10 Light Chicken Appetizers

Who says appetizers have to be heavy and packed with calories?

Let me show you how light, flavorful, and satisfying chicken appetizers can truly shine.

Think about grilled chicken skewers marinated in a tangy sauce, or tender bites of chicken garnished with fresh herbs and a hint of lemon.

Mini chicken Caesar salad cups and oven-roasted buffalo wings are perfect options that keep things light and delicious.

There’s a whole array of delightful chicken appetizers waiting to inspire your next gathering!

Grilled Chicken Skewers

Grilled Chicken Skewers are the perfect appetizer to start any meal or party. Not only are they delicious, but they’re also easy to prepare and cook. The marinade is packed with flavor from a combination of spices and herbs, and the grilling process brings out the juicy tenderness of the chicken, making it a hit among both adults and kids.

The skewers are versatile, and you can pair them with a variety of dips, sauces, or sides according to your preference. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue party or a potluck dinner, these Grilled Chicken Skewers will surely be a crowd-pleaser. The recipe serves 4 to 6 people, and you can easily adjust the quantities to cater to a larger group.

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 teaspoons dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 green bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 large onion, cut into 1-inch pieces
• Wooden skewers

Cooking Instructions:

1. Start by marinating the chicken. In a large bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried rosemary, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to guarantee all the ingredients are well combined.
2. Add the cut chicken pieces to the bowl and toss them until they’re well coated with the marinade. Cover the bowl and place it in the refrigerator. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 2 hours.
3. While the chicken is marinating, prepare your vegetables. Cut the red and green bell peppers and onion into 1-inch pieces.
4. Once the chicken is done marinating, preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
5. Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the wooden skewers, alternating with the bell peppers and onion.
6. Place the loaded skewers on the preheated grill. Cook for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
7. Remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.

Extra tips:

Soaking the wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before threading the ingredients onto them prevents them from burning on the grill. You can also experiment with different types of meat or vegetables according to your taste preference.

Try to cut all your ingredients into the same size pieces so they cook evenly. Remember, chicken is safe to eat when its internal temperature reaches 165°F, so use a meat thermometer to guarantee it’s cooked thoroughly. Enjoy your Grilled Chicken Skewers!

Lemon Herb Chicken Bites

Lemon Herb Chicken Bites are a delightful fusion of flavors that are sure to take your taste buds on a revitalizing journey. The succulent chicken drenched in tangy lemon juice, combined with the earthiness of fresh herbs, makes this dish a definite crowd-pleaser.

Ideal for family gatherings, parties, or a simple evening snack, these chicken bites can be served with a variety of dips to enhance the flavors even further.

This easy-to-make appetizer requires minimal preparation, and the cooking process is also uncomplicated. The key to this dish is the marinade, as it infuses the chicken with the flavors of lemon and herbs. Be sure to marinate the chicken for at least two hours to allow the flavors to seep in.

Now, let’s get started on the recipe.

Ingredients:

• 500 grams boneless chicken, cut into bite-sized pieces
• Juice of 2 large lemons
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 1 tablespoon of fresh rosemary, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon of fresh thyme, finely chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon of honey (optional)
• 1 tablespoon of butter

Cooking Instructions:

1. Start by preparing the marinade. In a bowl, combine the lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, olive oil, chopped rosemary, chopped thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
2. Add the chicken pieces to the marinade and mix until they’re all well coated. Cover the bowl and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least two hours.
3. After marination, heat a skillet over medium heat and melt the butter.
4. Once the butter has melted, add the marinated chicken pieces. Cook each side for about 5-7 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked and has a nice golden brown color.
5. If you prefer a hint of sweetness, drizzle honey over the cooked chicken bites and toss them well. This step is optional and can be skipped if desired.
6. Once the chicken bites are cooked, remove them from the skillet and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.

When cooking these Lemon Herb Chicken Bites, it’s crucial to not overcrowd the skillet when cooking the chicken pieces. This allows the chicken to cook evenly and achieve a delightful golden brown color.

Also, you can experiment with different herbs and spices to give these chicken bites your own unique twist. Enjoy this light and flavorful appetizer with your favorite dips and sauces.

