Citrus Smoked Chicken Salad Appetizer

Happy Spring all!  I seem to make these appetizers every year about this time and this year was no exception as they seemed like the perfect thing for a friend's outdoor going away party.  They just scream warmer weather to me and look like they take all day while in reality they are a 30 minute dish.  I like to bring dishes that don't require plates or flatware to these events since seating is often limited and these appetizers fit the bill perfectly since they are easy to eat while standing.  They are always a hit and easy to vary depending on your taste.  You can use the recipe to stuff mushrooms or tomatoes or my favorite, in Athens Fillo cups.  It would also be a terrific sandwich spread or cracker dip.  On this trip to the grocery I was unable to find the cups so I had to improvise, buying the fillo roll, then cutting and forming them into mini muffin tins.  The result was terrific though more time consuming than the pre-made cups so if you can find them, use them!  The smoky flavor combined with citrus makes it a unique dish.  I hope you enjoy this as much as I do.

Makes 20 to 24 individual servings

1 large can chicken breast, diced

Salt and pepper
Liquid Smoke, a few drops to taste
1 tablespoon butter

1/3 cup finely grated parmesan or romano cheese
2 tablespoons celery, finely chopped
2 tablespoon green onion,finely chopped
4 tablespoons light mayonnaise
2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
Sea salt, to taste
1/8 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Zest from one lemon

Season chicken with salt, pepper and Liquid Smoke to taste. Combine chicken in a bowl with celery, green onion, mayonnaise, cheese, lemon juice, salt and pepper.  Add lemon zest.  Mix well.

Spoon lemony chicken salad mixture into cups, arrange on a platter and serve.