Cream Cheese Chicken Ball
Cream Cheese Chicken Ball offers a rich, savory flavor with cream cheese and chicken, coated with pecans—perfect for parties, appetizers, or casual gatherings requiring a flavorful bite.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Allow the cream cheese to soften.
- Mix together both cream cheeses, white chicken, Worcestershire sauce, and spices.
- Form the mixture into a ball.
- Roll the ball in chopped pecans.
- Serve with crackers.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, ensure the cream cheese is fully softened before mixing. You can substitute the white chicken with shredded rotisserie chicken for added flavor. If you prefer a different flavor profile, try adding a dash of hot sauce or some diced jalapeños. This chicken ball pairs wonderfully with crackers, which make an excellent base for the creamy mixture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the cream cheese chicken ball alongside an assortment of crackers, fresh vegetables, or bread slices for dipping. A platter of sliced cucumbers and bell peppers complements the rich flavors nicely. This dish is perfect for gatherings, making it a delightful addition to any appetizer spread, especially during the holidays or game days.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, allow it to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes, then serve again with fresh crackers for optimal taste. Avoid reheating in the microwave, as it may alter the texture of the cream cheese.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cream Cheese Chicken Ball contains roughly 175 calories, with 8g protein, 12g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron.
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 chicken ball ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken ball up to 24 hours in advance. Just shape it into a ball, roll it in chopped pecans, and cover it tightly. Store it in the refrigerator until you're ready to serve. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing the taste when you finally present it.
What can I substitute for the cream cheese with chives?
If you don't have cream cheese with chives, you can use plain cream cheese and add finely chopped green onions or chives to taste. This substitution will still provide a similar flavor while allowing you to customize the recipe to your preference. You could also add a bit of garlic powder for extra depth.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version of this recipe, simply omit the white chicken and replace it with finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or olives. You can also add some crushed nuts or seeds for added texture. This makes for a delicious and creamy spread that everyone can enjoy.
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).