Maple Barbeque Chicken Bites
Medically reviewed by Christiana George Updated Date: December 18, 2022
Here’s a little Superbowl inspired treat for you. I realize it’s not a sweet, but it does have maple syrup in it and barbeque sauce, and bacon. Come on, you can’t go wrong with bacon. Just so you know, I was not born into a sports loving family, not did I marry into one. The closest I get is every four years my husband watches World Cup Soccer and I may watch a game or two, but we are not fanatics about it. So Superbowl day is just another day for me. I just had this idea for a chicken appetizer and thought it would make a great game day snack for those that party it up.
Apparently I didn’t notice the bottle of mayo was upside down when I took the picture. Silly me!
You can cook your bacon anyway you like, in the oven, in the microwave, or on the stove-top. You just need to chop it into little bits after it is cooked. As for the chicken, you can use fresh cooked chicken (about 2 cups), but I just used canned chicken. It doesn’t taste that much different when cooked and it’s a time-saver.
This recipe is based on the Pampered Chef Lemon Herb Chicken Ring I used to make all the time for parties. It’s an easy recipe to make and adaptable. I used to make the ring on a round stone, but I got rid of my stoneware a while back, because I got tired of trying to clean it. Now I just use a perforated pizza pan. It works just as well. I lay out all the crescent triangles in a circle with each piece slightly overlapping, then I use a small roller to seal them together and stretch them out a bit.
Then I spoon the filling onto the wider part of the triangles and spread it out evenly with a spatula. Next I started tucking the points of the triangles in towards the center of the ring and under the wide part of the triangles. Not all the filling will be covered by the crescent rolls. In the end, you should have a nice crescent wreath.
After it is baked, it will be a nice golden color. You need to let it cool off a bit before you cut it up into appetizer sized portions.
See all those bits of bacon. Nom, Nom! It tastes great just as is, but I wanted to make a dipping sauce to go along with it. I used the same barbeque sauce and maple syrup that I used in the ring to make the sauce.
The maple syrup really enhanced the flavor of the barbeque sauce, especially the smoky flavor. I can see this sauce poured over quite a few dishes. I only made a little bit of sauce for dipping or drizzling over each slice. If you are going to slather it on, I suggest doubling the sauce recipe.
My husband and daughter really enjoyed these Maple Barbeque Chicken Bites with the dipping sauce. We ended up having them for dinner. I had placed them in the fridge this afternoon and just warmed them back up in the oven before serving. I even warmed up the sauce a little in the microwave. Ooh, it’s so delightfully tangy and sweet. A perfect compliment to the Chicken Bites. Bacon, chicken, barbeque sauce, and maple syrup, my new favorite flavor combination.
Maple Barbeque Chicken Bites
by The Sweet Chick
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Keywords: bake appetizer entree sandwich snack bacon maple syrup chicken barbeque sauce Super Bowl American
Ingredients (24-26 servings)
For the chicken bites
- 1 can (10 oz.) chunk white chicken (or two 5 oz. cans), drained
- 4 slices cooked bacon
- 1 cup (4 oz.) shredded Swiss cheese
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
- 2 teaspoons Kraft Original Barbecue Sauce
- 2 packages ( 8 oz. each) refrigerated crescent rolls
For the dipping sauce
- 1/4 cup Kraft Original Barbecue Sauce
- 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
Instructions
For the chicken bites
Preheat oven to 375° F.
Finely chop the cooked bacon and chicken. Place them in a medium size bowl.
Add shredded cheese, mayonnaise, maple syrup, and barbecue sauce. Mix by hand until well blended.
On a round pizza stone or pizza pan, arrange crescent triangles in a circle with wide ends overlapping in the center and points toward the outside.
With a small roller, or by hand gently flatten out the wide ends and seal the overlapping pieces together.
Spoon the chicken mixture onto the widest end of the triangles and spread evenly with a spatula.
Bring points of the triangles up over the filling and tuck the ends under the wide ends of the dough at the center of the ring. (Filling will not be all covered.)
