8 Best Chicken Appetizers for Party

When planning a party, the food is always a top priority.

Chicken appetizers have a way of bringing everyone together and setting the perfect vibe.

From crispy Buffalo wings to delightful chicken satay skewers with creamy peanut sauce, there are so many delicious options to choose from.

These mouthwatering treats are sure to impress your guests and get the conversation flowing.

Let’s take a look at the best chicken appetizers that will elevate your next gathering!

Crispy Buffalo Chicken Wings

Buffalo chicken wings are a quintessential appetizer perfect for any party, game day, or casual gathering. These wings aren’t just crispy and flavorful, but they also pack a punch with their spicy buffalo sauce that can be adjusted to suit your taste.

Creating the perfect crispy buffalo chicken wings at home is easier than you might think, and they’re sure to be a crowd-pleaser. The key to achieving that irresistible crispiness lies in the preparation and frying technique. By marinating the wings and using a combination of baking powder and cornstarch, you can guarantee that they come out perfectly golden and crunchy.

Once fried to perfection, they’re tossed in a classic buffalo sauce for that spicy kick, making them the ideal finger food for your next gathering.

Ingredients (Serves 4-6):

• 2 pounds chicken wings
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• Celery sticks and blue cheese dressing for serving (optional)

Cooking Instructions:

1. Preparation of Chicken Wings: Start by rinsing the chicken wings under cold water and patting them dry with paper towels. This step is important, as removing moisture will help achieve a crispier texture when cooked.

Place the wings in a large bowl.

2. Seasoning the Wings: In a small bowl, combine the baking powder, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the chicken wings, making sure that each wing is well-coated.

The baking powder helps to create that crispy texture when cooked.

3. Coating the Wings: Add the all-purpose flour to the seasoned wings and toss until they’re evenly coated. This additional layer of flour will help to create a crunchy exterior during frying.

4. Frying the Wings: Heat oil in a deep fryer or a large pot to 375°F (190°C). Carefully add the chicken wings in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan.

Fry the wings for about 8-10 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and have reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Use a slotted spoon to remove the wings and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

5. Making the Buffalo Sauce: While the wings are frying, prepare the buffalo sauce by mixing the hot sauce and melted butter in a large bowl. Stir until well combined.

The butter helps to mellow out the heat of the hot sauce while adding richness.

6. Tossing the Wings in Sauce: Once the wings are cooked and drained, add them to the bowl with the buffalo sauce. Toss the wings in the sauce until they’re fully coated.

7. Serving: Transfer the buffalo wings to a serving platter and serve alongside celery sticks and blue cheese dressing, if desired.

Enjoy your crispy buffalo chicken wings while they’re hot!

Extra Tips:

For an extra crispy finish, consider baking the wings after frying them. Once they’re fried and tossed in the buffalo sauce, place them on a baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for an additional 10-15 minutes.

This will help to set the sauce and enhance the crispiness of the wings. Additionally, you can adjust the heat level of the buffalo sauce by mixing in some honey for sweetness or using a milder hot sauce to cater to different preferences at your party.

Chicken Satay Skewers

Chicken Satay Skewers are a delightful appetizer that brings a taste of Southeast Asia to your party table. These tender pieces of marinated chicken are grilled to perfection and served with a rich, creamy peanut sauce. The combination of savory chicken and nutty sauce makes for a crowd-pleasing dish that isn’t only flavorful but also easy to prepare.

Whether you’re hosting a casual gathering or a more formal event, these skewers are sure to impress your guests.

To make your Chicken Satay Skewers, the key is in the marinade. The chicken is typically soaked in a mixture of spices, soy sauce, and coconut milk, which helps to infuse it with flavor and guarantee it remains juicy while cooking.

Once marinated, the chicken is threaded onto skewers and grilled until charred and delicious. Serve with the peanut sauce for dipping, and you have a perfect appetizer that’s both satisfying and packed with flavor.

