Crispy Baked Chicken Cheese Balls are the ultimate bite-sized indulgence—golden on the outside, creamy and savory on the inside. These flavorful morsels combine shredded chicken, melty mozzarella, sharp Parmesan, and aromatic herbs, all bound together with breadcrumbs and a touch of mayonnaise for richness. Unlike traditional fried versions, these are baked to perfection, offering a healthier alternative without sacrificing crunch or flavor. Ideal for parties, family dinners, or as a protein-packed snack, they’re versatile and crowd-pleasing. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauces—ranch, spicy aioli, or marinara—for an irresistible appetizer that disappears fast.
INGREDIENTS:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, finely shredded
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (plus extra for coating)
- ¼ cup finely chopped red bell pepper
- ¼ cup finely chopped onion
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for brushing)
- Optional: dipping sauce (ranch, marinara, spicy mayo)
INSTRUCTIONS:
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, mozzarella, Parmesan, breadcrumbs, red bell pepper, onion, and parsley. These ingredients form the base of your cheese balls, offering a balance of protein, creaminess, and crunch.
- Season Generously: Add garlic powder, black pepper, salt, and paprika to the bowl. These spices enhance the flavor profile, giving the balls a subtle kick and depth.
- Bind the Mixture: In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and mayonnaise until smooth. Pour this into the chicken mixture and stir thoroughly. The egg helps bind the ingredients, while the mayo adds moisture and richness.
- Form the Balls: Scoop out small portions of the mixture using a tablespoon or small ice cream scoop. Roll them into balls about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. The mixture should be firm enough to hold its shape—if it’s too wet, add a bit more breadcrumbs.
- Coat for Crispiness: Roll each ball in additional breadcrumbs to coat the exterior. This step ensures a crunchy texture once baked.
- Bake to Golden Perfection: Arrange the coated balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart. Lightly brush the tops with olive oil to promote browning. Bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the balls are golden brown and crisp.
- Cool and Garnish: Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly. Garnish with extra chopped parsley or a sprinkle of Parmesan for a fresh finish.
- Serve with Dips: Serve warm with your choice of dipping sauce. Ranch dressing, spicy aioli, or marinara all pair beautifully with the cheesy, savory flavor of the chicken balls.
Serving Suggestions & Variations:
- Add chopped jalapeños or chili flakes for a spicy version.
- Use cheddar or gouda instead of mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
- Make ahead and freeze: shape and coat the balls, then freeze before baking. Bake directly from frozen, adding 5–7 minutes to the cook time.