Chicken Salad Ball
A creamy chicken salad ball with chopped pecans offers a savory, nutty flavor, perfect for parties or as a delightful appetizer for entertaining guests.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix cream cheese, lemon juice, mayonnaise, salt, ground ginger, and black pepper together using an electric mixer.
- Stir in the chopped chicken, boiled eggs, and onion until well combined.
- Mix well and chill the mixture in the refrigerator.
- Shape the chilled mixture into a ball shape.
- Roll the chicken salad ball in chopped pecans to coat the outside.
- Refrigerate until ready to serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise. If you want extra flavor, add a teaspoon of garlic powder or dill. You can also substitute the chicken with shredded rotisserie chicken for convenience. For a nut-free option, skip the pecans or use sunflower seeds instead. Make sure the cream cheese is softened to blend smoothly with the other ingredients.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chicken salad ball with an assortment of crackers or fresh vegetable sticks for dipping. It pairs beautifully with a light salad or can be served as part of a picnic spread. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a light soup or a refreshing fruit salad for a balanced lunch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors will meld together, making it even tastier the next day. If you plan to serve leftovers, allow the salad to come to room temperature before serving, as it may be firmer from refrigeration.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Salad Ball contains roughly 640 calories, with 8g protein, 49g carbohydrates, and 50g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (45% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (38% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 668mg per serving (29% 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 chicken salad ball ahead of time?
Yes, this chicken salad ball can be made a day in advance. Just prepare the mixture, shape it into a ball, and coat it with pecans. Store it in the refrigerator until you're ready to serve. This makes it a perfect option for parties or gatherings.
What can I substitute for cream cheese?
If you need a substitute for cream cheese, consider using mascarpone or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative for a similar texture. Greek yogurt can also work for a lighter version, although it may slightly alter the flavor profile.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This chicken salad ball is great for meal prep. You can portion it into individual servings and store them in containers. It makes for a convenient lunch option throughout the week, and you can easily pair it with different sides.
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).