Place in oven and bake for 15 minutes or until crescents are golden brown.
Remove from oven and let cool a few minutes before cutting into appetizer sized pieces. Serve warm.
For the dipping sauce
Whisk together the barbecue sauce and maple syrup until well blended. Serve room temperature or slightly warm.
Recipe adapted from Lemon Herb Chicken Ring – The Pampered Chef Season’s Best Recipes – 2002
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Is Asparagus Acidic? Asparagus and Acid Reflux
Asparagus is a beloved vegetable known for its unique flavor and nutritional benefits. But for individuals suffering from acid reflux, it raises a common question: Is asparagus acidic, and can it aggravate or alleviate acid reflux symptoms? In this article, we’ll explore the acidity of asparagus, its nutritional profile, and its potential effects on acid reflux sufferers.
Understanding Acid Reflux and Diet
What Is Acid Reflux?
Acid reflux occurs when stomach acid travels back up into the esophagus, leading to symptoms such as heartburn, regurgitation, and chest discomfort. This condition is often linked to dietary choices, making it vital to assess whether specific foods, like asparagus, trigger or alleviate symptoms.
How Diet Impacts Acid Reflux?
Certain foods are known to trigger reflux by:
- Relaxing the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), which normally prevents acid backflow.
- Increasing stomach acid production.
- Irritating the esophageal lining.
Dietary management is a cornerstone of acid reflux treatment, which means understanding the properties of each food, including asparagus, is crucial.
Is Asparagus Acidic or Alkaline?
The pH Level of Asparagus
On the pH scale, asparagus is considered a low-acid food with a pH ranging between 6.0 and 7.0, depending on its preparation. Foods with a pH above 7.0 are classified as alkaline, while those below 7.0 are acidic. Research suggests that asparagus sits near neutral, making it a mild choice for those monitoring their dietary acid intake.
Raw vs. Cooked Asparagus
The pH of asparagus can vary slightly based on its preparation:
- Raw asparagus retains more of its natural alkalinity and nutrients.
- Cooked asparagus (especially steamed or boiled) may have a softer texture, making it easier to digest for some individuals with reflux.
Alkaline Properties of Asparagus
While not fully alkaline, asparagus contains certain compounds that promote an alkaline environment in the body, which may help neutralize stomach acid and reduce reflux symptoms.
Nutritional Profile of Asparagus
Asparagus is not just a culinary delight; it’s a powerhouse of nutrients that contribute to overall health. Here’s what makes it stand out:
Key Nutrients in Asparagus
- Vitamins: Rich in vitamins A, C, E, and K, as well as folate.
- Minerals: Contains potassium, magnesium, calcium, and iron.
- Antioxidants: High levels of glutathione, an antioxidant that reduces inflammation.
- Fiber: Asparagus is a good source of dietary fiber, promoting healthy digestion.
- Prebiotics: Contains inulin, a prebiotic fiber that supports gut health.
Health Benefits of Asparagus
- Anti-Inflammatory Properties: Helps reduce inflammation, which may benefit individuals with acid reflux.
- Improved Digestion: Fiber and prebiotics in asparagus support healthy bowel movements and gut microbiota.
- Heart Health: Potassium and antioxidants promote cardiovascular health.
- Immune Support: High levels of vitamin C and other antioxidants boost immunity.
Asparagus and Acid Reflux: Potential Effects
Can Asparagus Trigger Acid Reflux?
While asparagus is not inherently acidic, it may still cause reflux in certain situations:
- Seasoning Choices: Adding acidic ingredients like lemon juice or vinegar during preparation could trigger symptoms.
- Overeating: Consuming large portions of any food, including asparagus, can put pressure on the LES and lead to reflux.
- Individual Sensitivity: Some individuals may have unique sensitivities that make asparagus a trigger food.
Benefits of Asparagus for Acid Reflux
For many, asparagus can be a reflux-friendly addition to their diet:
- Mildly Alkalizing: Asparagus helps create a less acidic environment in the stomach, which may alleviate reflux symptoms.
