Imagine biting into a perfectly golden, crispy tart shell filled with creamy, savory chicken that melts in your mouth - these Mini Chicken Tarts are about to become your new secret weapon in the kitchen! Whether you're hosting a sophisticated cocktail party or looking for a crowd-pleasing appetizer that takes minimal effort, these delightful bite-sized treats will have your guests begging for the recipe. In just 50 minutes, you'll transform simple ingredients into an elegant and delicious dish that looks like it came straight from a gourmet restaurant.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 12 tarts
Ingredients
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
- 1/2 cup cream cheese
- 1/2 cup bell pepper, diced
- 1 package mini tart shells
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Ensure the rack is positioned in the center of the oven for even baking.
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, softened cream cheese, diced bell peppers, and chopped green onions. Mix thoroughly until well incorporated.
- Season the chicken mixture with salt and pepper, stirring to distribute the seasonings evenly.
- Arrange the mini tart shells on a baking sheet, keeping them evenly spaced.
- Carefully spoon the chicken and cream cheese mixture into each tart shell, filling them to the top but not overflowing.
- Place the filled tart shells in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the edges of the tart shells turn golden brown and the filling is heated through.
- Remove from the oven and let the tarts cool for 5 minutes. This allows the filling to set and prevents burning.
- Transfer the mini tarts to a serving platter. Garnish with additional chopped green onions if desired.
- Serve warm and enjoy as an appetizer or light meal.
Tips
- Ensure your cream cheese is softened at room temperature for easier mixing and a smoother filling.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of dried herbs like thyme or parsley to the chicken mixture.
- Use rotisserie chicken for a quick time-saving hack that adds extra flavor.
- Don't overfill the tart shells - leave a small space at the top to prevent overflow during baking.
- For a golden, glossy finish, you can brush the edges of the tart shells with an egg wash before baking.
- These tarts can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated, then baked just before serving for maximum convenience.
- Experiment with different protein options like shredded turkey or even vegetarian alternatives like seasoned tofu.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 85kcal
Carbohydrates: 6g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 20mg
