These Snappy Chicken Balls are a delightful fusion of savory and sweet, perfect for holiday gatherings or elegant parties. The base combines finely chopped cooked chicken with crunchy almonds and tangy Major Grey’s chutney, creating a complex flavor profile. This mixture is bound with a creamy blend of softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, and aromatic curry powder. Once chilled and shaped into bite-sized spheres, they are rolled in sweet grated coconut, adding a lovely texture contrast and subtle tropical note. Garnished with candied orange peel or edible flowers, these appetizers offer a sophisticated yet easy-to-make option that disappears quickly from the platter. They are ideal for make-ahead entertaining, as they hold their shape well when refrigerated.
Snappy Chicken Balls
Description
These Snappy Chicken Balls are a delightful fusion of savory and sweet, perfect for holiday gatherings or elegant parties. The base combines finely chopped cooked chicken with crunchy almonds and tangy Major Grey's chutney, creating a complex flavor profile. This mixture is bound with a creamy blend of softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, and aromatic curry powder. Once chilled and shaped into bite-sized spheres, they are rolled in sweet grated coconut, adding a lovely texture contrast and subtle tropical note. Garnished with candied orange peel or edible flowers, these appetizers offer a sophisticated yet easy-to-make option that disappears quickly from the platter. They are ideal for make-ahead entertaining, as they hold their shape well when refrigerated.Ingredients
Directions
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In a large mixing bowl, combine the finely chopped cooked chicken, chopped almonds, green onion, and Major Grey's chutney. Mix well to distribute the ingredients evenly.
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In a separate medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, and curry powder until smooth and fully incorporated. Season with salt to taste.
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Add the cream cheese mixture to the chicken mixture. Stir thoroughly until the chicken is fully coated and the mixture holds together when pressed.
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Cover the bowl and refrigerate the mixture for at least 30 minutes to firm up, which will make shaping easier.
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Once chilled, take small portions of the mixture and roll them between your palms to form bite-sized balls.
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Roll each ball in the grated coconut, ensuring it is completely coated.
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Place the coated balls on a serving platter. Refrigerate, covered, until ready to serve to maintain freshness and structure.
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Just before serving, garnish with small pieces of candied orange peel or edible flowers if desired.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 80
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 14.3kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 0.7g2%
- Saturated Fat 0.2g1%
- Cholesterol 5.3mg2%
- Sodium 4.9mg1%
- Total Carbohydrate 0.0g0%
- Dietary Fiber 0.0g0%
- Sugars 0.0g
- Protein 1.6g4%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Make Ahead: These chicken balls can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance. Keep them covered in the refrigerator. If they become too firm, let them sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before serving.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Do not freeze as the texture of the coconut and cream cheese may change upon thawing.
Substitutions: If Major Grey's chutney is unavailable, you can substitute with a mild mango chutney or apple chutney, though the flavor profile will differ slightly. For a nut-free version, omit the almonds and increase the chicken quantity slightly to maintain volume.
Texture Tip: Ensure the chicken is finely chopped or shredded to avoid large chunks that might make rolling difficult. If the mixture is too sticky to handle, chill it for an additional 15 minutes or lightly wet your hands with water before rolling.
