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A close-up of savory shredded chicken appetizers arranged on a platter.

Versatile Shredded Chicken Appetizers (Two Ways)

This recipe offers two delicious ways to transform shredded chicken into crowd-pleasing appetizers: creamy baked bites in pastry shells and a vibrant bruschetta topping, perfect for any gathering.
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Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings 12 appetizers
Calories 250 kcal

Equipment

  • Pot
  • Forks
  • Stand mixer (optional)
  • Baking sheet
  • Medium bowl

Ingredients
  

For the Shredded Chicken Base

  • 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (from about 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, or a rotisserie chicken)

For the Creamy Baked Bites (Method 1)

  • 1 block (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/4 cup chopped green onions
  • 1 tbsp ranch seasoning mix (or to taste)
  • cayenne pepper (optional, for a little kick)
  • 1 package (12 count) filo dough cups or mini puff pastry shells, thawed
  • fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

For the Zesty Bruschetta Topping (Method 2)

  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup chopped red onion
  • 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, quartered
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
  • 2 tbsp balsamic glaze
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 1 baguette, sliced and toasted or grilled for serving

Instructions
 

Preparing the Shredded Chicken

  • If cooking fresh chicken, boil or simmer chicken pieces in water or broth until cooked through, then remove and cool slightly.
  • Shred the cooked chicken using two forks or a stand mixer with a paddle attachment.

Method 1: Creamy Baked Bites

  • Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and arrange filo cups or pastry shells on a baking sheet.
  • Combine shredded chicken, softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, cheddar cheese, green onions, ranch seasoning, and optional cayenne pepper in a bowl, mixing until creamy.
  • Spoon the chicken mixture generously into each filo cup or pastry shell.
  • Bake for 12-15 minutes until the filling is heated through, lightly golden, and the pastry is crisp.
  • Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Method 2: Zesty Bruschetta Topping

  • In a bowl, combine shredded chicken with olive oil, minced garlic, red onion, quartered cherry tomatoes, and chopped fresh basil.
  • Drizzle with balsamic glaze, season with salt and pepper, and toss gently to combine.
  • Spoon the chicken bruschetta mixture onto toasted baguette slices for serving; this can be prepared ahead and assembled just before serving to prevent sogginess.

Notes

For extra flavor, consider marinating the fresh chicken breasts in some herbs and spices before cooking. When making the bruschetta, using good quality olive oil and balsamic glaze will significantly enhance the flavor of the topping. If you're short on time, a pre-cooked rotisserie chicken works wonderfully for the shredded chicken base.