Chicken & Olive Bread Basket Recipe – Easy Appetizer Idea

Last Updated on 2 months by Neha Deshmukh

Chicken & Olive Bread Basket Recipe – Easy Appetizer Idea

Hey everyone! I’m always on the lookout for quick and easy appetizers, especially when friends are coming over unexpectedly. These Chicken & Olive Bread Baskets are a lifesaver – they look impressive, taste amazing, and honestly, come together in under 20 minutes! I first made these for a game night with my cousins, and they were gone in a flash. They’re the perfect savory bite, and I’m so excited to share the recipe with you.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These bread baskets are seriously addictive! They’re crispy, cheesy, and packed with flavor. Plus, they’re incredibly versatile – you can easily customize the filling to your liking. They’re a fantastic way to use up leftover chicken, and they’re always a hit at parties. Honestly, who doesn’t love a little bread, cheese, and chicken combo?

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up these delightful little baskets:

• 6 large bread slices
• As required mayonnaise
• As required dried parsley
• ½ cup shredded chicken (about 125g)
• ¼ cup sliced black olives (about 30g)
• To taste pepper
• As required mozzarella cheese (about 85g)

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients! The beauty of this recipe is that it uses things you probably already have in your kitchen.

• Bread: Any soft, large bread slices will work beautifully. I usually use white bread, but whole wheat or even a slightly sweet bread like challah adds a lovely touch.
• Chicken & Olives: The combination of shredded chicken and salty olives is chef’s kiss! It’s a classic pairing that just works. Feel free to use pre-shredded chicken to save time.
• Mozzarella: I prefer using shredded mozzarella because it melts so nicely, but you can also use fresh mozzarella, sliced or cubed.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get baking! It’s easier than you think.

1. Preheat your oven to 200°C (392°F). While the oven heats up, grease a 6-cup muffin pan really well. This is important so the baskets don’t stick!
2. Now, take those bread slices and gently flatten them with a rolling pin. Don’t go too thin, just enough to make them a little more pliable. I like to trim the crusts off for a neater look, but that’s totally optional.
3. Carefully press each flattened bread slice into a muffin cup, forming a little basket. Pre-bake these for about 5 minutes, until they start to crisp up. This helps them hold their shape.
4. Once the bread baskets are slightly firm, spread a little mayonnaise inside each one. This adds moisture and flavor. Then, sprinkle a bit of dried parsley over the mayo – it looks pretty and adds a fresh touch.
5. Divide the shredded chicken and sliced olives evenly among the bread baskets. Don’t be shy with the filling!
6. Finally, top everything with a generous amount of mozzarella cheese.
7. Bake for another 12-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown. Let them cool for a minute or two before serving.

Expert Tips

Here are a few things I’ve learned over the years to make these bread baskets perfect every time:

• Don’t skip the pre-baking step! It really helps the bread hold its shape and prevents soggy bottoms.
• Grease the muffin pan well. Seriously, don’t skimp on this.
• Get creative with the filling! Feel free to add other veggies, cheeses, or spices.

Variations

Want to switch things up? Here are a few ideas:

• Spice Level: Add a pinch of chili flakes to the chicken mixture for a little kick. My brother loves this!
• Festival Adaptations: These are perfect for game day, potlucks, or any casual gathering. They’re always a crowd-pleaser.
• Different Cheeses: Try cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even a sprinkle of Parmesan for a different flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions

These Chicken & Olive Bread Baskets are best served warm. They make a fantastic appetizer, a light lunch, or even a fun snack. I love serving them with a side of ranch dressing or a simple green salad.

Storage Instructions

If you happen to have any leftovers (which is unlikely!), you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat them in the oven or microwave before serving. They’re best enjoyed fresh, though!

FAQs

Let’s answer some common questions:

1. Can I use leftover roast chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! Leftover roast chicken is perfect for this. Just make sure it’s shredded before adding it to the bread baskets.

2. What type of bread works best for these baskets?

Any soft, large bread slices will do. White bread, whole wheat, or challah are all great options.

3. Can these be made ahead of time?

You can pre-bake the bread baskets and store them in an airtight container for a few hours. But I recommend adding the filling and cheese just before baking for the best results.

4. Is it possible to freeze these bread baskets?

I wouldn’t recommend freezing them after they’re assembled, as the bread can get soggy. However, you can freeze the pre-baked bread baskets for up to a month.

5. What can I substitute for olives if I don’t like them?

If you’re not a fan of olives, you can substitute them with chopped sun-dried tomatoes, bell peppers, or even mushrooms.

Enjoy! I hope you love this recipe as much as my family does. Let me know in the comments how yours turn out!