My kids love it when I make these Cheesy Chicken Balls. In fact, they’ve become a bit of a tradition in our household. Whenever we have a movie night or a get-together, you can bet these savory bites are on the menu. They’re easy to prepare, which is a blessing when you’re juggling a busy schedule, and everyone seems to gravitate towards them. They’re packed with flavor – the cheesy goodness mixed with the tender chicken and the subtle herbs make them irresistible.
I remember the first time I made them, my husband walked into the kitchen, drawn by the delightful aroma. “What’s cooking?” he asked, peeking over my shoulder. When I handed him a freshly fried chicken ball, his eyes lit up. “These are fantastic!” he exclaimed. Since then, it’s been a dish I can always count on to bring a smile to everyone’s face.
If you’re looking for a dish that’s not just easy on the prep but also a hit with all ages, give these Cheesy Chicken Balls a try. They’re perfect for any occasion – be it a quick weeknight dinner, a party appetizer, or a fun snack for the kids. Why not make it a family affair? Get everyone involved in rolling the chicken mixture into balls or coating them in breadcrumbs. It’s a great way to bond and have a bit of fun in the kitchen. So, pull out those ingredients and let’s dive into making some delicious Cheesy Chicken Balls!
How to Make Cheesy Chicken Balls
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Ingredients:
- 2 cooked chicken breasts
- 2 egg yolks
- ¼ cup plain flour
- 1 ¾ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 chopped spring onions
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon pepper
- 1 cup bread crumbs
Directions:
- Using two forks, shred the cooked chicken breasts into fine pieces in a mixing bowl.
- In a separate large bowl, blend the shredded chicken with egg yolks, flour, mozzarella cheese, spring onions, paprika, rosemary, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Mix all the ingredients thoroughly until they are well combined.
- Shape the mixture into small balls using your hands, ensuring each ball is firm.
- Coat each ball evenly by rolling them in the breadcrumbs set aside in a shallow dish.
- In a frying pan, heat sufficient oil for deep frying. Once hot, fry the chicken balls in batches for about 3 minutes until they are golden brown.
- Serve immediately and enjoy the cheesy delight!
No Mozzarella? Try These Alternatives
If you’re out of mozzarella, no worries! Try using cheddar for a sharper flavor, or gouda for a nuttier taste. Even cream cheese can add a rich, creamy texture. Adjust according to what you’ve got in the fridge, and find a new favorite!
How Long Do Cheesy Chicken Balls Last?
Once cooked, store any leftover chicken balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To enjoy them later, reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as it may turn the coating soggy.
Perfect Pairings for Cheesy Chicken Balls
Serve these balls with a fresh green salad or a side of roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. A tangy marinara sauce or creamy ranch dressing makes for great dipping options. Pair with a chilled white wine or a refreshing lemonade to complete the meal.
Secrets to Perfecting Cheesy Chicken Balls
Ensure the chicken mixture is well-combined to prevent the balls from falling apart. If the mixture is dry, add a splash of milk for moisture. Fry at a consistent temperature to achieve an even golden crust, and drain excess oil on paper towels for a healthier dish.
Seasonal Twists for Cheesy Chicken Balls
In spring, add fresh herbs like basil or parsley for a burst of flavor. Summer calls for a hint of lemon zest for zing. During fall, incorporate roasted pumpkin or squash, and in winter, add a touch of nutmeg or cinnamon for warmth.
FAQs:
Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken works perfectly for this recipe. It’s a great way to make use of leftovers while creating a delicious new dish. Just make sure the chicken is thoroughly shredded and combined with the other ingredients for the best results.
What if I don’t have breadcrumbs?
No breadcrumbs? No problem. You can substitute with crushed cornflakes, panko, or even lightly toasted oats for extra texture. Each of these options will provide a different flavor and crunch, so feel free to experiment to see what you and your family like best.
Can I bake the chicken balls instead of frying them?
Certainly! To bake, preheat your oven to 375°F. Place the coated chicken balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for about 20 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and cooked through. This method is a healthier alternative to deep frying.
How do I ensure the balls don’t fall apart?
The key to keeping the balls intact is ensuring that the mixture is moist and well-bound. Make sure to mix all ingredients thoroughly and press the mixture firmly when shaping each ball. If necessary, adding a bit of egg or a splash of milk can help bind everything together.
Can I make these chicken balls in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken balls a day in advance. Shape and coat them, then store covered in the fridge until you’re ready to cook. This is especially useful for entertaining, as it allows you to focus on other preparations on the day of your event.
What dipping sauces go well with these chicken balls?
A variety of dipping sauces pair wonderfully with these cheesy delights. Try a classic marinara, spicy sriracha mayo, or a creamy garlic aioli. Each sauce brings out different flavors from the chicken balls, so feel free to offer a selection to cater to different tastes.
Cheesy Chicken Balls
Equipment
- Frying pan
Ingredients
- 2 pieces cooked chicken breasts shredded
- 2 pieces egg yolks
- 1/4 cup plain flour
- 1 3/4 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 pieces spring onions chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 1 cup bread crumbs
Instructions
- Begin by shredding the cooked chicken breasts using two forks in a bowl.
For the Mixture:
- In a larger bowl, combine the shredded chicken with egg yolks, flour, mozzarella cheese, chopped spring onions, paprika, dried rosemary, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Thoroughly mix all the ingredients together, then mold the mixture into balls using your hands.
- Coat each ball in breadcrumbs by rolling them in a shallow bowl until fully covered.
For Cooking:
- In a frying pan, heat about a liter of oil and deep fry the balls for around 3 minutes, until they are golden brown.
- Serve the cheesy chicken balls hot and enjoy the delicious flavors!
