Chicken Artichoke Bites

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When it comes to entertaining, having finger foods that are not only delicious but also easy to prepare can make all the difference. These Chicken Artichoke Bites are the perfect solution for your next gathering. With their flaky, buttery phyllo shells and a creamy, savory filling, these bites will be a hit with your guests. This delightful appetizer combines tender shreds of chicken with artichoke hearts, fresh spinach, and a blend of cheeses, all lovingly cradled in a crispy phyllo shell. It’s a flavor experience that’s as good as it sounds, and they disappear quickly!

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

If you’re looking to impress your guests or just want to treat yourself to something special, these Chicken Artichoke Bites are an absolute must-try. They are rich in flavor and texture, featuring smoky bacon, creamy cheeses, and zesty artichokes. Not only are they delicious, but they’re also incredibly easy to prepare, making them a practical choice for any occasion. Whether it’s a casual game night, a festive celebration, or a simple family dinner, these bites will make your table sing!

Ingredients

• 45 phyllo shells
• 1 cup cooked and shredded chicken
• 2 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 6 strips bacon, cooked and chopped, divided
• 7 ounces canned artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
• ½ cup fresh spinach, chopped
• ¼ cup mayo
• 1 cup smoked Gouda, shredded
• ½ cup Havarti, shredded
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper
• Salt and pepper to taste

How To Make Chicken Artichoke Bites

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Phyllo Shells

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. This will be the perfect base for your Chicken Artichoke Bites.

Step 2: Cook the Bacon

In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until it’s crispy. Once cooked, remove the bacon from the skillet and let it cool on a paper towel to absorb the excess grease. Once cooled, chop into small pieces, reserving half for topping.

Step 3: Make the Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, softened cream cheese, chopped artichoke hearts, chopped spinach, mayo, smoked Gouda, Havarti, minced garlic, onion powder, and cayenne pepper. Add salt and pepper to taste. Mix everything together until well combined. The texture should be creamy and slightly chunky, with all the flavors intermixed beautifully.

Step 4: Assemble the Bites

Take each phyllo shell and fill it with about a tablespoon of the chicken artichoke mixture. Do not overfill, as this can cause them to overflow while baking. Once filled, sprinkle a little of the chopped bacon on top of each bite for added flavor.

Step 5: Bake

Place the filled phyllo shells on the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the shells are golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them, as baking time may vary based on your oven.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Once done, remove the bites from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. These Chicken Artichoke Bites are best enjoyed warm, fresh from the oven, and can be served with your choice of dipping sauce, if desired.

Expert Tips

• To save time, you can use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking your own chicken from scratch.
• Don’t skip on the bacon! It adds a wonderful smokiness that complements the other flavors perfectly.
• Feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can reduce or omit the cayenne pepper.
• Make sure your phyllo shells are fully thawed before using them to ensure they bake evenly.

Variations and Customizations

• Add other veggies like diced bell peppers or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor.
• Substitute the cheese with your favorite varieties like cheddar or pepper jack for a different twist.
• For a vegetarian option, you can use lentils or chickpeas instead of chicken and skip the bacon.
• Add fresh herbs like dill or parsley for a pop of freshness in your filling.

How to Store Leftovers

Leftover Chicken Artichoke Bites can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through. This will help restore their crispiness and ensure they taste fresh.

FAQ

Can I make the filling ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the filling up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just fill the phyllo shells and bake them right before serving for optimal freshness.

Can I freeze the Chicken Artichoke Bites?

Yes, these bites freeze beautifully! Assemble the phyllo shells with the filling, then flash freeze them on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container. When ready to bake, no need to thaw; just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

What kind of dipping sauce goes well with these bites?

These bites are delicious on their own, but they pair wonderfully with a creamy garlic dip or a tangy ranch dressing. You could also serve them with a zesty marinara sauce for an Italian twist!

Can I use fresh artichokes instead of canned?

While canned artichoke hearts are convenient, you can certainly use fresh artichokes if you prefer. Make sure to cook them until tender, and chop them finely for the best texture in your filling.

Conclusion

These Chicken Artichoke Bites are the ultimate party pleaser, combining flavor, texture, and ease of preparation into a delightful bite-sized treat. Whether you’re serving them at a gathering or enjoying them during a cozy night in, they’re bound to become a favorite in your recipe collection. With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you can whip up these delightful bites in no time. Go ahead and treat yourself (and your guests) to this delicious appetizer—you won’t regret it!

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