Healthy Chicken Lettuce Wraps

Healthy Chicken Lettuce Wraps are a delicious and nutritious alternative to traditional appetizers. They’re light, invigorating, and packed with protein. This dish is perfect for those who are trying to maintain a healthy diet or for those who simply want a flavorful and satisfying appetizer. The crunchiness of the lettuce combined with the tender and flavorful chicken makes a delightful combination, while the special sauce adds an extra layer of taste.

Making Healthy Chicken Lettuce Wraps isn’t as complicated as it might seem. It only requires a few simple ingredients and takes approximately 30 minutes to prepare. This recipe is ideal for serving 4-6 people, making it perfect for small gatherings or family dinners.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 head of butter lettuce
• 1 red bell pepper, finely chopped
• 1 green onion, thinly sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions:

1. Start by slicing the chicken breasts into small, bite-sized pieces. Season with salt and pepper.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken pieces and cook until they’re golden brown and fully cooked. This should take about 10-12 minutes.
3. While the chicken is cooking, prepare the sauce. Mix the soy sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and minced ginger in a small bowl. Set aside for later.
4. Remove the cooked chicken from the pan and set aside. Using the same pan, add the minced garlic, chopped bell pepper, and sliced green onions. Saute these until they’re tender.
5. Once the vegetables are cooked, add the chicken back into the pan and pour the sauce over the top. Stir everything together, ensuring that the chicken and vegetables are well coated in the sauce.
6. Allow the mixture to cook for a few more minutes so that the flavors can meld together.
7. Finally, spoon the chicken mixture into the lettuce leaves to create the wraps.

When preparing the Healthy Chicken Lettuce Wraps, remember to not overcook the chicken as it can become dry and tough.

Also, feel free to add more vegetables like shredded carrots or water chestnuts for extra crunch. For those who want a little bit of heat, you can add some chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture. Enjoy these wraps as a healthy and delicious starter or as a light main dish.

Ginger Chicken Spring Rolls

When it comes to appetizers, nothing can beat the savory, tangy, and slightly sweet flavors of Ginger Chicken Spring Rolls. Hailing from the vibrant culinary tradition of Asia, these spring rolls are a perfect blend of juicy chicken, fresh vegetables, and a hint of ginger. Tossed in a light sauce and wrapped in a crispy shell, they’re certain to tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving for more.

These Ginger Chicken Spring Rolls aren’t just delicious, but also easy to prepare. Whether you’re planning a casual get-together or a formal dinner party, they make for a perfect appetizer. Serve them with a side of sweet and sour sauce or a tangy soy dip, and see your guests relishing every bite. This recipe is enough for 4-6 people.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb chicken breast, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons ginger, grated
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup carrots, julienned
• 1 cup bell peppers, julienned
• 1 cup cabbage, finely shredded
• 2 green onions, sliced
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 12 spring roll wrappers
• 1 egg, beaten
• Vegetable oil for frying

Cooking Instructions:

1. Start by marinating the chicken. In a bowl, combine chicken, ginger, garlic, soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, and pepper. Mix well and let it sit for 15-20 minutes.
2. Heat a pan over medium heat and add a tablespoon of oil. Add the marinated chicken and stir-fry until it’s cooked through. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add the carrots, bell peppers, cabbage, and green onions. Stir-fry for a couple of minutes until the vegetables are tender but still crunchy.
4. Combine the cooked chicken and vegetables in a bowl. This will be your filling for the spring rolls.
5. Lay a spring roll wrapper on a clean surface and place a spoonful of the filling in the center. Fold the sides over the filling, brush the edges with the beaten egg, and roll it up tightly.
6. Heat oil in a deep pan or fryer. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the spring rolls and fry until golden brown.
7. Use a slotted spoon to remove the spring rolls from the oil and drain on paper towels.
8. Serve hot with your choice of dipping sauce.

An important tip when making Ginger Chicken Spring Rolls is to ascertain that the filling isn’t too wet as it can make the wrappers soggy and hard to roll.