Ingredients (Serves 4-6):

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup coconut milk
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (adjust for spice preference)
• 12-15 wooden or metal skewers
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)

Cooking Instructions:

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a large mixing bowl, combine the soy sauce, coconut milk, brown sugar, vegetable oil, minced garlic, lime juice, cumin, coriander, turmeric, and chili powder. Whisk the ingredients together until well blended.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Add the bite-sized chicken pieces into the marinade, making sure each piece is well-coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to 4 hours for more intense flavor.
3. Soak the Skewers (if wooden): If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 30 minutes prior to grilling. This will prevent them from burning on the grill.
4. Preheat the Grill: While the skewers are soaking, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If using a grill pan, heat it on the stovetop over medium-high heat.
5. Thread the Chicken onto Skewers: Remove the marinated chicken from the refrigerator. Thread the chicken pieces onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each piece to guarantee even cooking.
6. Grill the Skewers: Place the skewers on the preheated grill. Grill for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
7. Serve with Peanut Sauce: Once cooked, remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a couple of minutes. Serve warm with a side of peanut sauce for dipping and garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.

Extra Tips:

To elevate your Chicken Satay Skewers, consider adding a squeeze of fresh lime juice over the top just before serving for an extra burst of flavor.

You can also experiment with different proteins like shrimp or tofu for a variation on the classic recipe. If you prefer a spicier peanut sauce, blend in some sriracha or red pepper flakes.

Finally, these skewers can be made ahead of time and grilled just before serving, making them a convenient choice for entertaining!

Cheesy Chicken Quesadillas

Cheesy Chicken Quesadillas are the perfect finger food for any party, combining the rich flavors of seasoned chicken with gooey melted cheese all wrapped in a crispy tortilla. These quesadillas aren’t only easy to make but also highly customizable, allowing you to add your favorite ingredients or adjust the spice level to suit your guests’ tastes.

Whether served as an appetizer or a main dish, they’re sure to be a hit with everyone. To elevate your party appetizers, consider serving these quesadillas with a variety of dips such as salsa, guacamole, or sour cream. They can also be prepared in advance and cooked just before serving, making them a convenient option for busy hosts.

With their enticing aroma and cheesy goodness, Cheesy Chicken Quesadillas will certainly have your guests coming back for more!

Ingredients (Serves 4-6)

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend)
• 1 cup bell peppers, diced (red, green, or yellow)
• ½ cup onions, diced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 large flour tortillas
• Cooking spray or additional olive oil for frying
• Optional toppings: sour cream, guacamole, salsa, or chopped cilantro

Cooking Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken Mixture: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onions and bell peppers, sautéing for about 3-4 minutes until they’re soft.

Next, add the shredded cooked chicken to the skillet along with garlic powder, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together and cook for another 3-5 minutes until heated through.

2. Assemble the Quesadillas: Take one flour tortilla and place it on a clean surface. On half of the tortilla, evenly spread a portion of the chicken mixture, then top with a generous amount of shredded cheese.

Fold the tortilla over to cover the filling and press down gently to seal.

3. Cook the Quesadillas: In the same skillet or a clean one, spray the bottom with cooking spray or drizzle a little olive oil and heat over medium heat. Carefully place the folded quesadilla in the skillet.

Cook for about 3-4 minutes on one side until it’s golden brown and crispy, then flip it over and cook the other side for another 3-4 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the tortilla is crispy.

4. Slice and Serve: Once cooked, remove the quesadilla from the skillet and let it cool for a minute. Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to slice it into wedges.

Repeat the process with the remaining tortillas and filling. Arrange the quesadilla wedges on a platter and serve warm with your choice of dips.

Extra Tips

For an added layer of flavor, consider marinating the chicken in lime juice and spices before cooking it. You can also experiment with different types of cheese or add additional ingredients such as black beans, corn, or jalapeños for a kick.

If you’re preparing these ahead of time, cook them as instructed, then reheat them in a hot skillet for a few minutes before serving to regain that crispy texture. Enjoy the delightful crunch and cheesy goodness of your Cheesy Chicken Quesadillas!

