This fun appetizer features tender chicken mixed with tart cranberries and crunchy walnuts, all wrapped up in crispy phyllo cups. It’s perfect for gatherings!
These cups are so cute and bite-sized, making them easy to share—or keep all to yourself! I love how they are both crunchy and creamy. Who can resist that combo? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: Use rotisserie chicken for easy shredding. If you’re vegetarian, try chickpeas or cooked tofu for a protein-packed alternative!
Dried Cranberries: These add a sweet tartness. If unavailable, try raisins or chopped dried cherries for a similar taste.
Walnuts: They bring a crunchy texture. If you’re nut-free, sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds make a great substitute!
Mayonnaise: This is the base for creaminess. Greek yogurt is a healthier substitute for a tangy flavor and extra protein. You can skip it entirely for a lighter salad.
Sour Cream: This ingredient adds extra creaminess, but you can leave it out if preferred. Plain yogurt works well too!
How Do I Make the Perfect Phyllo Cups?
Getting those delicious phyllo cups just right can be tricky, but here are my tips:
- Use store-bought phyllo cups for convenience; just pop them in the oven to crisp up.
- If making your own, stack 4-5 sheets of phyllo, brushing each layer with melted butter or oil. Cut into squares and nestle them into a mini muffin tin.
- Bake at 375°F until golden brown, about 10-15 minutes. Let them cool before filling.
These hints will help ensure your phyllo cups are perfectly crisp and ready to be filled with that tasty chicken salad!
Cranberry Walnut Chicken Salad Phyllo Cups
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Salad:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or finely chopped
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream (optional, for extra creaminess)
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped
- 1/4 cup celery, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons green onion or chives, chopped
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Phyllo Cups:
- 12-15 phyllo cups (store-bought frozen mini phyllo shells or homemade)
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley or dill (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and, if using store-bought phyllo cups, minimal time for assembling. If you decide to make your own phyllo cups, add an additional 15-20 minutes for baking. Overall, you can enjoy these tasty treats in under 40 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken Salad:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked shredded chicken, mayonnaise, and sour cream (if using). Mix well with a spoon or spatula until everything is creamy.
2. Mix in the Extras:
Add the dried cranberries, chopped walnuts, celery, and green onion (or chives) to the chicken mixture. Drizzle in the lemon juice. Stir gently, making sure all ingredients are nicely combined.
3. Season to Taste:
Season your chicken salad with salt and pepper to your liking. If you’d like it creamier, feel free to add more mayonnaise or sour cream.
4. Prepare the Phyllo Cups:
If you’re using store-bought phyllo cups, go ahead and thaw them according to the package instructions. If making your own, layer phyllo sheets in a mini muffin tin, brushing each sheet with melted butter, and bake at 375°F until golden and crispy, around 10-15 minutes.
5. Fill the Phyllo Cups:
Once your cups are ready, spoon the chicken salad mixture into each phyllo cup, filling them generously without overfilling.
6. Garnish:
For a decorative touch, place a whole dried cranberry on top of each cup and sprinkle with fresh parsley or dill.
7. Serve and Enjoy!
Arrange the filled phyllo cups on a serving platter. These delightful bite-sized treats are best served fresh to keep the phyllo crisp. Enjoy them at your next gathering!
These Cranberry Walnut Chicken Salad Phyllo Cups are not only delicious but also a beautiful addition to any table!
Can I Use Other Types of Nuts?
Absolutely! If you’re allergic to walnuts or prefer a different flavor, try pecans or almonds. Just make sure to chop them finely for a nice texture!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
If you have leftover chicken salad, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. However, it’s best to keep the phyllo cups separate until ready to serve, as they can become soggy.
Can I Make the Chicken Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the chicken salad a day in advance. Just keep it covered in the fridge. Fill the phyllo cups shortly before serving to maintain their crispiness.
What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise?
If you’re looking for a healthier option, Greek yogurt is a great substitute for mayonnaise. It will add a nice tang and still provide creaminess to the chicken salad!