Amid the laughter and cheers of game night, I found myself longing for that perfect blend of spicy and savory. That’s when I stumbled upon the mouthwatering creation of Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs. These irresistible bites are not just any snack—they’re a glorious fusion of crispy battered goodness wrapped around gooey mozzarella and smoky bacon, all enveloped in seasoned ground chicken. What makes them truly special? They are a crowd-pleaser that you can whip up in no time, plus they can easily be made gluten-free without sacrificing taste. Imagine serving these to your friends and family—everyone will be reaching for just one more! Are you ready to dive into the world of flavor with me? Let’s make your kitchen the center of excitement!
Why Are These Bombs a Must-Try?
Explosion of Flavor: Each bite of these Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs bursts with spices and savory chicken, ensuring no two bites are ever the same.
Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute game day preparations, they come together in no time!
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Serve them up at parties, and watch as your friends and family can’t resist going back for more.
Versatile & Customizable: Adjust the heat level with your choice of sauce, making them suitable for every palate, or try swapping in ground turkey for a lighter take.
Perfect Pairing: Pair them with celery sticks and ranch dressing or serve them in a toasted sub roll for a hearty, delicious meal. Whether it’s sizzling hot or fresh out of the oven, these bites are the ultimate crowd-pleaser.
Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs Ingredients
• Indulge in these irresistible flavors with just a few key ingredients!
For the Filling
- Mozzarella Cheese – Adds a creamy, flavorful center; cubed for easy wrapping.
- Cooked Bacon – Provides savory, smoky flavor; crumbled for even distribution.
- Ground Chicken – Acts as the primary protein; feel free to swap with ground turkey for a lighter option.
- Buffalo Sauce – Delivers that signature spicy kick; adjust the amount based on your heat preference.
- Garlic Powder – Enhances flavor depth; perfect for that extra zing.
- Onion Powder – Adds a subtle sweetness and aroma; a must for balance.
- Paprika – Imparts mild flavor and color; a dash brightens the dish.
- Salt & Black Pepper – Basic seasonings that amplify the overall taste.
For Coating
- Plain Flour – Provides a crispy exterior; essential for that crunch.
- Eggs – Help bind the flour coating to the bombs; ensures adherence.
- Breadcrumbs (Panko or Regular) – Adds the ultimate crispiness, especially panko for extra crunch.
For Frying
- Vegetable Oil/Canola Oil – Ensures crispy, golden results; perfect for deep-frying your bombs.
When you bring together these ingredients, you unlock the key to the delightful Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs that wow every bite!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs
Step 1: Prepare Cheese
Begin by cutting your mozzarella cheese into bite-sized cubes. Next, take the crumbled cooked bacon and wrap each cheese cube thoroughly. Set these prepared cheese pieces aside on a plate, ensuring they are ready to be used in the filling of your Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs.
Step 2: Mix Chicken Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chicken with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, and half of the buffalo sauce. Use your hands or a spoon to thoroughly mix the ingredients until well incorporated. This flavorful mixture will serve as the base for your bomb, ensuring each bite is packed with spice and aroma.
Step 3: Form Bombs
Take a portion of the chicken mixture and flatten it in your palm. Place one of the bacon-wrapped mozzarella cubes in the center, then carefully fold the chicken around it to form a tight ball. Make sure the chicken fully encapsulates the cheese to avoid any leaks during cooking. Repeat this process for all the chicken filling.
Step 4: Coat Bombs
Prepare your coating station by placing flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs in three separate shallow bowls. Roll each chicken ball first in the flour, ensuring an even coating, then dip it in the beaten eggs for binding. Finally, coat the balls in breadcrumbs evenly, giving them a nice crispy layer. Set aside on a clean plate while preparing to cook.
Step 5: Cook
Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Carefully add the chicken bombs to the hot oil, cooking them in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry for 5–6 minutes, turning occasionally until they are golden brown and crispy. Alternatively, you can bake them in the oven at 200°C (400°F) for 18–20 minutes until the exterior is crispy.
Step 6: Finish
Once cooked, carefully remove the Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil. Immediately toss them in the remaining buffalo sauce for added flavor and heat. Feel free to garnish them with your favorite toppings, such as crumbled blue cheese or chopped green onions, for an extra touch!
Make Ahead Options
These Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to save time on busy weeknights! You can assemble the bombs and refrigerate them up to 24 hours in advance. To maintain their crispy texture, coat them in breadcrumbs just before cooking. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply fry them as directed for the best results, or bake them at 200°C (400°F) for 18–20 minutes until golden. If you prefer to store them longer, cooked bombs can also be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen; just reheat in the oven or air fryer for a quick, delicious snack. Prepare ahead today and relish in the comfort of these crowd-pleasers!
What to Serve with Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs
Imagine transforming your tasty Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs into a complete meal that’s as delightful as the bite-sized treats themselves.
- Creamy Coleslaw: Adds a refreshing crunch that balances the heat, making each bite a flavor harmony.
- Celery Sticks: Crisp, cool celery sticks are perfect for dipping, enhancing the buffalo flavor experience with a satisfying crunch.
- Ranch Dressing: A classic companion, this creamy dip offers a soothing contrast to the spicy bombs while enhancing their flavors.
- Garlic Bread: The buttery, garlicky goodness of warm garlic bread complements the savory flavors, creating a comforting meal feel.
- Buffalo Sauce: Extra buffalo sauce on the side invites adventurous eaters to kick the heat up a notch for those who thrive on spice.
- Vegetable Platter: A colorful assortment of veggies brings freshness and nutrition, making your snack table feel vibrant and appealing.