- Promotes Digestion: Fiber content aids in digestion, preventing bloating and constipation that can exacerbate reflux.
- Anti-Inflammatory Effects: May help soothe the esophagus and stomach lining.
How to Incorporate Asparagus into a Reflux-Friendly Diet
Tips for Cooking Asparagus
- Opt for Gentle Cooking Methods: Steaming or boiling preserves nutrients while making asparagus easier to digest.
- Avoid Trigger Ingredients: Skip acidic additions like lemon juice, garlic, or spicy seasonings.
- Pair with Alkaline Foods: Combine asparagus with alkaline-rich foods such as quinoa, sweet potatoes, or bananas to balance stomach acidity.
Portion Control
Stick to small to moderate portions of asparagus to avoid overwhelming the stomach. Eating smaller meals more frequently throughout the day can also help reduce reflux episodes.
Timing of Consumption
Avoid eating asparagus—or any food—close to bedtime, as lying down after a meal can increase the likelihood of reflux symptoms.
Alternative Vegetables for Acid Reflux Sufferers
If asparagus doesn’t sit well with you, consider these acid reflux-friendly alternatives:
- Zucchini: Mild and easy to digest, zucchini is a versatile vegetable for reflux sufferers.
- Cucumber: Naturally hydrating and alkaline, cucumber is a refreshing option.
- Broccoli: Rich in nutrients and low in acidity, broccoli is generally well-tolerated.
Related to Read: Zucchini Recipes
Lifestyle Changes for Managing Acid Reflux
Adopt Acid-Reflux-Friendly Eating Habits
- Chew food slowly and thoroughly.
- Avoid overeating by sticking to smaller meals.
- Maintain an upright posture for at least 2–3 hours after meals.
Avoid Common Trigger Foods
Limit or eliminate highly acidic, fatty, or spicy foods like tomatoes, citrus fruits, fried foods, and chocolate.
Manage Stress Levels
Stress can exacerbate acid reflux by increasing stomach acid production. Incorporate relaxation techniques such as yoga, meditation, or deep breathing exercises.
What the Experts Say About Asparagus and Acid Reflux?
Nutritional Research on Asparagus
Research highlights asparagus as a vegetable rich in anti-inflammatory compounds and gut-friendly prebiotics. While direct studies on its effect on acid reflux are limited, its overall properties make it a potential ally in a reflux-friendly diet.
Recommendations from Nutritionists
Many nutritionists recommend asparagus as a low-acid vegetable suitable for most people with acid reflux. However, they emphasize the importance of individual tolerance and moderation.
Asparagus Recipes: Asparagus Tempura
Roasted Asparagus With Miso Butter And A Poached Egg
Conclusion
So, is asparagus acidic? Not exactly. With its near-neutral pH and alkaline-promoting properties, asparagus is generally a reflux-friendly food. For most individuals, it can be safely included in a reflux management plan, provided it’s prepared and consumed thoughtfully.
However, acid reflux triggers vary from person to person. It’s essential to monitor your body’s response to asparagus and make adjustments as needed. Incorporating this nutritious vegetable alongside other lifestyle changes can help you better manage acid reflux and enjoy a balanced diet.
FAQs
1. Is asparagus good for acid reflux?
Yes, asparagus is generally good for acid reflux due to its low acidity and digestive benefits. However, individual tolerance may vary.
2. Can cooking asparagus reduce its acidity?
Cooking asparagus doesn’t significantly change its pH, but steaming or boiling can make it easier to digest, potentially reducing reflux symptoms.
3. Are there vegetables better than asparagus for acid reflux?
Vegetables like zucchini, cucumber, and broccoli may be better suited for some individuals, depending on personal tolerance.
4. Does asparagus cause gas or bloating?
Asparagus contains inulin, a prebiotic fiber, which can cause gas or bloating in some people, especially if eaten in large amounts.
5. Should I eat asparagus raw or cooked for acid reflux?
Cooked asparagus is usually easier to digest and less likely to trigger reflux symptoms compared to raw asparagus.
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