Crispy Chicken Ham & Cheese Bites (Party Appetizer)

Golden, crispy chicken layered with ham and melted cheese, finished with seasoning on top. Perfect for parties or family meals.

Ingredients

2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Salt and black pepper, to taste
½ cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs
1 cup breadcrumbs or crushed crackers
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
8 slices ham
8 slices Swiss, mozzarella, or provolone cheese
2 tablespoons butter, melted
1 tablespoon poppy seeds or mixed dried herbs (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken

Slice each chicken breast horizontally into thinner pieces (cutlets).
Season both sides with salt and black pepper.

2. Set Up Breading Station

Place in three bowls:

Bowl 1: flour
Bowl 2: beaten eggs
Bowl 3: breadcrumbs mixed with garlic powder and paprika

Dip each chicken piece:

In flour
In egg
In breadcrumbs

Press gently so coating sticks well.

3. Fry or Bake the Chicken

Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook chicken until golden on both sides (about 3–4 minutes per side).
OR bake at 200°C (400°F) for 18–20 minutes until fully cooked.

4. Assemble the Stacks

Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).
Place cooked chicken pieces in a baking dish.

On each piece:

Add ½ slice ham
Add ½ slice cheese
Top with another chicken piece (to form a sandwich stack)

5. Add Topping

Brush tops with melted butter.
Sprinkle with poppy seeds or dried herbs.

6. Bake to Melt

Bake for 10–12 minutes until cheese melts and tops are lightly crisp.

Serving Suggestions

Serve hot
Cut into smaller pieces for appetizers
Serve with honey mustard, garlic sauce, or marinara

Storage

Refrigerate leftovers up to 3 days
Reheat in oven or air fryer for best texture

Variations

Use turkey instead of ham
Add a thin layer of mustard inside
Use cheddar or gouda cheese
Add a pinch of chili flakes for heat