10 Cold Chicken Appetizers

Hosting a soirée?

I have just the thing to impress your guests!

Let’s talk about ten fabulous cold chicken appetizers that are sure to be a hit.

From classic Asian Chicken Lettuce Wraps to the exciting Chicken and Avocado Sushi Rolls, there’s something for every palate.

These easy-to-make dishes can be prepared in advance, giving you more time to enjoy the party!

Chicken Caesar Salad Cups

Chicken Caesar Salad Cups are a brilliant and innovative way to serve and enjoy the classic Caesar Salad with a twist. These elegant appetizers are sure to be a hit at any gathering, combining the fresh, crisp flavors of Caesar salad with the savory goodness of chicken in a convenient, bite-sized package. Cold and invigorating, they’re the perfect choice for a summer party or a sophisticated event where you want to impress your guests with your culinary creativity.

The secret to making these appetizer cups is to choose fresh, high-quality ingredients and marinate the chicken thoroughly for maximum flavor. Each cup is filled with a delicious combination of marinated chicken, crispy lettuce, creamy Caesar dressing, and a sprinkling of Parmesan cheese, all served in a crunchy wonton cup. Not only does this recipe taste fantastic, but it’s also quick and easy to prepare, making it a great option for busy hosts who want to offer their guests something a little bit different.

Ingredients:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/2 cup Caesar dressing, plus extra for drizzling
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 24 wonton wrappers
• 2 heads of romaine lettuce, chopped
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup croutons, crushed

Instructions:

1. Begin by marinating the chicken breasts. In a bowl, combine the chicken, Caesar dressing, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Cover and refrigerate for at least an hour, or overnight for best results.
2. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Arrange the wonton wrappers in a muffin tin, pressing them into the shape of a cup. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and crispy. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool.
3. While the wonton cups are cooling, cook the chicken. Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade, discarding any excess, and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is fully cooked and no longer pink in the middle. Remove from heat and let it cool before cutting it into bite-sized pieces.
4. Assemble the salad cups. In each wonton cup, place a generous amount of chopped romaine lettuce. Top with the cooked, chopped chicken, a drizzle of Caesar dressing, a sprinkling of Parmesan cheese, and some crushed croutons.
5. Serve immediately, or refrigerate until ready to serve.

When making these Chicken Caesar Salad Cups, remember that the quality of the ingredients is key. Fresh, crisp lettuce will make a big difference in the final result, as will a high-quality Caesar dressing.

You can also add other ingredients to the cups, such as cherry tomatoes or bacon bits, for extra flavor and texture. And remember, these cups are best served cold, so they’re perfect for making ahead and storing in the fridge until your guests arrive. Enjoy the ease and elegance of these unique appetizers at your next gathering.

Pesto Chicken Pinwheels

Pesto Chicken Pinwheels are a delightful cold appetizer perfect for any gathering. They aren’t only appealing to the eyes but are also packed full of flavors that will have your guests coming back for more. The combination of tender chicken, fresh basil pesto, and creamy cheese all wrapped up within a flaky puff pastry makes for an unforgettable appetizer.

They can be made ahead of time and served chilled, making them a convenient choice for parties and events. This recipe is convenient, easy to prepare, and yields a delicious result. Pesto Chicken Pinwheels are a cold chicken appetizer that can be whipped up in less than an hour, and the ingredients are simple and readily available.

If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing appetizer that doesn’t require a lot of fuss, these pinwheels are a great choice.

Ingredients for 4-6 servings:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup of basil pesto
• 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 sheet of puff pastry
• 1 egg
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions:

1. Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Cook the chicken breasts either by grilling or boiling until they’re fully cooked. Once cooked, allow them to cool, then shred them into small pieces.
3. Roll out the puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface into a rectangular shape.
4. Spread the basil pesto evenly over the entire surface of the puff pastry, leaving a small border around the edges.
5. Sprinkle the shredded chicken over the pesto, followed by the shredded mozzarella cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Starting at one end, tightly roll up the pastry like a jelly roll and pinch the edges to seal.
7. Cut the roll into 1-inch thick slices and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
8. In a small bowl, beat the egg and brush it over the top of the pinwheels.
9. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the pinwheels are golden brown and the cheese is melted. Allow them to cool before serving.

