“Did you hear that? They just said ‘Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs’ at the party!” I grinned, knowing those little bites of savory goodness could turn any gathering into a memorable feast. These mouthwatering morsels combine the juicy zest of ground chicken, crispy bacon, and gooey mozzarella, creating an irresistible appetizer that’s sure to impress. Perfect for game day or a cozy night in, they’re easy to prepare and practically beg to be shared. Plus, with gluten-free options available, there’s a spot for everyone at the table. So, are you ready to dive into the crunchy exterior and creamy center of these delicious bombs? Let’s get cooking!
Why Are These Bombs a Must-Try?
Flavor Explosion: Every bite of these Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs delivers mouthwatering flavor from the spicy chicken and crispy bacon.
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for parties, game days, or just a cozy night, they’ll keep your guests coming back for more!
Easy Prep: With just a handful of ingredients and simple steps, you can whip these up in no time.
Versatile Variations: Want to lighten things up? Try ground turkey or make them gluten-free with just a few swaps.
Make Ahead: You can prep these in advance, saving time when it matters most. Just refrigerate or freeze until you’re ready to fry or bake them up!
Pair them with a crispy salad or a side of Cheddar Bay Chicken for an unforgettable experience!
Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs Ingredients
For the Filling
- Ground Chicken – The star of the dish, providing a juicy and flavorful base; feel free to swap for ground turkey or lean beef for a lighter twist.
- Buffalo Sauce – Adds that signature tangy heat; adjust the amount to suit your spice tolerance.
- Garlic Powder – A must-have for enhancing taste; fresh garlic can work too if you prefer bold flavors.
- Onion Powder – Helps deepen the overall flavor profile beautifully.
- Paprika – Not just for color, it adds a subtle warmth that complements the dish.
- Salt & Black Pepper – Essential seasonings for perfect balance; don’t skip these!
For the Bombs
- Mozzarella Cheese – The gooey center everyone loves; fresh mozzarella is ideal for that melty goodness.
- Cooked Bacon – Crumbled and wrapped around the cheese for that irresistible crunch; use your favorite type!
- Plain Flour – Helps the breadcrumbs adhere, giving you that perfect crispy coating.
- Large Eggs – Binds the breadcrumbs and flour to ensure a satisfying crunch.
- Breadcrumbs (Panko or Regular) – For that delightful texture; panko gives an extra crunch factor.
For Frying
- Vegetable Oil or Canola Oil – Critical for frying to a golden finish, yielding that crispy exterior.
Dive into making these Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs and prepare for a flavor that will wow your guests!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs
Step 1: Prepare the Cheese
Begin by cutting fresh mozzarella into 1-inch cubes and placing them aside for easy access. This will be the delicious, gooey center of your Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs. Make sure the cheese is chilled, as it will hold its shape better when encased in the chicken filling.
Step 2: Wrap the Cheese
Crumble the cooked bacon into small pieces. Take each mozzarella cube and carefully wrap it with the crumbled bacon, ensuring that the bacon fully covers the cheese. This step adds that irresistible crunch and smoky flavor, so make sure there are no gaps where the cheese could ooze out during cooking.
Step 3: Mix the Chicken Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, and half of the buffalo sauce. Using your hands or a spoon, mix thoroughly until the ingredients are evenly combined. This flavorful mixture will provide a spicy base for your Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs.
Step 4: Form the Bombs
Take a portion of the chicken mixture and flatten it in your palm. Place a bacon-wrapped mozzarella cube in the center, then press the chicken mixture around it to completely encase the cheese. Shape it into a smooth ball, making sure there are no openings. This ensures a tasty bite without any cheese leaks during cooking.
Step 5: Coat the Bombs
Prepare your coating station by setting out three shallow dishes: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs. Roll each chicken bomb in flour to create a light coating, then dip it in the beaten eggs, followed by fully covering it with breadcrumbs. This will give your Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs a wonderfully crispy exterior.
Step 6: Cook the Bombs
In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil or canola oil over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Carefully add each bomb to the hot oil and fry them for 5–6 minutes until they turn a beautiful golden brown. If you prefer baking, place them on a lined baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 18–20 minutes until crispy.
Step 7: Finish & Serve
Once cooked, remove the Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs from the heat and drain on paper towels. Drizzle them with the remaining buffalo sauce for an extra kick of flavor. Serve hot to entice your guests with the delightful aroma and enticing crunch of these scrumptious bombs!
Expert Tips for Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs
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Wrap Carefully: Ensure there are no gaps when wrapping the bacon around the mozzarella. This prevents cheese leakage during cooking, resulting in perfect bombs.
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Chill the Cheese: Use chilled mozzarella cheese. This helps it hold its shape better when wrapped, keeping that gooey center intact.
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Coating Crunch: For an extra crispy texture, opt for panko breadcrumbs instead of regular. This provides the delightful crunch that sets these Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs apart.
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Cook in Batches: Don’t overcrowd the pan while frying. Cooking in small batches allows each bomb to cook evenly and get that beautiful golden brown.
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Make-Ahead Option: Assemble the bombs and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before cooking. This can enhance the flavor and texture, making them a convenient option for entertaining.
Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs Variations
Feel free to explore these fun tweaks to make your Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs even more delightful and personalized!
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Ground Turkey: Swap ground chicken for ground turkey for a lighter, leaner alternative that still delivers on flavor.
