These cute phyllo cups are filled with a tasty mixture of chicken, crunchy walnuts, and tart cranberries. They make for a bright and cheerful snack or appetizer!
Each bite is a delightful mix of flavors and textures. Honestly, they’re so good that I might just make them for lunch and skip sharing! 😄
I love how simple they are to whip up. Just mix the salad, fill the cups, and you’re ready to go. Perfect for parties or just a fun treat at home!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Use cooked chicken breast, either diced or shredded. If you’re short on time, grabbing a rotisserie chicken works wonders. It’s ready to go and stays super moist.
Mayonnaise & Greek Yogurt: I love mayonnaise for richness, and Greek yogurt adds creaminess with some tang. If you’re looking for lighter options, swap with avocado or a tahini-based dressing.
Dried Cranberries: They give a sweet-tart flavor that’s perfect here. If cranberries aren’t available, raisins or chopped dried cherries can work just as well!
Walnuts: I find walnuts add a lovely crunch! You can substitute with pecans or almonds if you prefer other nuts, or omit altogether for a nut-free version.
Phyllo Cups: Store-bought is quick, but you can also make your own by layering phyllo dough. Don’t forget to butter each layer to keep them crisp!
How Do I Make Perfectly Crispy Phyllo Cups?
Getting your phyllo cups just right is easier than you might think. Here’s how to achieve that perfect crispiness:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- If making your own cups, start with phyllo dough sheets, brushing each sheet with melted butter.
- Layer at least 5-6 sheets for stability, then cut into squares that fit a mini muffin tin.
- Bake for about 10 minutes, keeping an eye on them so they don’t burn. You want them golden and crispy!
Once baked, let them cool slightly before adding your chicken salad. Enjoy these crunchy treats! They’ll impress your family and friends every time.
Cranberry Walnut Chicken Salad Phyllo Cups
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Salad:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt (optional, for creaminess)
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped
- 1/4 cup celery, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Phyllo Cups:
- 12 phyllo cups (store-bought or homemade)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take about 15 minutes of preparation time, plus an additional 10 minutes if you are making the phyllo cups from scratch. If you’re using store-bought phyllo cups, you can whip these up in just 15 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken Salad:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced or shredded chicken, mayonnaise, and Greek yogurt (if using). Stir until everything is well mixed.
2. Add the Flavorful Ingredients:
Add the dried cranberries, chopped walnuts, celery, red onion, fresh parsley, and lemon juice to the chicken mixture. Stir gently to make sure everything is combined evenly and the flavors blend together.
3. Season to Taste:
Give your chicken salad a taste. Season it with salt and freshly ground black pepper according to your preference! Don’t be shy; it really brings out the flavor!
4. Prepare the Phyllo Cups:**
If you don’t have ready-made phyllo cups, you can make them yourself. Layer buttered phyllo dough sheets in a mini muffin tin and bake them at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until they are golden and crisp.
5. Fill the Cups:
Spoon the chicken salad generously into each phyllo cup. Fill them well — they should look inviting and delicious!
6. Add Final Touches:
Garnish with a few extra dried cranberries and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a lovely presentation. Your guests will appreciate the extra flair!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Arrange the phyllo cups on a serving platter. You can serve them immediately, or if you’d like, chill them briefly in the fridge before serving. Enjoy these delightful snacks with family and friends!
These savory and sweet phyllo cup appetizers combine the wonderful flavors of chicken salad with tart cranberries and crunchy walnuts. They are sure to be a hit!
Can I Use Store-Bought Rotisserie Chicken?
Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken saves time and adds great flavor. Just shred the chicken and mix it into the salad like you would with cooked chicken breast.
How Do I Store Leftover Chicken Salad?
Store any leftover chicken salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the salad separate from the phyllo cups if possible, so they remain crisp.
Can I Make Phyllo Cups Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare phyllo cups a day in advance. Just keep them in an airtight container at room temperature, and fill them just before serving to maintain their crunchiness.
What Other Ingredients Can I Add?
Feel free to customize the salad! You can add chopped apples, grapes, or bell peppers for extra crunch and flavor. Experiment with seasonings like garlic powder or dill to make it your own!