Spicy Chicken Meatballs

Spicy Chicken Meatballs are a delightful appetizer that will surely spice up your party. These tender, juicy meatballs are packed with flavor, thanks to a blend of spices and herbs that create a tantalizing kick. Perfect for dipping or serving on their own, these meatballs aren’t only easy to prepare, but they also make for an impressive dish that will have your guests coming back for more.

Pair them with a zesty dipping sauce, and you’ve got a winning party snack!

To make these spicy chicken meatballs, you’ll need ground chicken, which is a lean and flavorful protein choice. The addition of breadcrumbs and cheese guarantees the meatballs stay moist and tender, while the spices elevate the heat level. Whether you choose to bake or pan-fry, these meatballs will be a hit at your gathering. Serve them on a platter, and watch your guests rave about this delicious appetizer.

Ingredients (Serves 4-6):

• 1 pound ground chicken
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 large egg
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Olive oil (for cooking)
• Optional: Your favorite dipping sauce (like buffalo sauce or ranch dressing)

Cooking Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: If you’re opting to bake the meatballs, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This guarantees that the meatballs cook evenly and develop a nice golden color.
2. Mix the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, onion powder, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Use your hands (or a spatula) to mix until all ingredients are well incorporated, but be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatballs tough.
3. Form the Meatballs: Using your hands, scoop out about a tablespoon of the mixture and roll it into a ball. Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, guaranteeing they’re spaced apart to allow for even cooking.
4. Cook the Meatballs: If baking, place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the meatballs are cooked through and golden brown. If pan-frying, heat a couple of tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, then add the meatballs in batches, cooking for about 6-8 minutes until browned on all sides and cooked through.
5. Garnish and Serve: Once cooked, remove the meatballs from the oven or skillet and transfer them to a serving platter. Sprinkle with chopped parsley for a fresh touch, and serve with your favorite dipping sauce.

Extra Tips:

For an extra kick, feel free to experiment with the spices by adding cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the meatball mixture.

Additionally, you can prepare the meatballs ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to a day before cooking. This not only saves time on the day of your party but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

If you’re looking for a fun variation, consider adding chopped jalapeños or a dash of sriracha for even more heat!

Chicken Sliders With Coleslaw

Chicken sliders with coleslaw are the perfect finger food for your next gathering. These mini sandwiches are packed with flavor and are easy to prepare. The tender, juicy chicken paired with a crunchy, tangy coleslaw creates a delightful contrast that will have your guests coming back for seconds. Not only are they delicious, but they’re also customizable, allowing you to add your favorite seasonings or sauces to the chicken.

Making chicken sliders is a great way to serve a crowd without spending hours in the kitchen. You can prepare the chicken ahead of time and assemble the sliders just before serving. The coleslaw can also be made a day in advance to save you time on the day of your party. With a little preparation, these sliders are sure to be a hit!

Ingredients (serving size of 4-6 people):

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 12 slider buns
• 2 cups coleslaw mix
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon celery seed
• Optional: hot sauce for serving

Cooking Instructions:

1. Marinate the Chicken: Begin by marinating the chicken breasts in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight in the refrigerator. The buttermilk tenderizes the chicken and adds flavor, ensuring a juicy slider.
2. Prepare the Coleslaw: In a large mixing bowl, combine the coleslaw mix, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, and celery seed. Toss until everything is well coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 15-30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Bread the Chicken: Remove the chicken breasts from the buttermilk and let the excess drip off. In a shallow dish, mix together the flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Dredge each chicken breast in the flour mixture, ensuring an even coating.
4. Cook the Chicken: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add enough oil to cover the bottom. Once the oil is hot, add the breaded chicken breasts. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side or until they’re golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F). Remove from the skillet and let them rest for a few minutes before slicing.
5. Assemble the Sliders: Slice the cooked chicken breasts into smaller pieces that will fit on the slider buns. Place a piece of chicken on the bottom half of each bun, followed by a generous scoop of coleslaw. Top with the other half of the bun and secure with a toothpick if desired.
6. Serve: Arrange the sliders on a platter and serve with optional hot sauce on the side for those who enjoy a little extra heat.

