This fun and tasty treat combines juicy chicken, crunchy walnuts, and sweet cranberries, all wrapped in crispy phyllo cups. Perfect for parties or a quick snack!
Who can resist that flaky, buttery goodness? Every bite feels like a little celebration on your plate. I love topping them with extra cranberries for a pop of color and flavor!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: Use leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken for convenience. If you’re vegetarian, you can replace it with chickpeas or tofu for a similar texture.
Mayonnaise: I prefer regular mayonnaise for creaminess, but you can opt for light mayonnaise or an avocado spread for a healthier twist!
Greek Yogurt/Sour Cream: Greek yogurt adds a nice tang. You can swap this for any plain yogurt, or use a dairy-free option if you’re vegan.
Dried Cranberries: These add sweetness and chewiness. If you don’t have cranberries, raisins or chopped apples work well, too.
Walnuts: They bring in a lovely crunch. If you have nut allergies, seeds like sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds make great substitutes.
Phyllo Cups: Store-bought phyllo cups are easy to use, but if you can’t find them, you can also make your own with sheets of phyllo dough, layered and baked in muffin tins.
How Do You Keep Phyllo Cups Crispy?
Keeping those phyllo cups crispy is essential for the best texture. Here’s how to achieve that:
- Fill the phyllo cups just before serving. This prevents them from getting soggy.
- Make sure your filling is not too wet. Drain any excess liquid from ingredients like yogurt or mayonnaise.
- Consider toasting the phyllo cups in the oven for a few minutes before filling them to enhance crispiness.
Applying these tips will help you serve crispy, delicious cups every time! Enjoy these fun little bites at any gathering!
Cranberry Walnut Chicken Salad Phyllo Cups
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup green onions, finely sliced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 12 phyllo cups (mini tart shells made from phyllo dough)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of preparation time. If you choose to chill the chicken salad before serving, add an additional 30 minutes to let the flavors meld. Overall, you can have these delicious phyllo cups ready in just under an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken Salad Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken breast, mayonnaise, and Greek yogurt (or sour cream). Use a spoon or spatula to mix until everything is well blended. This creates a creamy base for your chicken salad.
2. Add in the Flavorful Ingredients:
Next, fold in the dried cranberries, chopped walnuts, parsley, and green onions. Stir gently to distribute these ingredients evenly throughout the chicken mixture. This step adds a wonderful crunch and burst of flavor!
3. Season to Taste:
Sprinkle in salt and pepper to taste, and give it another gentle mix. If you prefer a creamier texture, feel free to adjust the amount of mayonnaise or yogurt accordingly.
4. Fill the Phyllo Cups:
Now, it’s time to assemble! Spoon a generous amount of the chicken salad into each phyllo cup. Don’t be shy—fill them up for the best taste!
5. Garnish and Serve:
If you’d like, you can garnish each filled cup with a walnut half and an extra dried cranberry for that beautiful touch. Arrange the cups on a serving platter and serve them immediately or refrigerate until you’re ready to dig in.
Enjoy these delightful appetizers that balance creamy, crunchy, sweet, and savory flavors all in a crisp phyllo shell! They’re sure to be a hit at any gathering!
Can I Use Rotisserie Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and adds delicious flavor. Just shred or dice the chicken as needed, and you’re good to go!
Can I Prepare This Salad in Advance?
Yes, you can make the chicken salad up to a day in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Just fill the phyllo cups right before serving to keep them crispy!
How Should I Store Leftover Chicken Salad?
Store any leftover chicken salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. However, it’s best not to freeze it as the texture may change when thawed. You can enjoy it again in wraps or on a green salad!
What Can I Use Instead of Phyllo Cups?
If phyllo cups are unavailable, you can make your own by layering phyllo sheets in a muffin tin and baking until golden. Alternatively, use mini tart shells or even endive leaves for a fresh, low-carb option.