Extra Tips:

Remember to keep the puff pastry as cold as possible before rolling it out; this will make it easier to handle and result in a flakier crust.

Also, be sure to let the pinwheels cool before serving, as this will help them hold their shape and allow the flavors to meld together. You can even make these a day ahead and refrigerate them, then simply take them out about 30 minutes before serving to allow them to come to room temperature.

Enjoy these Pesto Chicken Pinwheels as a delicious start to any meal or gathering!

Asian Chicken Lettuce Wraps

Asian Chicken Lettuce Wraps are a revitalizing and healthy cold appetizer that are perfect for any gathering. This dish, originating from Asia, is a delightful combination of tender chicken, crisp lettuce, and a flavorful sauce. The chicken is marinated in a savory blend of traditional Asian flavors, then sautéed until tender. The warm chicken mixture is then served in crisp lettuce cups, providing an invigorating crunch with every bite. This dish can be served cold, making it a perfect make-ahead appetizer for any occasion.

One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. You can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your taste, or substitute the chicken for tofu or shrimp for a vegetarian or pescatarian option. Despite its exotic origins, this recipe uses ingredients that are readily available in your local supermarket. The recipe serves 4-6 people, making it an ideal appetizer for small gatherings.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 head of iceberg lettuce
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 inch piece fresh ginger, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 2 green onions, sliced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• Sesame seeds for garnish

Cooking Instructions:

1. Begin by cutting the chicken into small, bite-sized pieces. This guarantees that the chicken cooks evenly and fits well into the lettuce cups.
2. In a bowl, combine the soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, and minced ginger. Add the chicken pieces to the bowl and let them marinate for at least 20 minutes.
3. While the chicken is marinating, prepare your vegetables. Wash and dry the lettuce, then separate it into individual leaves to create the cups. Dice the red bell pepper and slice the green onions.
4. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the vegetable oil. Once the oil is hot, add the marinated chicken and cook until it’s no longer pink in the middle.
5. Add the diced red bell pepper to the skillet and continue cooking for another 2-3 minutes, until the pepper is tender.
6. Once the chicken and peppers are cooked, remove the skillet from the heat. Spoon the chicken mixture into the prepared lettuce cups, then garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds.

When preparing this dish, remember that the key to a flavorful chicken is marination. The longer you marinate the chicken, the more flavorful it will be. You can even marinate it overnight for maximum flavor.

Also, be sure to use fresh ginger and garlic rather than their powdered counterparts for the best results. Finally, don’t overcook the bell peppers; they should still have a bit of crunch to them. Enjoy this delicious cold appetizer at your next gathering!

Mini Chicken Salad Croissants

Mini Chicken Salad Croissants make for a delightful cold chicken appetizer that you can serve at parties, picnics, or as a light lunch option. The unique blend of creamy chicken salad with the rich, buttery flavor of croissants makes this dish a favorite among both kids and adults.

It’s a straightforward recipe that even beginners can master, and the result is a crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s bound to impress.

One of the best aspects of this recipe is its versatility. You can customize the chicken salad according to your liking, adding more veggies or even fruits for a hint of sweetness. The mini croissants provide the perfect bite-sized portion, making this appetizer easy to serve and eat.

Whether you’re hosting a small gathering or looking for something new to include in your family meals, these Mini Chicken Salad Croissants are a must-try.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups of cooked chicken, shredded
• 1/2 cup of celery, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup of red onion, finely chopped
• 1/3 cup of mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup of sour cream
• 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 12 mini croissants
• Lettuce leaves for garnish (optional)

Cooking Instructions:

1. Begin by preparing your chicken salad. In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, finely chopped celery, and red onion.
2. Next, add in the mayonnaise, sour cream, and Dijon mustard. Stir all the ingredients together until well combined.
3. Season your chicken salad with salt and pepper to taste. Be sure to mix well after seasoning to ascertain the flavors are evenly distributed.
4. Once the chicken salad is ready, slice the mini croissants in half. Be careful not to cut all the way through, as you want to create a pocket for the chicken salad.
5. Fill each mini croissant with a generous spoonful of the chicken salad. If desired, you can garnish each croissant with a small lettuce leaf for added color and crunch.
6. Chill your Mini Chicken Salad Croissants in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This will allow the flavors to blend together and enhance the overall taste.

