Chicken Ball
Creamy and flavorful, Chicken Ball combines cooked chicken, chopped onions, mayonnaise, boiled eggs, Texas Pete, lemon juice, and cream cheese into a delicious appetizer or snack. Rolled in pecans and served with crackers or bagels, it appeals to those seeking a savory, easy-to-make dish perfect for gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients, except for the pecans, stirring well.
- Make into a ball and chill in the refrigerator.
- When cold, roll in pecans.
- Serve with your choice of crackers or bagels.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a tablespoon of sour cream or Greek yogurt. If you're out of Texas Pete, any hot sauce can work in a pinch, or try a dash of smoked paprika for a different flavor. Chopping the boiled eggs finely will help them blend better with the other ingredients. This recipe is great for using up leftover cooked chicken and can be adapted to various tastes.
Serving Suggestions
This chicken ball pairs beautifully with your choice of crackers or bagels for a delightful appetizer. For a fun twist, serve it alongside some fresh veggies like celery or cucumber slices. You can also create a platter with other finger foods from American recipes, such as Buffalo Wings or Texas-Style Potatoes, to make it a complete spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the chicken ball without the pecans. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. To serve again, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then roll in pecans before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Ball contains roughly 479 calories, with 11g protein, 26g carbohydrates, and 39g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 470mg per serving (20% 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 use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut for this dish, adding a depth of flavor and saving time. Just shred or chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces before mixing it with the other ingredients.
What can I substitute for cream cheese?
If you're looking for a lighter option, consider using a low-fat cream cheese or a blend of cottage cheese and Greek yogurt. This will still provide a creamy texture while reducing calories. Just ensure that whatever you use can be easily blended with the other ingredients.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
To create a vegetarian version of this chicken ball, you can replace the chicken with finely chopped cooked mushrooms or chickpeas for texture. Additionally, consider adding some finely chopped bell peppers or celery for added crunch and flavor.
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).