Also, while frying, make sure the oil is hot enough so that the spring rolls become crispy and not greasy. You can also prepare the filling in advance and refrigerate it to save time. Enjoy your cooking!

Light Chicken Satay With Peanut Sauce

Chicken Satay, a popular Southeast Asian dish, is typically made with grilled pieces of chicken served with tangy peanut sauce. This recipe lightens up the traditional version by using lean chicken breast and a lighter peanut sauce, making it a perfect appetizer for health-conscious guests. The chicken is marinated in a flavorful mix of spices and coconut milk before being grilled to perfection.

The accompanying peanut sauce, made with natural peanut butter and a splash of lime juice, is the perfect complement to the smoky, spicy chicken.

This Light Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce recipe is designed to serve 4-6 people. It’s a great choice for a dinner party or a family gathering where you want to serve a dish that’s tasty, but not too heavy.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup low-fat coconut milk
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp turmeric
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
• 1/2 cup natural peanut butter
• 2 tbsp lime juice
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1/4 cup water
• Bamboo skewers

Instructions:

1. Cut the chicken breasts into thin strips and place them in a large bowl.
2. In a separate bowl, combine the coconut milk, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, turmeric, and red pepper flakes. Pour this marinade over the chicken strips, making sure they’re all well-coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight if possible.
3. While the chicken is marinating, prepare the peanut sauce. In a small saucepan, combine the peanut butter, lime juice, honey, and water. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sauce is smooth and heated through.
4. Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium heat. While it’s heating, thread the marinated chicken strips onto the bamboo skewers.
5. Grill the chicken skewers for about 3-4 minutes on each side, until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks.
6. Serve the chicken skewers with the warm peanut sauce on the side for dipping.

Extra tips for cooking this dish include making sure to marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours to let the flavors really soak in. If you have extra time, marinating the chicken overnight will result in even more flavor.

Also, if you’re using wooden bamboo skewers, be sure to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent them from burning. Enjoy this light, flavorful twist on traditional chicken satay as a delicious appetizer at your next gathering.

Baked Buffalo Chicken Wings

Baked Buffalo Chicken Wings are the quintessential appetizer for any gathering. The dish combines the tanginess of buffalo sauce with the crispy texture of chicken wings, resulting in a flavorful bite that can make any party a hit. Additionally, this recipe is incredibly easy to prepare at home, and you can customize the spice level to your liking.

The wings are baked instead of fried, which not only makes them a healthier option but also guarantees they’re perfectly crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.

In this recipe, we’ll guide you through the process of making Baked Buffalo Chicken Wings. We’ll share the secret behind the perfect buffalo sauce and how to bake the wings to achieve that irresistible crunch. The serving size for this recipe is 4-6 people, making it ideal for a small gathering or a family dinner.

Ingredients:

• 3 lbs of chicken wings
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
• 1 cup of hot sauce
• 1/2 cup of unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons of white vinegar
• 1/2 teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon of onion powder
• Blue cheese dressing for serving
• Celery sticks for serving

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Rinely pat dry the chicken wings with paper towels.
3. Season the wings with salt and pepper and toss them in vegetable oil. Make sure all the wings are coated evenly.
4. Arrange the wings in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
5. Bake the wings in the preheated oven for about 40-45 minutes, turning them halfway through the baking time. The wings should be golden brown and crispy when done.
6. While the wings are baking, prepare the buffalo sauce. In a small saucepan, combine hot sauce, unsalted butter, white vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and onion powder.
7. Heat the sauce over medium heat until the butter is melted and the ingredients are well combined. Stir occasionally to prevent the sauce from sticking to the pan.
8. Once the wings are baked, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes.
9. Toss the baked wings in the buffalo sauce until they’re well coated.
10. Serve the wings with blue cheese dressing and celery sticks on the side.

Extra tips:

Make sure you pat dry the chicken wings thoroughly before baking. Any excess moisture can prevent the wings from becoming crispy.

For a spicier kick, you can add more hot sauce to your buffalo sauce. Remember to turn the wings halfway through baking to make sure they cook evenly.

You can also broil the wings for a few minutes after baking for extra crispiness. Enjoy your homemade Baked Buffalo Chicken Wings!

