Chicken Cream Cheese Balls Recipe
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 495.7 kcal
Description:
These Chicken Cream Cheese Balls are a delightful surprise with every bite. Tender chicken breasts envelop a creamy center of cream cheese, creating a burst of flavor that will impress anyone lucky enough to taste them. Despite the little work involved, the end result is truly worth it, making this dish perfect for special occasions or weeknight dinners when you crave something extraordinary. Each bite is filled with savory satisfaction, making this dish a must-try for any chicken lover.
Ingredients:
- 4 chicken breasts
- 8 oz cream cheese
- 1-2 eggs
- Bread crumbs (as needed)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
Instructions:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Flatten out the chicken breasts using a meat mallet or rolling pin until they are evenly thin. |
| 2 | Take a generous spoonful of cream cheese and place it in the center of each flattened chicken breast. |
| 3 | Carefully fold the chicken breast around the cream cheese, forming a ball shape with the cheese enclosed inside. Seal the edges well to prevent the cheese from leaking out during cooking. |
| 4 | In a shallow bowl, beat the eggs and season with salt and pepper to taste. |
| 5 | Dip each chicken ball into the egg mixture, ensuring it is well coated on all sides. |
| 6 | Roll the coated chicken balls in breadcrumbs until they are fully covered, providing a crispy exterior when cooked. |
| 7 | Place the coated chicken balls in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow them to firm up before cooking. This step helps the balls retain their shape during frying and baking. |
| 8 | In a skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat. |
| 9 | Once the oil is hot, add the chicken balls and cook for about 5 minutes, or until they are lightly browned on all sides. The chicken will not be fully cooked at this stage, but the browning adds flavor and texture. |
| 10 | Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). |
| 11 | Transfer the partially cooked chicken balls to a baking dish, arranging them in a single layer. |
| 12 | Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cream cheese is melted and creamy. |
| 13 | Once cooked, remove the chicken cream cheese balls from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. |
| 14 | Serve hot, garnished with your favorite herbs or dipping sauce, and enjoy the delicious flavors of these creamy, cheesy chicken delights! |
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
- Calories: 495.7 kcal
- Total Fat: 37.8g
- Saturated Fat: 17.1g
- Cholesterol: 208.1mg
- Sodium: 276.7mg
- Carbohydrates: 1.6g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 0.2g
- Protein: 36.1g
Recipe Notes:
- You can customize these chicken cream cheese balls by adding your favorite seasonings or herbs to the cream cheese mixture for extra flavor.
- For a low-carb option, you can substitute almond flour or crushed pork rinds for breadcrumbs in the coating.
- Ensure the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or microwave until warmed through before serving.
- Get creative with your dipping sauces! Try marinara sauce, garlic aioli, or sweet chili sauce for a delicious accompaniment to these tasty chicken balls.
