Cheese And Chicken Ball
Creamy and savory, this Cheese and Chicken Ball combines tender chicken with cream cheese and fresh green onions, shaped into a delightful appetizer. Perfect for gatherings, it offers comforting flavors with a hint of freshness, garnished with parsley and served with crispy Wheat Thins for dipping.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain the canned chicken well and season with salt and pepper.
- Place the seasoned chicken in a mixing bowl.
- Add the softened cream cheese and chopped green onions to the bowl.
- Mix everything thoroughly until well combined.
- Shape the mixture into a ball and place it on a serving dish.
- Sprinkle with parsley for garnish.
- Refrigerate until the ball is firm, about 1 hour.
- Serve with Wheat Thins or your preferred crackers.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using a flavored cream cheese, such as garlic or herb. If you want to add a kick, mix in some diced jalapeños. For a lighter version, you can substitute Greek yogurt for half of the cream cheese. Make sure to finely chop the green onions to distribute their flavor evenly throughout the ball.
Serving Suggestions
This cheese and chicken ball pairs beautifully with Wheat Thins or your favorite crackers. For added texture, serve alongside fresh vegetable sticks such as carrots, celery, and bell peppers. It also complements a cheese platter, making it a great addition to any gathering or party.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, allow the cheese ball to come to room temperature before serving, as it is best enjoyed cold. If you prefer a warm dip, you can heat it gently in the microwave, but be cautious not to overheat it.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheese And Chicken Ball contains roughly 285 calories, with 17g protein, 21g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (125% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (71% of the Daily Value), and potassium (57% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 905mg per serving (39% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this cheese and chicken ball ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cheese ball a day in advance. Just shape it and refrigerate it until firm. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Just remember to let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving for easier slicing.
What can I use instead of green onions?
If you don't have green onions, finely chopped chives or shallots can be great substitutes. They provide a similar mild onion flavor. For a more robust taste, try adding a little minced red onion, but use it sparingly to avoid overpowering the dish.
Can I freeze the cheese and chicken ball?
Yes, you can freeze the cheese and chicken ball. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When ready to serve, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and let it sit at room temperature for a bit before serving.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).