Extra Tips:

When preparing the Mini Chicken Salad Croissants, you can opt to make the chicken salad a day ahead to save time on the day of your event. Just make sure to store it properly in the refrigerator.

Also, using a good quality mayonnaise and sour cream will greatly enhance the flavor of your chicken salad. Finally, if you prefer a sweeter taste, you can add some chopped fruits like apples or grapes to your chicken salad for an exciting twist.

Spicy Chicken Tortilla Roll-Ups

When it comes to cold appetizers, Spicy Chicken Tortilla Roll-Ups stand out as a flavorful and satisfying option. These bite-sized treats pack a punch with their spicy chicken filling, wrapped in soft tortillas and served chilled. Perfect for parties, get-togethers, or even as a light lunch, these roll-ups are sure to be a hit with your guests.

What’s more, they’re easy to prepare ahead of time, saving you from the last-minute rush in the kitchen. The spicy chicken filling is a delightful combination of shredded chicken, cream cheese, and a blend of spices that give these roll-ups their kick. The tortillas add a contrast to the spicy filling, adding a soft and comforting element to each bite.

Served cold, these roll-ups are a revitalizing change from the usual hot appetizers, making them an instant favorite at any gathering.

Ingredients:

• 3 cups of shredded chicken
• 8 oz of cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup of salsa
• 1/2 cup of chopped green onions
• 1 tablespoon of taco seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
• 8 large flour tortillas

Cooking Instructions:

1. Start by preparing the filling for the roll-ups. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, salsa, chopped green onions, taco seasoning, and cayenne pepper. Mix until all the ingredients are well incorporated.
2. Lay a tortilla flat on your work surface. Spread a generous amount of the chicken filling evenly over the tortilla, leaving a small border around the edges.
3. Starting from one end of the tortilla, roll it up tightly, making sure the filling stays inside. Repeat this process with the remaining tortillas and filling.
4. Once all the roll-ups are prepared, cover them with plastic wrap and place them in the refrigerator to chill for at least 2 hours, or until they’re firm.
5. After the roll-ups have chilled, remove them from the refrigerator. Using a sharp knife, cut each roll-up into bite-sized pieces.
6. Arrange the cut roll-ups on a serving platter, and they’re ready to serve.

Extra Tips:

When preparing the Spicy Chicken Tortilla Roll-ups, make sure to roll the tortillas tightly to prevent the filling from spilling out. If you have the time, allow the roll-ups to chill in the refrigerator overnight. This not only makes them easier to cut, but also allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in a tastier appetizer.

For a vegetarian option, you can replace the chicken with black beans or grilled vegetables. Remember, the key to a perfect roll-up is a balance between the filling and the tortilla, so don’t overstuff your roll-ups.

Cold Chicken Pasta Salad

Cold Chicken Pasta Salad is a classic dish that’s perfect for parties, picnics, or any gathering. The combination of tender, chilled chicken, crisp vegetables, and hearty pasta tossed in a zesty dressing makes it a crowd-pleaser.

It’s a versatile dish that can be prepared ahead of time and served cold, making it an ideal dish for a busy host. This recipe can be easily doubled or halved to suit your needs.

The key to a perfect Cold Chicken Pasta Salad lies in the balance of flavors. The savory chicken, the freshness of the vegetables, the robust pasta, and the tangy dressing all blend together to create a harmony of taste.

The variety of textures adds an appealing element to this dish. It’s a simple recipe that packs a punch of flavor that will have your guests coming back for seconds.

Ingredients:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 cups of uncooked pasta
• 1 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cucumber, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1/2 cup of red onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup of black olives, sliced
• 1/2 cup of feta cheese, crumbled
• 1/4 cup of fresh basil, chopped
• 1/2 cup of extra virgin olive oil
• 1/4 cup of red wine vinegar
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions:

1. Start by cooking the chicken breasts. Season them with salt and pepper, then grill or bake until thoroughly cooked. Allow the chicken to cool, then dice into bite-sized pieces.
2. While the chicken is cooling, cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and let it cool.
3. In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, diced chicken, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, red onion, black olives, feta cheese, and fresh basil.
4. For the dressing, combine the extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Whisk until well combined.
5. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until everything is well coated. Taste and adjust the seasonings if necessary.
6. Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

Some extra tips for this Cold Chicken Pasta Salad recipe: You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience and added flavor.

