Sheila'S Chicken Ball
Cream cheese and chicken are blended with savory seasonings and coated with chopped pecans to create a flavorful, creamy appetizer perfect for gatherings and parties.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Soften the cream cheese.
- Mix all ingredients together in a food processor.
- Form the mixture into a ball and chill.
- Roll the chilled ball in chopped pecans.
- Serve with your favorite crackers.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like parsley or chives to the mixture. If you want a bit more kick, increase the amount of Worcestershire sauce or add a pinch of cayenne pepper. For a lighter option, you can substitute Greek yogurt for half of the cream cheese. This dish is versatile, so feel free to experiment with different nuts or spices.
Serving Suggestions
This chicken ball is perfect as an appetizer for gatherings or parties. Serve it with an assortment of crackers, fresh veggie sticks, or even toasted baguette slices. For a complete spread, pair it with a refreshing dip or browse more American recipes for additional sides that complement this dish well.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the chicken ball wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sheila'S Chicken Ball contains roughly 427 calories, with 17g protein, 39g carbohydrates, and 24g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (426% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (55% of the Daily Value), and protein (35% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 667mg 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 use fresh chicken instead of canned?
Yes, you can use cooked and shredded fresh chicken instead of canned. Just make sure to season it well to match the flavors of the original recipe. Also, keep in mind that the texture may differ slightly, but it will still be delicious.
Is there a vegan alternative for this recipe?
For a vegan version, substitute the cream cheese with a plant-based alternative and use canned chickpeas or shredded jackfruit instead of chicken. Season well to ensure it has a robust flavor, and follow the same preparation method for a tasty vegan appetizer.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
To increase the heat level, add more red pepper flakes, a dash of hot sauce, or even finely chopped jalapeños to the mixture. You can also serve it with a spicy dipping sauce on the side for those who enjoy an extra kick.
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).