Cheese and Chicken Balls

These Cheese and Chicken Balls are a delightful combination of tender chicken, creamy cheeses, and vegetables, all baked to a golden, crispy perfection. With the addition of steamed broccoli and flavorful seasonings, these bites are a great way to enjoy a savory snack or appetizer. Perfect for parties, gatherings, or as a quick meal, these cheesy balls are easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. Serve them warm with your favorite dipping sauce for an irresistible treat!

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

Ingredients

• 2 cups (300 g) cooked chicken, shredded or finely chopped
• 1 cup (150 g) steamed broccoli, finely chopped
• 1 cup (100 g) shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup (100 g) breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• ½ tsp paprika (optional)
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• Cooking spray or olive oil (for greasing)

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven:
   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly grease it with cooking spray or olive oil.

2. Prepare the Ingredients:
   Steam the broccoli until tender and finely chop it.
   In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, chopped broccoli, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, paprika (if using), salt, and pepper.

3. Add the Eggs:
   Pour the beaten eggs into the bowl and mix everything until well combined. The mixture should hold together when pressed.

4. Shape the Balls:
   Scoop about 1 tablespoon of the mixture and roll it into a ball. Place it on the prepared baking sheet. Repeat until all the mixture is used.

5. Bake:
   Lightly spray or brush the cheese balls with olive oil. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden and slightly crispy on the outside.

6. Serve:
   Let the cheese balls cool slightly before serving. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve these cheese balls with marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or a spicy aioli for dipping.
• Pair with a simple side salad to make a complete meal.
• These can also be served as part of a charcuterie board for a party.

Tips

• If the mixture is too wet to form into balls, add a little more breadcrumbs until it holds together properly.
• For extra crispiness, try spraying the cheese balls with a little more olive oil before baking.
• You can make these cheese balls ahead of time and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking.
• If you prefer a spicier flavor, add a dash of hot sauce or chili flakes to the mixture.

Variations to Try

• Vegetarian Version: Replace the chicken with cooked quinoa or lentils for a vegetarian option.
• Spicy Cheese Balls: Add a small amount of diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes for some heat.
• Cheese Variation: You can swap the cheddar and Parmesan for other cheeses like mozzarella, gouda, or pepper jack for different flavors.

Conclusion
These Cheese and Chicken Balls are a perfect snack, appetizer, or meal. The combination of cheesy goodness, tender chicken, and nutritious broccoli makes them both delicious and satisfying. They’re easy to prepare, bake quickly, and are sure to be loved by everyone. Enjoy them warm with your favorite dipping sauce for the ultimate savory treat.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I make these ahead of time?
  Yes! You can make the cheese balls ahead of time, shape them, and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake. They’ll hold their shape well in the fridge.

• Can I freeze these cheese balls?
  Yes, you can freeze the shaped, uncooked cheese balls. Arrange them on a baking sheet, freeze until firm, and then transfer them to a zip-top bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cook time.

• Can I use a different type of cheese?
  Absolutely! You can experiment with other types of cheese like mozzarella, gouda, or Swiss. Just make sure it’s a cheese that melts well.

• How can I make these more crispy?
  For a crunchier texture, you can coat the cheese balls in additional breadcrumbs before baking or lightly fry them in a pan after baking.

• Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
  Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well to avoid excess moisture.