Feel free to substitute or add other vegetables like sweet corn or avocado based on your preference. If you want to make this recipe ahead of time, add the dressing just before serving to keep the pasta and vegetables crisp.

This salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Chicken and Avocado Sushi Rolls

Chicken and Avocado Sushi Rolls are a revitalizing cold appetizer perfect for any occasion. The tender chicken is beautifully complemented by the creamy avocado, all wrapped up in a traditional sushi roll. This dish is a fusion of flavors that’s sure to impress your guests, providing a taste of Asia with a twist. Not only are these sushi rolls delicious, they’re also quite easy to make at home.

You don’t need to be a sushi master to prepare these rolls. All you need are a few simple ingredients and a sushi mat, which are readily available in most supermarkets or online. The chicken is cooked and then cooled before being added to the sushi, making it a perfect make-ahead appetizer. The rolls can be made a few hours ahead of time and kept in the fridge until ready to serve.

Ingredients:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 ripe avocado
• 1 cup sushi rice
• 1 ½ cups water
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 4 sheets nori (seaweed)
• Soy sauce for dipping

Instructions:

1. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a pan over medium heat and cook the chicken until it’s no longer pink in the center. Allow the chicken to cool and then slice it into thin strips.
2. Cook the sushi rice according to the package instructions. Once cooked, stir in the rice vinegar and sugar, then allow the rice to cool.
3. Cut the avocado into thin slices.
4. Place a sheet of nori onto the sushi mat. Spread a layer of the cooled sushi rice onto the nori, leaving a small border at the top to seal the roll.
5. Lay a few slices of chicken and avocado onto the rice.
6. Roll the sushi using the mat, applying pressure to keep the roll tight. Wet the top border of the nori to seal the roll.
7. Repeat the process with the remaining ingredients.
8. Once the rolls are complete, use a sharp knife to cut them into bite-sized pieces.
9. Serve the sushi rolls with soy sauce for dipping.

When making these Chicken and Avocado Sushi Rolls, it’s important to make sure the chicken is fully cooled before adding it to the sushi. If the chicken is still hot, it could make the sushi rice become mushy.

Also, when rolling the sushi, be sure to apply even pressure to keep the roll tight. If the roll is too loose, it may fall apart when being cut into pieces. Enjoy this delightful cold appetizer that’s sure to impress your guests at your next gathering.

Tangy Chicken Bruschetta Bites

When you’re planning a get-together or a party, cold appetizers can be a lifesaver. They’re easy to prepare, don’t require reheating, and can be enjoyed by everyone. One such appetizer that’s bound to please your guests is Tangy Chicken Bruschetta Bites. This dish takes the classic Italian bruschetta and adds a chicken twist, making it a hearty and delicious appetizer that’s perfect for any event.

The Tangy Chicken Bruschetta Bites are small, bite-sized treats that are bursting with flavor. The tangy chicken, combined with the freshness of the tomatoes and the crunch of the bread, create a delightful texture and taste. Furthermore, this cold appetizer doesn’t require any last-minute cooking or reheating, so you can prepare it in advance and spend your time mingling with your guests.

Ingredients for 4-6 servings:

• 2 chicken breasts
• 1 cup of cherry tomatoes
• 1 small red onion
• 2 cloves of garlic
• 1 small bunch of fresh basil
• 1 baguette
• 3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons of balsamic vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions:

1. Start by cooking the chicken breasts. You can either grill, bake, or pan-fry them. Once cooked, let them cool and then chop into small cubes.
2. Chop the cherry tomatoes, red onion, and garlic into small pieces.
3. In a large bowl, combine the chopped chicken, tomatoes, onion, and garlic.
4. Chop the fresh basil and add it to the mixture.
5. Drizzle the mixture with the extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Add salt and pepper to taste.
6. Stir everything together until the ingredients are well combined.
7. Slice the baguette into thin rounds and lightly toast them.
8. Spoon the chicken mixture onto each slice of toasted baguette.
9. Your Tangy Chicken Bruschetta Bites are now ready to be served!