- Beer or Cider: A chilled beer or crisp hard cider works wonders, cutting through the richness of the bombs while pairing perfectly with the spices.
- Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges add heartiness to your meal, providing contrasting textures and soaking up any extra sauce.
- Dessert Option: A light dessert, like fresh fruit or a sorbet, cleanses the palate, finishing your feast on a sweet and refreshing note.
Storage Tips for Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs
Fridge: Keep cooked Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This ensures they stay fresh and delicious for your midnight cravings.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the bombs in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to 2 months, making them perfect for future snacking.
Reheating: Reheat the bombs in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10–15 minutes to maintain that crispy texture, or pop them in an air fryer for 5–7 minutes until warmed through.
Make-Ahead: Perfect for meal prep! You can assemble the bombs ahead of time, refrigerate for up to 24 hours before frying, and coat them in breadcrumbs just before cooking to ensure the best crunch.
Expert Tips for Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs
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Seal It Right: Ensure the chicken filling completely encloses the cheese to prevent any leaks while cooking. A tight seal is essential!
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Make Ahead: Assemble and refrigerate the bombs for up to 24 hours. Coat in breadcrumbs right before cooking for ultimate crispiness.
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Oil Temperature: Use a thermometer to check oil temperature. Too hot can burn the outside while leaving the inside uncooked, so aim for 350°F.
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Baking Option: If you prefer a healthier approach, you can bake the buffalo chicken bacon mozzarella bombs at 200°C (400°F) for 18–20 minutes, flipping halfway through for evenness.
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Flavor Variations: Feel free to tweak the spice level by adjusting the buffalo sauce or experimenting with different fillings—like swapping ground chicken for turkey or another protein.
Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs Variations
Feel free to get creative and make these Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs truly your own with these delicious twists!
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Ground Turkey: Swap out the ground chicken for ground turkey for a lighter, equally flavorful alternative. It’s a great way to mix things up while keeping the taste vibrant!
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Mild Sauce: If you’re sensitive to heat, consider replacing the buffalo sauce with a milder honey barbecue sauce. This ensures everyone can enjoy these tasty bites without overwhelming spice.
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Gluten-Free: For a gluten-free version, simply substitute regular flour and breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives. You won’t sacrifice any crunch or flavor!
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Cheese Alternatives: Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack for a spicy kick or cheddar for a sharper flavor. Each cheese brings its own delightful personality to the dish!
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Air Fryer Option: Take the healthy route by air frying instead of deep frying. You’ll achieve a crispy exterior with less oil, making them perfect for guilt-free snacking.
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Add Heat: To amp up the spice, incorporate diced jalapeños into the chicken mixture or change up your buffalo sauce for one with an extra kick. Your adventurous friends will love this fiery twist!
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Toppings Bar: Set up a toppings station to serve alongside. Crumbled blue cheese, diced green onions, or a drizzle of ranch dressing can take these bombs to the next level of flavor. Don’t be surprised if your guests request their favorites multiple times!
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Sub Roll Treat: Instead of serving them as is, load these bombs onto a toasted sub roll with some coleslaw for a mouthwatering sandwich experience. It’s a hearty meal that’s sure to satisfy.
For more inspiration, check out other delicious recipes like Buffalo Chicken Mac or note the comforting flavors of Hearty Bokchoy Chicken!
Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs Recipe FAQs
How do I select ripe mozzarella cheese for this recipe?
Absolutely! When looking for mozzarella cheese, aim for the fresh variety that is soft and slightly moist. It should have a pleasant, milky smell with no dark spots. If you’re in a pinch, pre-packaged mozzarella will work too, just ensure it’s not older than its expiration date.
What’s the best way to store leftover Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs?
Store cooked Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to let them cool completely before sealing to avoid moisture buildup which could make them soggy!
Can I freeze the Bombs? How do I do it?
Yes, you can! To freeze your Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs, lay them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about 1–2 hours until firm. Then, transfer the bombs to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, just reheat directly from frozen!
What if my chicken mixture is too wet to form balls?
No worries at all! If your chicken mixture feels too wet, try adding a few tablespoons of breadcrumbs or flour to help bind it together. Mixing the ingredients well is key, so make sure everything is evenly combined before shaping. Additionally, refrigerating the mixture for about 15 minutes can help it firm up slightly, making it easier to handle.
Are there any dietary considerations for pets or allergies with this recipe?
Certainly! These Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs contain several common allergens, including chicken, dairy, and gluten. If you have any allergies, consider using ground turkey for protein, dairy-free cheese alternatives, and gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs. Keep these away from pets, as ingredients like onion and garlic can be harmful to them.
Can I make these Bombs gluten-free?
Very much so! To create gluten-free Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs, simply substitute the plain flour and breadcrumbs with their gluten-free counterparts. This simple swap allows everyone to enjoy these delicious snacks without worry.
Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs that Wow Every Bite
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cut mozzarella cheese into bite-sized cubes and wrap each cheese cube with crumbled cooked bacon. Set aside.
- In a bowl, mix ground chicken with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, and half of the buffalo sauce until incorporated.
- Flatten a portion of the chicken mixture in your palm, place one bacon-wrapped mozzarella cube in the center, and form a tight ball around the cheese.
- Prepare coating by placing flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs in separate bowls. Coat each chicken ball with flour, dip in eggs, and roll in breadcrumbs.
- Heat oil in a pan to 350°F (175°C). Fry the chicken bombs in batches for 5–6 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove bombs from the oil, place on paper towels, toss in the remaining buffalo sauce, and garnish as desired.
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