Extra Tips: For a unique twist, try adding different spices to the flour mixture, such as cayenne pepper for heat or dried herbs for added flavor. You can also experiment with different types of buns, such as whole wheat or brioche, to match your party theme.

If you’re short on time, consider using store-bought rotisserie chicken to speed up the process. Enjoy your sliders with a side of pickles or chips for a complete party experience!

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bites

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bites are the perfect appetizer for any party, combining the bold flavors of garlic and the rich taste of Parmesan cheese. These bite-sized morsels aren’t only easy to make but are also a crowd-pleaser, guaranteeing your guests will be coming back for more.

The crispy exterior and juicy interior make these chicken bites a delightful treat that pairs well with dipping sauces or simply enjoyed on their own. This recipe is designed for a serving size of 4-6 people, making it an excellent choice for gatherings, game nights, or family dinners.

Preparing these chicken bites is straightforward, and they can be ready in less than an hour. Let’s plunge into the ingredients and cooking instructions to create these irresistible Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bites!

Ingredients:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, or a mix)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• Olive oil spray (or cooking spray)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature is ideal for achieving a crispy texture on the chicken bites while making sure they cook through evenly.

2. Prepare the Chicken: Take the boneless, skinless chicken breasts and cut them into bite-sized pieces, approximately 1-2 inches each. This size ensures that they’ll cook quickly and evenly.

3. Set Up Breading Stations: In three separate bowls, set up your breading stations. In the first bowl, place the all-purpose flour. In the second bowl, whisk the eggs until well combined. In the third bowl, mix the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, dried Italian herbs, salt, and black pepper.

4. Coat the Chicken: Take each piece of chicken and first coat it in the flour, shaking off any excess. Then dip it into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess egg to drip off. Finally, roll the chicken in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to make sure the breadcrumbs adhere well.

Repeat this process for all chicken pieces.

5. Arrange on Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray. Place the coated chicken bites on the baking sheet in a single layer, making sure they aren’t touching to promote even cooking.

6. Spray with Olive Oil: Lightly spray the top of the chicken bites with olive oil or cooking spray. This step helps the chicken bites achieve a golden-brown color and adds to the crunchiness.

7. Bake the Chicken Bites: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken bites are golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (75°C).

8. Garnish and Serve: Once cooked, remove the chicken bites from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy with your favorite dipping sauces like ranch, marinara, or garlic aioli.

Extra Tips:

For extra flavor, consider marinating the chicken pieces in a mixture of olive oil, garlic, and herbs for an hour before breading. This will enhance the taste and tenderness of the chicken.

Additionally, feel free to experiment with different cheese varieties or add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture for a spicy kick. Serve these bites hot and fresh out of the oven for the best experience!

BBQ Chicken Nachos

BBQ Chicken Nachos are a mouthwatering appetizer perfect for any gathering or party. This dish combines the smoky flavor of BBQ sauce with tender shredded chicken, melted cheese, and a variety of toppings, all served on crispy tortilla chips. Not only are they easy to make, but they also provide a fun and interactive way for guests to enjoy their food. Simply set out the platter, and let everyone dig in!

This recipe is great for serving 4-6 people, making it a fantastic option for game day, birthday parties, or casual get-togethers. The beautiful layering of flavors and textures creates an irresistible dish that will have your guests coming back for seconds.

Whether you choose to prepare your chicken from scratch or use rotisserie chicken for a shortcut, these nachos are sure to be a hit!

