Chicken Cheddar Puffs
Cheddar cheese and tender chicken salad come together in flaky, golden puffs, perfect as an appetizer or snack for gatherings or casual meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt butter in 1/4 cup boiling water.
- Add flour and a dash of salt to the mixture.
- Stir vigorously until combined.
- Cook and stir until the mixture forms a ball that doesn't separate from the pan.
- Cool slightly, then add egg and beat vigorously until smooth.
- Stir in Cheddar cheese.
- Drop the dough onto a greased baking sheet in spoonfuls.
- Bake at 400°F for 20 minutes until golden brown.
- Cool slightly and fill with chicken salad.
Tips & Substitutions
For lighter puffs, consider using a mix of whole wheat flour and all-purpose flour. If you're out of Cheddar, any sharp cheese will work well. You can also add herbs like chives or dill for extra flavor. Ensure your butter is fully melted before adding the flour to achieve the right texture. If you want to save time, pre-made chicken salad can be used instead of making your own.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these delicious chicken cheddar puffs warm as an appetizer or a delightful snack. They pair wonderfully with a fresh garden salad or a bowl of soup, like Tennessee White Chili, for a complete meal. For an elegant touch, garnish with fresh herbs or serve alongside your favorite dipping sauces.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover chicken cheddar puffs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to maintain their crispiness. Avoid microwaving as it can make them soggy. For longer storage, consider freezing them before baking.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Cheddar Puffs contains roughly 83 calories, with 3g protein, 9g carbohydrates, and 4g fat.
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 the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough a few hours in advance. Keep it covered in the refrigerator until you're ready to bake. However, it's best to fill the puffs with chicken salad just before serving to prevent them from becoming soggy.
What can I use instead of chicken salad?
If you want to change things up, try filling the puffs with tuna salad or even a vegetable cream cheese spread for a vegetarian option. These variations can add a new twist to the dish while still being delicious.
How can I tell when the puffs are done baking?
The puffs are ready when they are golden brown and have risen nicely. You can also tap the bottom; if they sound hollow, that's a good sign they are fully cooked. Keep an eye on them in the last few minutes to prevent over-baking.
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).