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Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and almond flour to cater to gluten-sensitive friends; they won’t miss out on the deliciousness!
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Cheese Variety: Try different cheeses like cheddar or pepper jack for a twist in flavor. Mix in some jalapeños for added zest and thrill!
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Herb-Infused: Incorporate fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro into the chicken mixture for an aromatic kick that beautifully complements the spices.
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Spicy Kick: Increase the heat by adding diced jalapeños or a splash more buffalo sauce to the mix for those who love a spicy bite!
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Baked Alternative: For a healthier option, brush the bombs with olive oil and bake them instead of frying. They’ll be less greasy but equally delicious.
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Sweet BBQ Twist: Replace buffalo sauce with your favorite BBQ sauce for a different flavor profile; smoky and sweet will wow your guests!
These variations not only keep dinner interesting but also allow you to cater to different tastes—just like how the perfect side of crunchy celery sticks complements these bombs with every bite! You might also enjoy pairing them with Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole for a comforting option.
What to Serve with Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs
These savory bites are the ultimate party snack, bursting with flavor and perfect for complementing your favorite side dishes.
- Crunchy Celery Sticks: Fresh celery adds a refreshing crunch that contrasts beautifully with the rich flavors of the bombs, perfect for dipping in blue cheese dressing.
- Classic Blue Cheese Dressing: A tangy and creamy dip that balances the heat of the buffalo sauce, making each bomb even more irresistible.
- Crunchy Salad: A crisp, vibrant salad with mixed greens and a zesty vinaigrette brightens the meal and provides a light, refreshing contrast to the bombs.
- Sweet Potato Fries: Golden and crispy, sweet potato fries add a touch of sweetness that pairs perfectly with the spicy flavor of the bombs.
- Homemade Potato Wedges: These crispy, herb-seasoned wedges provide a satisfying texture and make for a hearty side to balance the savory snacks.
- Fruit Platter: A refreshing fruit assortment can offer a sweet and juicy counterpoint to the spicy bombs, making for a delightful variety.
- Chilled Beverages: Pair with a light beer or iced tea to wash down the spicy flavor and elevate your snacking experience.
- Dessert Bars: Finish your meal with a rich dessert, such as chocolate chip bars, offering a sweet end to the savory adventure.
With these pairings, your Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs will shine brightly on any gathering or game day feast!
How to Store and Freeze Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs
Fridge: Store cooked bombs in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Allow them to cool completely before sealing to retain their crispiness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze uncooked bombs. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To reheat leftovers, use an air fryer for about 5 minutes at 350°F (175°C) for restored crispiness. Alternatively, bake in an oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Prep Ahead: You can prepare the Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs in advance and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before cooking, making your mealtime a breeze!
Make Ahead Options
These Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs are perfect for meal prep and can save you time on busy days! You can assemble the bombs and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before cooking. Just follow all the steps up to the frying or baking stage and store them in an airtight container to maintain their delicious texture. If you want to prepare them even further in advance, freeze the uncooked bombs for up to 3 months. To cook from frozen, simply add a few extra minutes to your cooking time, and you’ll have freshly cooked, crispy bombs that are just as delicious! With this make-ahead option, you can enjoy cooking without the stress.
Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best mozzarella cheese?
When choosing mozzarella, look for fresh mozzarella that feels slightly soft and has a milky aroma. Avoid any cheese with dark spots or an overly dry surface, as these indicate it may be past its prime. Opt for mozzarella packed in water for the best melting quality and flavor.
What are the best storage methods for leftover bombs?
Store cooked Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Allow them to cool completely before sealing, which helps maintain that delicious crunch, making every bite as good as freshly made.
Can I freeze Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs?
Absolutely! To freeze, assemble the uncooked bombs and place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze them until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, cook from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to your cooking time for perfect results.
What should I do if my bombs are leaking cheese during cooking?
If you notice cheese leaking, it’s usually due to gaps when wrapping the bacon around the mozzarella. Make sure to completely encase the cheese with the chicken mixture, smoothing out any openings. If it happens, don’t worry—just savor the extra cheesy goodness that escapes!
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
For gluten-free versions, substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs and use almond flour instead of plain flour. If you have allergies, ensure to check the labels on your ingredients, especially the sauces and seasonings, to avoid any allergens.
What are some tips for reheating leftovers?
To restore the crispiness of your leftovers, use an air fryer set to 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes. This method will help retain that delightful crunch you expect. If you don’t have an air fryer, you can also reheat them in a preheated oven until heated through, which usually takes about 10–15 minutes.
Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs That Will Wow Your Guests
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the cheese by cutting fresh mozzarella into 1-inch cubes and placing them aside.
- Crumble the cooked bacon into small pieces and wrap each mozzarella cube with crumbled bacon.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, and half of the buffalo sauce. Mix thoroughly.
- Flatten a portion of the chicken mixture in your palm, place a bacon-wrapped mozzarella cube in the center, and encase it completely with the chicken mixture.
- Roll each bomb in flour, dip it in beaten eggs, and coat with breadcrumbs.
- Heat vegetable oil or canola oil in a large skillet over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Fry each bomb for 5–6 minutes until golden brown.
- Remove cooked bombs from the heat and drizzle with remaining buffalo sauce, then serve hot.
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