Ingredients:

• 2 cups shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie or homemade)
• 1 cup BBQ sauce (your choice of flavor)
• 8 oz tortilla chips
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 cup corn (canned or frozen)
• 1 jalapeño, sliced (optional)
• ½ cup diced red onion
• ½ cup sliced black olives (optional)
• 1 avocado, diced (for topping)
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Cooking Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will guarantee that your nachos cook evenly and the cheese melts beautifully.
2. Prepare the Chicken: In a medium bowl, combine the shredded chicken with the BBQ sauce. Confirm that the chicken is well-coated. If using rotisserie chicken, simply shred it with your hands or two forks for easy preparation.
3. Layer the Tortilla Chips: On a large baking sheet or oven-safe dish, spread the tortilla chips evenly to form a base. Make sure the chips aren’t overlapping too much to allow for even distribution of toppings.
4. Add the Chicken: Spoon the BBQ chicken mixture over the tortilla chips evenly, making sure to distribute it across the entire layer of chips. This will help assure every bite is flavorful.
5. Top with Cheese and Ingredients: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously over the BBQ chicken. Then, add the black beans, corn, jalapeño slices (if using), diced red onion, and black olives evenly across the nachos.
6. Bake the Nachos: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
7. Garnish and Serve: Once baked, remove the nachos from the oven and let them cool for a minute. Top with diced avocado and sprinkle fresh cilantro on top for added flavor and color. Serve immediately, while the cheese is still warm and gooey.

Extra Tips:

For a delicious twist, consider adding some additional toppings such as sour cream, guacamole, or salsa on the side for dipping.

You can also customize the nachos to suit your taste by incorporating other ingredients like diced tomatoes or different types of cheese.

Additionally, if you’re preparing this dish ahead of time, you can layer the ingredients in advance and bake just before serving to guarantee everything is fresh and warm. Enjoy your BBQ Chicken Nachos!

Coconut Chicken Tenders

Coconut Chicken Tenders are a delightful and crunchy appetizer that’s sure to impress your guests at any party. The combination of tender chicken breast coated in a crispy coconut and breadcrumb mixture creates a perfect balance of flavors and textures. This dish isn’t only easy to prepare but also adds a tropical flair to your appetizer spread.

Serve these tenders with a sweet and tangy dipping sauce for an added touch that will keep everyone coming back for more.

These chicken tenders can be baked or fried, depending on your preference. Baking them is a healthier option that still delivers that satisfying crunch, while frying gives them an extra crispy exterior. Either way, the aroma of coconut and spices will fill your kitchen, making it hard to resist sampling a few before they even make it to the serving platter.

Perfect for parties, game days, or simply as a fun dinner option, Coconut Chicken Tenders are a guaranteed hit!

Ingredients (Serves 4-6):

• 1 lb chicken breast tenders
• 1 cup shredded unsweetened coconut
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• Cooking oil (for frying or cooking spray for baking)

Cooking Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven or Heat Oil: If you choose to bake the tenders, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. If frying, heat about 1/2 inch of cooking oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Prepare the Coatings: In three separate bowls, set up your breading station. In the first bowl, place the all-purpose flour mixed with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. In the second bowl, beat the eggs until well combined. In the third bowl, mix together the shredded coconut and panko breadcrumbs until evenly distributed.
3. Bread the Chicken Tenders: Take each chicken tender and first coat it in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess. Next, dip it into the beaten eggs, ensuring it’s fully coated. Finally, roll the chicken in the coconut and panko mixture, pressing gently to adhere the coating.
4. Cook the Tenders: If baking, place the coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet and spray lightly with cooking spray. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through, flipping halfway through. If frying, carefully place the tenders in the hot oil and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until they’re golden and cooked through. Drain on paper towels after cooking.
5. Serve: Once cooked, transfer the tenders to a serving platter and allow them to cool slightly before serving. Pair with your favorite dipping sauce, such as sweet chili sauce or a honey mustard dip.

Extra Tips:

For an extra flavor boost, consider marinating the chicken tenders in a mixture of lime juice and coconut milk for a couple of hours before breading them. This not only enhances the coconut flavor but also keeps the chicken juicy and tender.

Additionally, feel free to experiment with different spices in the flour mixture to suit your taste preferences. If you’re short on time, using pre-made coconut shrimp or chicken nuggets can also be a quick alternative, though nothing beats the homemade version!