Extra cooking tips: This recipe is versatile, and you can add other ingredients to your liking. Some popular additions include chopped olives, feta cheese, or even a sprinkle of chili flakes for some heat.

For a healthier version, consider using whole grain bread instead of a baguette. Remember, the key to a great bruschetta is in the freshness of the ingredients, so use the freshest produce you can find for the best results.

Creamy Chicken-Stuffed Tomatoes

Creamy Chicken-Stuffed Tomatoes are a delicious and sophisticated appetizer that’s sure to impress your guests. This cold appetizer is perfect for summer gatherings or special occasions, with its blend of juicy tomatoes, creamy chicken filling, and fresh herbs. Not only is it visually appealing, but it also explodes with flavors in every bite.

One of the best things about this recipe is that it’s simple and easy to make. It would only take about 30 minutes of your time, but the result is a stunning appetizer that looks like it took hours to prepare. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover chicken.

Now, let’s get started with the ingredients and steps to make Creamy Chicken-Stuffed Tomatoes for 4-6 people.

Ingredients:

• 8 medium-sized ripe tomatoes
• 2 cups of cooked chicken, shredded
• 1 cup of cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup of mayonnaise
• 2 green onions, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Cooking Instructions:

1. Start by prepping your tomatoes. Cut the tops off and scoop out the insides to create a hollow shell. Be careful not to pierce the skin of the tomato. Set aside.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cream cheese, mayonnaise, chopped green onions, and minced garlic. Mix until all the ingredients are well incorporated.
3. Season the chicken mixture with salt and pepper according to your preference. Give it a quick taste to make sure the seasoning is balanced.
4. Using a spoon, fill each hollowed tomato with the creamy chicken mixture. Make sure to fill them just up to the brim to prevent spilling.
5. Once all the tomatoes are filled, place them in the refrigerator to chill for at least 2 hours before serving. This will allow the flavors to meld together.
6. When ready to serve, garnish each tomato with a fresh basil leaf on top.

Cooking this appetizer is relatively straightforward, but there are a few tips that can help you achieve the best results. Choose ripe but firm tomatoes to guarantee they hold their shape after being hollowed out.

Also, if your chicken mixture is too thick, you can add a little more mayonnaise to achieve the desired consistency. Finally, don’t skip the chilling time as it’s vital for the flavors to develop fully.

Enjoy your Creamy Chicken-Stuffed Tomatoes!

Lemon-Pepper Chicken Skewers

Lemon-Pepper Chicken Skewers are the perfect cold chicken appetizer to serve at your next party, family gathering or even as a tasty snack for a lazy Sunday afternoon.

Whether it’s a formal event or a casual get-together, these skewers are sure to be a hit. The tangy flavor of lemon and the kick of pepper make an irresistible combination that your guests will love. Plus, they’re easy to eat and even easier to make.

These skewers are a great make-ahead dish. You can prepare them the night before your event and just pop them into the fridge. By the time your guests arrive, you’ll have a delicious and revitalizing appetizer ready to serve. The best part is, they’re healthy and packed with proteins, making them a great choice for those who are watching their diet.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast
• 2 lemons
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons freshly ground black pepper
• 1 tablespoon salt
• 1 bunch fresh parsley, finely chopped
• Wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes

Cooking Instructions:

1. Start by cutting the chicken breasts into bite-size pieces. This will make them easier to skewer and cook evenly.
2. In a large bowl, combine the juice of the two lemons, olive oil, minced garlic, ground black pepper, and salt. Mix well to combine.
3. Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring that all pieces are well coated. Cover the bowl and let the chicken marinate in the fridge for at least 2 hours. Overnight is best.
4. Once the chicken has marinated, thread the pieces onto the soaked wooden skewers.
5. Place the skewered chicken on a baking sheet and broil in the oven for about 10 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and slightly charred.
6. Remove the skewers from the oven and let them cool. Sprinkle with the finely chopped fresh parsley just before serving.

Extra Tips:

When making these Lemon-Pepper Chicken Skewers, be sure to marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours. This will allow the flavors to really permeate the meat.

Also, soaking the skewers in water beforehand can prevent them from burning in the oven. Finally, if you’d like to add some extra tanginess to the dish, consider serving these skewers with a side of lemon wedges. Guests can squeeze fresh lemon juice over the skewers for an added burst of flavor.