14 Spring Chicken Appetizers

Spring is the perfect season to refresh your menu with light, flavorful, and vibrant appetizers. Chicken, being a versatile and crowd-pleasing protein, offers endless possibilities for delicious starters. Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together, a festive celebration, or a cozy evening with friends, these 14 spring chicken appetizers will add a burst of flavor and joy to your table.

From creamy dips to crispy bites, and from fresh salads to indulgent cheesy treats, this collection of recipes offers something for everyone. These appetizers are designed to be easy to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for springtime gatherings. Plus, many of these recipes cater to specific dietary preferences, such as keto or low-carb options, so you can accommodate all your guests needs. For more spring inspiration, check out our Best Spring Meals Recipes!

All images used in this post are courtesy of chickenrecipes.blog.

Crack Chicken Pinwheels

Crack Chicken Pinwheels are a delicious and easy-to-make appetizer that combines the flavors of ranch, cream cheese, and shredded chicken in a tortilla wrap. These pinwheels are perfect for spring gatherings because they’re light, flavorful, and fun to eat. The best part? They can be prepared in advance and served chilled or at room temperature.

Ingredients

– 1 (8 oz) package of cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup of ranch dressing mix
– 1 cup of shredded cooked chicken
– 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup of chopped green onions
– 1/4 cup of chopped bacon (optional)
– 1 package of large flour tortillas

Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and ranch dressing mix. Stir until well combined.
2. Add the shredded chicken, shredded cheddar cheese, green onions, and bacon (if using) to the bowl. Mix until everything is fully incorporated.
3. Lay a large flour tortilla flat on a clean surface. Spread a generous amount of the chicken mixture evenly across the tortilla, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Roll the tortilla tightly into a log shape. Repeat with the remaining tortillas and filling.
5. Refrigerate the rolled pinwheels for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
6. Slice each log into 1-inch thick rounds and serve.

Chicken Salad With Grapes

Chicken Salad with Grapes is a fresh and flavorful appetizer that’s perfect for spring. This salad combines tender chicken, juicy grapes, and crunchy celery, all tied together with a tangy dressing. It’s light, refreshing, and ideal for serving on crackers, toast, or even lettuce leaves.

Ingredients

– 2 cups of cooked, shredded chicken
– 1 cup of red grapes, halved
– 1/2 cup of celery, finely diced
– 1/4 cup of mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon of honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, grapes, and celery.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and honey until smooth.
3. Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and stir until everything is well coated.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
6. Serve chilled, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

Keto Chicken Salad

Keto Chicken Salad is a low-carb version of the classic chicken salad, making it perfect for those following a ketogenic diet. This recipe skips the grapes and uses a tangy mayo-based dressing instead. It’s rich, creamy, and packed with protein, making it a great option for a springtime appetizer or snack.

Ingredients

– 2 cups of cooked, shredded chicken
– 1/2 cup of mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup of chopped bacon (optional)
– 1/4 cup of chopped fresh dill
– 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard
– 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, mayonnaise, bacon (if using), fresh dill, Dijon mustard, and garlic powder.
2. Mix everything together until well combined.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled.

Buffalo Chicken Dip

 Buffalo Chicken Dip is a classic party favorite that’s spicy, creamy, and absolutely addictive. This dip combines shredded chicken, cream cheese, and buffalo wing sauce for a flavor that’s perfect for spring gatherings. Serve it with tortilla chips, crackers, or veggies for a delicious appetizer.

Ingredients

– 1 (12 oz) container of cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup of ranch dressing
– 1 cup of shredded cooked chicken
– 1/2 cup of buffalo wing sauce
– 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup of chopped green onions (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and ranch dressing. Stir until smooth.
3. Add the shredded chicken, buffalo wing sauce, and shredded cheddar cheese to the bowl. Mix until everything is well combined.
4. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with additional shredded cheese if desired.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Remove from the oven and sprinkle with chopped green onions if desired. Serve warm.

Crack Chicken Dip

Crack Chicken Dip is another addictive and delicious appetizer that’s perfect for spring gatherings. This dip combines cream cheese, ranch seasoning, and shredded chicken for a flavor that’s hard to resist. It’s creamy, savory, and perfect for serving with tortilla chips, crackers, or veggies.

