Description
Midwestern party magic shines through these Iowa party bites, delivering crispy, savory goodness with a hometown charm. Packed with local flavor and crowd-pleasing appeal, these irresistible morsels will elevate you from simple snacker to party hero.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Protein:
- 1 cup chicken, shredded
Cheese Ingredients:
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
Base and Sauce Ingredients:
- 1 package (12 ounces/340 grams) tortilla chips (small round or scoop type)
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
- 1/2 cup hot sauce (optional, adjust to taste)
- 1/4 cup parsley, fresh and chopped
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F, ensuring the rack is positioned in the center for even heating.
- Combine softened cream cheese, shredded chicken, ranch dressing, and optional hot sauce in a mixing bowl, blending thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and well-integrated.
- Arrange tortilla chips on a baking sheet or inside a muffin tin, creating a stable base for the filling.
- Carefully spoon the chicken mixture into each chip, distributing evenly and filling to the brim for maximum flavor.
- Generously top each filled chip with shredded cheddar cheese, covering the entire surface to create a melty, golden crust.
- Transfer the prepared baking sheet or muffin tin to the preheated oven, baking for 15-20 minutes until the cheese melts completely and chip edges turn golden brown.
- Remove from oven and allow to cool for 2-3 minutes, which helps the cheese set and prevents burning your mouth.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a vibrant touch and added freshness before serving warm to your guests.
- Present immediately to ensure the chips remain crisp and the cheese stays wonderfully melted.
Notes
- Adjust spice levels by controlling hot sauce amount, making it mild for kids or extra fiery for heat lovers.
- Swap chicken with pulled pork or vegetarian alternatives like black beans for dietary variety.
- Use gluten-free tortilla chips to create a celiac-friendly version of this crowd-pleasing appetizer.
- Prep mixture ahead of time and refrigerate, allowing flavors to meld together for enhanced taste profile.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snacks
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 345
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 24 g
- Saturated Fat: 12 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 25 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 13 g
- Cholesterol: 50 mg