Spicy Chicken Taco Cups

Indulge in the fiery flavors of Spicy Chicken Taco Cups, a unique twist on the beloved Mexican classic. Perfect for parties, game nights, or just a fun family dinner, these bite-sized chicken appetizers are sure to be a hit. The combination of tender chicken, tangy cheese, spicy salsa, and crunchy tortilla shells provides a flavor explosion that will have everyone reaching for more.

What makes these chicken taco cups so irresistible is the perfect balance of textures and flavors. The spicy chicken is packed with Mexican spices, adding depth and warmth to the dish. The cheese adds a creamy, gooey contrast, while the salsa cuts through with its zesty freshness. The tortilla cups, which are baked until they’re crisp and golden, add the perfect finishing touch with their satisfying crunch.

To make Spicy Chicken Taco Cups for 4-6 people, you’ll need:

• 2 chicken breasts, diced
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• 1 cup shredded Mexican blend cheese
• 1 cup spicy salsa
• 24 mini tortilla shells
• 1/2 cup diced onions
• 1/2 cup diced bell peppers
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro and lime wedges for garnishing

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onions, bell peppers, and minced garlic. Cook until they’re softened and the onions become translucent.
3. Add the diced chicken to the skillet. Season with taco seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook until the chicken is thoroughly cooked and the spices are well distributed.
4. Scoop a spoonful of the spicy chicken mixture into each mini tortilla shell. Top with a spoonful of salsa and a sprinkle of shredded cheese.
5. Arrange the filled tortilla cups on a baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the tortilla cups are crisp.
6. Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges on the side.

When preparing the Spicy Chicken Taco Cups, using freshly shredded cheese instead of pre-shredded varieties will yield a better melt and richer flavor.

For a vegetarian version, replace the chicken with an equal amount of black beans or sautéd vegetables.

And remember, the level of spiciness can be adjusted according to your preference by using mild or hot salsa, or even adding a dash of hot sauce to the chicken mixture. Enjoy these bite-sized delights and let your taste buds set forth on a spicy journey!

Mini Chicken Caesar Salad Cups

Mini Chicken Caesar Salad Cups are a delightful appetizer that adds a classic touch to any gathering. They aren’t only delicious but also a healthier option for those who want to enjoy their favorite Caesar salad in a more portion-controlled way.

The savory chicken, coupled with the crisp romaine lettuce and creamy Caesar dressing, all served in a crunchy wonton cup, creates a harmonious blend of textures and flavors that will surely impress your guests.

This recipe is easy to prepare and can be made in under an hour. It’s perfect for parties, potlucks, or even a light lunch or dinner. This appetizer is a crowd-pleaser that can be served to 4-6 people.

Ingredients:

• 12 wonton wrappers
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 cups of chopped romaine lettuce
• 1/2 cup of Caesar dressing
• 1/4 cup of shredded Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup of croutons
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. While the oven is heating, brush each wonton wrapper with olive oil on both sides. Press them into a muffin tin to form a cup shape.
2. Bake the wonton wrappers in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes or until they’re golden brown and crispy. Remove them from the oven and let them cool.
3. While the wonton cups are cooling, season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the chicken until it’s no longer pink in the middle. This should take about 5-7 minutes per side.
4. Once the chicken is cooked, let it cool for a few minutes then chop it into bite-sized pieces.
5. In a large bowl, combine the chopped chicken, romaine lettuce, Caesar dressing, and shredded Parmesan cheese. Toss everything together until it’s well coated with the dressing.
6. Spoon the chicken Caesar salad mixture into the cooled wonton cups. Top each cup with croutons for some extra crunch.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Extra Tips:

• You can prepare the wonton cups and the chicken Caesar salad mixture ahead of time. However, only assemble them right before serving to prevent the wonton cups from getting soggy.
• Feel free to add more ingredients to your salad mixture. Some great additions could be cherry tomatoes, avocado, or even some bacon bits for extra flavor.
• If you prefer a vegetarian option, you can omit the chicken and add more vegetables or even some tofu. Remember, this recipe is quite versatile, and you can tailor it to your liking.