Ingredients

– 1 (12 oz) container of cream cheese, softened
– 1 packet of ranch seasoning mix
– 1 cup of shredded cooked chicken
– 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup of chopped bacon (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and ranch seasoning mix. Stir until smooth.
3. Add the shredded chicken, shredded cheddar cheese, and chopped bacon (if using) to the bowl. Mix until everything is well combined.
4. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Remove from the oven and serve warm.

Boneless Buffalo Wings

Boneless Buffalo Wings are a fun and flavorful appetizer that captures the essence of traditional buffalo wings without the bones. Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, these bite-sized chicken pieces are tossed in spicy buffalo sauce and served with celery sticks and blue cheese dressing for dipping.

Ingredients

– 2 lbs of boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup of all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon of paprika
– 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon of onion powder
– 1/2 teaspoon of salt
– 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
– 1 cup of buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– 1/2 cup of buffalo wing sauce
– Celery sticks and blue cheese dressing for serving

Instructions

1. In a shallow dish, mix together the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Pour the buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip each piece of chicken into the buttermilk, coating it completely, then roll it in the flour mixture to coat.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry the chicken pieces in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 5-7 minutes per batch.
6. Remove the chicken from the oil with a slotted spoon and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
7. Toss the fried chicken pieces in buffalo wing sauce until evenly coated.
8. Serve hot with celery sticks and blue cheese dressing on the side.

Chicken Taquitos (Baked Or Fried)

Chicken Taquitos are a delicious and versatile appetizer that can be baked or fried depending on your preference. These crispy, rolled tortillas are filled with seasoned shredded chicken and cheese, making them a crowd-pleaser at any spring gathering.

Ingredients

– 2 cups of shredded cooked chicken
– 1/2 cup of shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack work well)
– 1/4 cup of chopped cilantro
– 1/4 cup of chopped green onions
– 1 tablespoon of lime juice
– 1 teaspoon of cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon of chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 package of small flour tortillas
– Vegetable oil for frying (if frying)

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, shredded cheese, chopped cilantro, green onions, lime juice, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
2. Lay a tortilla flat on a clean surface. Place a small amount of the chicken mixture in the center of the tortilla.
3. Roll the tortilla tightly into a cylinder shape. Repeat with the remaining tortillas and filling.
4. If baking, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the taquitos on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until crispy.
5. If frying, heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry the taquitos in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 3-5 minutes per side.
6. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.

Chicken Egg Roll

Chicken Egg Rolls are a tasty and easy-to-make appetizer that’s perfect for spring. These crispy rolls are filled with shredded chicken, cabbage, and carrots, and can be baked or fried depending on your preference. They’re a great option for a quick and delicious snack or appetizer.

Ingredients

– 1 package of egg roll wrappers (usually found in the frozen food section)
– 2 cups of shredded cooked chicken
– 1/2 cup of shredded cabbage
– 1/2 cup of shredded carrots
– 1/4 cup of chopped green onions
– 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons of oyster sauce (optional)
– 1 tablespoon of sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, shredded cabbage, shredded carrots, and chopped green onions.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), and sesame oil. Pour the mixture over the chicken and vegetables, and stir until everything is well combined.
3. Lay an egg roll wrapper flat on a clean surface. Place a small amount of the chicken mixture in the center of the wrapper.
4. Brush the edges of the wrapper with a little water. Fold the bottom half over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll up the wrapper to form a tight cylinder.
5. Repeat with the remaining wrappers and filling.
6. If baking, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the egg rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until crispy.
7. If frying, heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry the egg rolls in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 3-5 minutes per side.
8. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.

Easy Baked Chicken Meatballs

Easy Baked Chicken Meatballs are a simple and delicious appetizer that’s perfect for spring. These meatballs are made with ground chicken, breadcrumbs, and spices, and are baked to perfection in the oven. They’re tender, flavorful, and can be served with a variety of sauces.

Ingredients

– 1 lb of ground chicken
– 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together with your hands or a wooden spoon until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
3. Use your hands to shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter.
4. Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving a little space between each meatball to allow for even cooking.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and lightly browned on the outside.
6. Serve warm with your favorite marinara sauce, BBQ sauce, or a tangy aioli.

