These Kentucky Hot Brown Bites are a fun twist on the classic dish! They are mini sandwiches filled with turkey, creamy cheese sauce, and topped with crispy bacon. Yum!
Every bite is rich and delicious, and they are perfect for parties or just a cozy night in. I love serving them with some fresh veggies on the side—great for a tasty balance!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shredded Chicken: You can use rotisserie chicken for a quick option. If you prefer, turkey works great too! It’s traditional in the Hot Brown but chicken is just as tasty.
Mayonnaise: This adds creaminess, but you can swap it for Greek yogurt for a lighter touch or sour cream for a tangy flavor.
Cheeses: Monterey Jack and Parmesan combine beautifully. If you can’t find Monterey Jack, feel free to use cheddar or even a mix of your favorites to change the flavor profile.
Crescent Roll Dough: You can also use biscuit dough for a fluffier bite. If you’re avoiding gluten, look for gluten-free dough options.
Bacon: Turkey bacon is a great substitute for a healthier option, or use crumbled breakfast sausage for a different twist.
How Do You Get the Dough Just Right for Mini Bites?
Getting the dough to fit perfectly in the mini muffin cups can be tricky but is key for a great bite. Here’s how to do it:
- Roll out the crescent or biscuit dough a bit to make it easier to cut.
- Use a round cutter or the top of a glass to cut out rounds that fit the muffin cups.
- Press the dough gently into the cups, making sure to go up the sides a little. This helps hold the chicken mixture well and creates a nice pocket.
Make sure the dough is secure at the bottom to prevent any leaking during baking! Enjoy crafting these tasty bites!
Kentucky Hot Brown Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken breast
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Dough:
- 1 package refrigerated crescent roll dough or biscuit dough
For the Toppings:
- 8 slices bacon, cooked until crispy and chopped
- Cherry tomatoes, halved
- Fresh chives, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take you about 10 minutes to prepare and 15 minutes to bake, making a total of about 25 minutes. It’s quick and easy, perfect for a fun appetizer or party dish!
Let’s Get Cooking!
1. Preheat and Prepare:
First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a mini muffin pan with cooking spray or butter to prepare for your bites.
2. Make the Filling:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, mayonnaise, Monterey Jack cheese, Parmesan cheese, Worcestershire sauce, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together until it’s smooth and well mixed. This is where all the delicious flavors come together!
3. Prepare the Dough Cups:
Unroll the crescent roll or biscuit dough, and cut circles that will fit into the mini muffin pan. Press the dough rounds firmly into the bottom and up the sides of each muffin cup, forming small cups that will hold your filling.
4. Fill Them Up:
Spoon the chicken filling mixture evenly into each of the dough cups. Don’t be afraid to pack it down gently to ensure they’re full and tasty!
5. Bake to Perfection:
Now it’s time to bake! Place the mini muffin pan in the oven and bake for about 15 minutes, or until the dough is golden brown and the filling is heated through nicely. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
6. Add the Toppings:
Once baked, remove the bites from the oven. Top each one with a piece of crispy bacon and a half cherry tomato for a pop of color and flavor.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish with chopped fresh chives for an extra touch of freshness. Serve these warm and watch them disappear—they’re sure to be a hit!
Can I Use Leftover Turkey Instead of Chicken?
Absolutely! Leftover turkey works perfectly in this recipe and keeps with the spirit of the Hot Brown. Just make sure it’s shredded and ready to mix!
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
You can substitute the crescent roll or biscuit dough with a gluten-free dough alternative available at most grocery stores. Just ensure to check the cooking instructions for any adjustments.
Can I Prepare the Filling Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can mix up the filling a day in advance! Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, assemble the cups with the dough and proceed as directed.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover Kentucky Hot Brown Bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warm, or microwave them for a quick option.
