls and drain them on paper towels.
11Serve immediately while hot and crispy with ketchup, sweet chili sauce, or ranch dressing.

🔧Equipment

Mixing bowl
Deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot
Slotted spoon
Paper towels
Shallow bowls for coating

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 380 kcal🧈Total Fat: 22g💛Saturated Fat: 7g❤️Cholesterol: 120mg🧂Sodium: 780mg🌾Total Carbs: 20g🥦Dietary Fiber: 1g🍬Sugars: 2g🥩Protein: 28g

📝Notes

For a healthier version, you can bake the chicken cheese balls at 400°F (200°C) for 15 to 18 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and cooked through. You can also add chopped herbs like parsley or cilantro to the chicken mixture for extra flavor.

One of my favorite things about these chicken cheese balls is how well they freeze and reheat. Simply place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and put them in the freezer until frozen solid.

Then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag for storage in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator or bake straight from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.

They’re perfect for meal prep or as an easy snack on-the-go! When it comes time to serve, try pairing them with your favorite dipping sauce – ranch dressing is always a winner!

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Cheese Balls

Q: What type of cheese should I use for the chicken cheese balls?

For the best flavor, I recommend using a combination of cheddar and mozzarella cheese. Cheddar provides a rich, sharp flavor that complements the chicken perfectly, while mozzarella adds a creamy texture that helps hold the mixture together.

Q: Can I make these chicken cheese balls in advance?

Yes, you can make the mixture up to 24 hours in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator until you’re ready to shape and bake them.

Q: How do I prevent the chicken cheese balls from breaking apart when baking?

To prevent the chicken cheese balls from breaking apart when baking, make sure to handle them gently when shaping them into balls. You can also chill them in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before baking to help them hold their shape better.

Q: Can I use pre-cooked chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use pre-cooked chicken if you prefer. Just be sure to shred or chop it into small pieces before adding it to the mixture.

Q: Are these chicken cheese balls suitable for children?

These chicken cheese balls are perfect for kids! They’re easy to make and fun to eat, and they’re also packed with protein and calcium from the cheese. Just be sure to cut them into smaller pieces if you’re serving them to younger children who may have trouble handling larger bites.

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