Keto Chicken Cheese Balls

Keto Chicken Cheese Balls are a delicious and indulgent appetizer that’s perfect for those following a ketogenic diet. These bite-sized balls are made with shredded chicken, cream cheese, and shredded cheese, and are baked to perfection. They’re rich, creamy, and absolutely addictive.

Ingredients

– 1 cup of shredded cooked chicken
– 8 oz of cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup of chopped green onions
– 1/4 cup of chopped bacon (optional)
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1/2 cup of almond flour
– 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, green onions, and bacon (if using). Mix until everything is well combined.
3. In a small bowl, mix together the almond flour, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Use your hands to shape the chicken mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
5. Roll each ball in the almond flour mixture to coat, then dip in the beaten egg and roll again in the almond flour mixture to coat evenly.
6. Place the cheese balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and firm to the touch.
8. Serve warm and enjoy!

Keto Chicken Nuggets

Keto Chicken Nuggets are a simple and delicious appetizer that’s perfect for those following a ketogenic diet. These nuggets are made with just three ingredients: chicken, cheese, and eggs. They’re crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, and can be baked or fried depending on your preference.

Ingredients

– 1 lb of ground chicken
– 1 cup of shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella work well)
– 1 egg

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, shredded cheese, and egg. Mix everything together with your hands or a wooden spoon until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
3. Use your hands to shape the mixture into small nugget-sized pieces.
4. Place the nuggets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through and lightly browned on the outside.
6. If frying, heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry the nuggets in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 5-7 minutes per side.
7. Serve warm and enjoy!

Crispy Chicken Nachos

 Crispy Chicken Nachos are a fun and flavorful appetizer that’s perfect for spring gatherings. This recipe combines crispy tortilla chips, shredded chicken, melted cheese, and a variety of toppings for a dish that’s both delicious and visually appealing.

Ingredients

– 1 bag of tortilla chips
– 1 cup of shredded cooked chicken
– 1 cup of shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack work well)
– 1/4 cup of diced onion
– 1/4 cup of diced tomatoes
– 1/4 cup of diced jalapeños
– 1/4 cup of sour cream
– 1/4 cup of salsa
– Cilantro for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Arrange the tortilla chips in a single layer on a large baking sheet.
3. Sprinkle the shredded chicken and shredded cheese evenly over the tortilla chips.
4. Top with diced onion, tomatoes, and jalapeños.
5. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Remove from the oven and top with sour cream, salsa, and cilantro (if using).
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

Air Fryer Chicken Tenders are a healthier and easier alternative to deep-fried chicken tenders. These tenders are marinated in a flavorful mixture of spices and cooked to perfection in the air fryer. They’re crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, making them a great appetizer for spring.

Ingredients

– 1 lb of chicken breast tenders
– 1/2 cup of buttermilk
– 1 tablespoon of hot sauce (optional)
– 1 cup of all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon of paprika
– 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon of onion powder
– 1/2 teaspoon of salt
– 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
– 1 tablespoon of olive oil

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and hot sauce (if using). Add the chicken tenders and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
2. In a shallow dish, mix together the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Remove the chicken tenders from the buttermilk mixture, allowing any excess to drip off.
4. Dredge the chicken tenders in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess.
5. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
6. Brush the bottom of the air fryer basket with olive oil.
7. Place the chicken tenders in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 10-12 minutes, or until cooked through and crispy.
8. Serve hot and enjoy!

Air Fryer Chicken Nuggets

Air Fryer Chicken Nuggets are a healthier and easier alternative to deep-fried chicken nuggets. These nuggets are made with ground chicken, breadcrumbs, and spices, and are cooked to perfection in the air fryer. They’re crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, making them a great appetizer for spring.

Ingredients

– 1 lb of ground chicken
– 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together with your hands or a wooden spoon until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
2. Use your hands to shape the mixture into small nugget-sized pieces.
3. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
4. Place the nuggets in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 10-12 minutes, or until cooked through and crispy.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!

These 14 spring chicken appetizers offer a variety of flavors and textures that are sure to impress your guests. Whether you’re looking for something light and fresh or rich and indulgent, there’s something on this list for everyone. So go ahead, get creative in the kitchen, and enjoy the delicious tastes of spring!