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In the world of appetizers, Mini BBQ Chicken Polenta Bites stand out for their delightful combination of textures and flavors. These bite-sized treats offer a crispy exterior with a creamy polenta base, topped with savory BBQ chicken and melted cheese. They are the epitome of comfort food, bringing together the richness of cornbread-like polenta and the smokiness of barbecue sauce in a format that is easily shareable and perfect for any occasion.

Mini BBQ Chicken Polenta Bites

Discover the delicious world of Mini BBQ Chicken Polenta Bites! These irresistible appetizers feature a crispy polenta base topped with savory BBQ chicken and melted cheese, making them perfect for any occasion. Easy to prepare, they combine comforting textures and flavors that will impress your guests. Serve them at parties, game day, or family gatherings for a fun, shareable snack. Dive into this scrumptious recipe and elevate your appetizer game!
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Ingredients
  

1 cup polenta

4 cups water or chicken broth

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

Salt and pepper to taste

1 cup cooked shredded chicken

1/2 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)

1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese

1/4 cup green onions, finely chopped (for garnish)

Cooking spray (for the muffin tin)

Instructions
 

Prepare Polenta:

    In a medium saucepan, bring 4 cups of water or chicken broth to a boil. Once boiling, slowly whisk in the polenta to prevent lumps. Reduce the heat to low and cook, stirring frequently, for about 15-20 minutes until the polenta thickens and pulls away from the sides of the pan.

      Season the Polenta:

        Stir in the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well and set aside to cool slightly.

          Preheat Oven:

            Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

              Fill Muffin Tin:

                Lightly grease a mini muffin tin with cooking spray. Spoon the polenta mixture into each muffin cup, pressing down gently to create a firm base. Fill each cup about 2/3 full. Use a spatula to smooth the tops.

                  Bake the Polenta Bases:

                    Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes.

                      Prepare BBQ Chicken:

                        In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken with the BBQ sauce, mixing until the chicken is well coated.

                          Assemble Bites:

                            Carefully remove the polenta bites from the muffin tin. Top each polenta base with a heaping spoonful of the BBQ chicken mixture.

                              Add Cheese:

                                Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the BBQ chicken on each polenta bite.

                                  Final Bake:

                                    Return the assembled bites to the oven and bake for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

                                      Garnish and Serve:

                                        Once done, remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.

                                          Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour | Servings: 24 mini bites