Chicken Salad Shells
Cream cheese and margarine create a rich, tender shell perfect for filling with flavorful chicken salad, making a delightful appetizer or light snack for gatherings or casual lunches.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix cream cheese, margarine, and plain flour until well combined.
- Chill the dough overnight to firm up.
- Press the chilled dough into mini muffin pans to form shells.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 12 to 15 minutes until lightly golden.
- Remove from oven and let cool slightly.
- Fill the shells with your favorite chicken salad, approximately 1 pound for every 4 dozen shells.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance flavor, consider adding herbs like dill or parsley to the dough. If you don't have margarine, unsalted butter works well as a substitute. For a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free flour blend. Remember to press the dough firmly into the muffin pans to create sturdy shells that hold up to the chicken salad filling.
Serving Suggestions
These chicken salad shells make a great appetizer or light lunch. Serve them alongside a fresh green salad or pair with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing meal. For a fun twist, consider serving them with a side of your favorite dipping sauce or a fruit salad for a balanced plate.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover chicken salad separately from the shells in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps the shells from becoming soggy. When ready to serve, you can reheat the shells in a 350°F oven for about 5 minutes to restore their crispness before filling them again.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Salad Shells contains roughly 61 calories, with 1g protein, 2g carbohydrates, and 5g 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 in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the dough a few days ahead and keep it refrigerated. Just make sure to let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before pressing it into the muffin pans. This will make it easier to work with.
What can I use to fill the shells besides chicken salad?
You can fill the shells with a variety of options! Consider using tuna salad, egg salad, or even a vegetarian option like a quinoa and roasted vegetable mix. The shells are versatile and can accommodate many different fillings.
How do I know when the shells are done baking?
The shells are done when they turn lightly golden and firm to the touch. Keep an eye on them, as baking times can vary slightly based on your oven. A good indicator is the edges turning golden brown. Let them cool slightly before removing from the pans.
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).