Healthy Chicken Bruschetta Bites

Healthy Chicken Bruschetta Bites are a perfect appetizer that pack a punch of flavor. These little bites are made with chicken breasts, juicy tomatoes, fresh basil, and a tangy balsamic glaze, all served on a crispy baguette slice. Not only are they delicious, they’re also a healthier option for those looking to enjoy a satisfying appetizer without the guilt.

The key to making these bites mouthwateringly good is to use fresh ingredients. Fresh tomatoes and basil make a world of difference in the taste of the bruschetta topping. The chicken should be cooked just until it’s no longer pink in the middle, to keep it juicy and tender. The balsamic glaze adds a nice tangy sweetness that complements the other flavors perfectly.

Ingredients:

• 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 1 French baguette
• 4 ripe tomatoes
• 1 bunch of fresh basil
• 1/4 cup of balsamic glaze
• 2 cloves of garlic
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Slice the baguette into 1-inch thick rounds and arrange them on a baking sheet. Drizzle with a tablespoon of olive oil and bake for about 10 minutes or until they’re crispy and golden.
3. While the baguette slices are baking, dice the chicken breasts into small, bite-sized pieces. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until they’re no longer pink in the middle, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
5. Dice the tomatoes and mince the garlic. Chop the fresh basil leaves.
6. In a bowl, combine the cooked chicken, diced tomatoes, minced garlic, chopped basil, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper.
7. Once the baguette slices are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a moment.
8. Top each baguette slice with a spoonful of the chicken bruschetta mixture.
9. Drizzle the balsamic glaze over the top of each bruschetta bite.
10. Serve immediately and enjoy your Healthy Chicken Bruschetta Bites!

When preparing these Healthy Chicken Bruschetta Bites, make sure not to overcook the chicken to keep it tender and juicy. You can also make the bruschetta mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to assemble and serve. This can save you time and make the process even easier.

Also, feel free to experiment with adding other ingredients to your bruschetta mix, such as mozzarella cheese or olives, to suit your personal preference.

Oven-Roasted Chicken Drumettes

Oven-roasted chicken drumettes are the perfect appetizer for any gathering. These finger foods are flavorful, juicy, and easy to eat, making them a crowd favorite. The chicken drumettes are seasoned with a mix of savory spices, roasted in the oven to perfection, and can be served with various dipping sauces. This recipe is simple, yet it delivers a dish that everyone will love.

Cooking the chicken drumettes in the oven guarantees that they’re cooked evenly, resulting in a tender, juicy meat with a beautifully browned and crispy skin. This recipe also includes a step of marinating the drumettes, which infuses them with flavor and tenderizes the meat. Let’s plunge into how to make these oven-roasted chicken drumettes.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs of chicken drumettes
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 1 teaspoon of salt
• 1 teaspoon of black pepper
• 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon of onion powder
• 1 teaspoon of paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon of dried thyme
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
• Your favorite dipping sauce for serving (optional)

Cooking Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). While the oven is heating, place the chicken drumettes into a large mixing bowl.
2. Drizzle the drumettes with olive oil. This will help the spices stick to the chicken and also aid in browning the skin during roasting.
3. In a small bowl, combine the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and dried thyme. Mix these together until they’re well combined.
4. Sprinkle the spice mix over the chicken drumettes. Toss the drumettes until they’re evenly coated with the spice mix. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
5. Arrange the drumettes on a baking sheet in a single layer. Make sure they aren’t touching to guarantee they cook evenly.
6. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast the drumettes for 20 minutes. After 20 minutes, flip the drumettes over and roast for another 20 minutes or until they’re fully cooked and the skin is crispy and browned.
7. Remove the drumettes from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve with your favorite dipping sauce.

Extra Tips:

Marinating the drumettes prior to roasting is key to achieving flavorful, juicy chicken. If time allows, you can marinate the drumettes in the spice mix for a few hours or even overnight for a more intense flavor.

Also, flipping the drumettes halfway through the cooking time guarantees that they cook evenly and the skin gets crispy on all sides. Remember to serve the drumettes with a side of napkins, as they can get a bit messy to eat!