Introduction
Do you ever find yourself searching for a simple, yet satisfying appetizer, lunch, or snack? Look no further than Creamy Chicken Salad Bites served on crunchy crackers. This delightful treat is made with leftover chicken and staple ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. The addition of eggs, cheese, and tomatoes brings together the flavors, while the crisp and juicy cucumber adds the perfect finishing touch.
An Appetizer for Any Occasion
Imagine cozying up on the couch with your sweetie, watching a movie and indulging in a tray of these scrumptious chicken salad bites on crackers. It’s not only a delightful late-night snack, but also an excellent option for serving guests. My sister-in-laws, Inna and Ulyana, have perfected this recipe, earning praise from both the men and ladies in our family. The best part? The ingredients are pantry staples, readily available at any time of the day. In just a few minutes, you can whip up this snack and assemble it with ease.
Versatile and Convenient
The beauty of this chicken salad recipe lies in its versatility. While it makes a stellar appetizer, it also doubles as a fantastic and effortless lunch option. Whether you’re at home, work, or school, this creamy chicken salad is an ideal companion. Its simplicity allows you to enjoy it on its own or pack it up for a quick meal on the go.
Ingredients for the Chicken Salad Bites Appetizer
Isn’t it remarkable how a handful of simple, staple ingredients can come together and create something so delicious? For this recipe, you’ll need:
- Cooked chicken: This is the ideal recipe for using up leftover chicken, rotisserie chicken, or even canned chicken. If you don’t have any on hand, roasting or poaching chicken is a quick and easy alternative.
- Hard-boiled eggs: They add a delightful texture and richness to the salad. Don’t know how to hard boil eggs? I’ve got you covered with both stovetop and instant pot methods.
- Tomato: Fresh tomato brings a burst of flavor to the salad. Just be sure to remove the seeds before chopping to prevent the salad from becoming watery.
- Parsley (or other fresh herbs): Enhance the taste by adding your favorite herbs like green onion, chives, dill, cilantro, rosemary, or thyme.
- Grated cheese: Choose your favorite grated cheese to elevate the flavors. Mozzarella, Parmesan, Provolone, Asiago, Romano, Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Colby are all great options.
- Crackers: Select your preferred type of crackers. Any variety will do, as long as you have around 35-40 crackers.
- Mayonnaise and Ranch dressing: Mayonnaise brings it all together, creating a creamy texture. A few spoonfuls of Ranch dressing can add an extra kick of flavor if desired.
- Salt and pepper to taste
Preparing and Assembling the Chicken Salad Bites
Bringing together these delicious ingredients is a breeze. Follow these simple steps:
- In a large bowl, combine all the ingredients for the chicken salad. Remember to remove the tomato seeds before adding them to the salad to maintain the desired consistency.
- Cut the cucumber into thin slices.
- Place about a tablespoon of the chicken salad on top of each cracker.
- For an extra burst of freshness, add a slice of cucumber on top of the chicken.
Alternative Serving Options
If you’re in the mood for something different, here are a few alternative ways to enjoy the chicken salad:
- Place the chicken salad on top of cucumber slices, omitting the crackers entirely.
- Serve the chicken salad on bread, croissants, or use it as a filling in a quesadilla, pita bread, or lettuce leaves.
- For a warm and melty twist, layer the chicken salad on bread, top it with additional cheese, and toast it in the oven until golden and gooey.
Preparing the Chicken Salad in Advance
If you prefer to prepare your chicken salad in advance, follow these steps:
- Make the chicken salad without adding the tomato.
- Store the salad in the refrigerator for up to three days.
- Just before serving, add freshly chopped tomato.
- Serve the chicken salad on crackers with cucumber for a delightful and convenient snack.
Image source: Family Cuisine
This article was originally published on September 24, 2012. The pictures have been updated, and the instructions clarified for your enhanced experience. Enjoy!
