The sizzling sound of crispy bacon curling in the pan is the perfect backdrop for a culinary showdown. Enter the Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs—your new secret weapon at game day gatherings and cozy nights in. Packed with tender ground chicken, bold buffalo sauce, and decadent mozzarella, these bites deliver a satisfying crunch that makes each mouthful a delight. What’s even better? They are incredibly simple to whip up, making them a crowd-pleaser that won’t have you chained to the kitchen. Plus, with gluten-free options available, everyone can join in on the fun! Ready to take snacking to the next level? Let’s dive into how to create these irresistible bombs that will have hearts—and bellies—happily satisfied!
Why are Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs amazing?
Flavor Explosion: Each bite is bursting with savory bacon, tender chicken, and gooey mozzarella that dance together in harmony.
Easy to Make: You don’t need to be a kitchen pro to nail this recipe. Just follow the simple steps, and you’re ready for game day!
Customizable: Want to swap chicken for turkey? Go for it! Craving extra heat? Toss in some jalapeños. The variations are endless!
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for parties or cozy nights in, these bomb bites will have everyone raving. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauce for an extra touch!
Gluten-Free Friendly: With easy ingredient swaps, everyone can indulge in these mouthwatering delights. Why not check out Spicy Buffalo Chicken for more delicious ideas?
Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs Ingredients
• These delicious bomb bites are simple to prepare and sure to impress!
For the Filling
- Mozzarella Cheese – Provides the gooey, melted center; use fresh mozzarella cut into one-inch cubes for the best results.
- Cooked Bacon – Adds savory crunch and flavor; crumble before use for easy wrapping around the cheese.
- Ground Chicken – Acts as the main protein; feel free to substitute with ground turkey or lean beef for a lighter option.
- Buffalo Sauce – Brings tangy heat; adjust the quantity to your liking, or switch to honey barbecue for a milder flavor.
- Garlic Powder – Enhances overall flavor and is essential for that well-rounded taste.
- Onion Powder – Adds depth and balances the seasoning profile.
- Paprika – Provides warmth and a touch of color.
- Salt & Black Pepper – Essential for bringing all the flavors together.
For the Coating
- Plain Flour – Helps breadcrumbs adhere; use almond flour for a gluten-free alternative.
- Large Eggs – Binds the breadcrumbs to create a crispy finish.
- Breadcrumbs (Panko or Regular) – Coating for extra crunch; choose panko for maximum crispiness.
For Cooking
- Vegetable Oil or Canola Oil – Necessary for frying, ensuring that perfect golden exterior.
These Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs are sure to be the talk of your next gathering, with their irresistible flavors and simple preparation!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs
Step 1: Prepare Mozzarella
Begin by cutting fresh mozzarella cheese into one-inch cubes. Set these cubes aside on a plate, ensuring they’re ready to be enveloped in savory goodness later. This will provide the perfectly gooey center for your Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs, enhancing their flavor and texture.
Step 2: Wrap Cheese
Crumble your cooked bacon into small pieces in a bowl. Take a mozzarella cube and fully wrap it with the crumbled bacon, pressing gently to secure it in place. This step adds a delicious crunch and smoky flavor to the bomb, which balances beautifully with the spicy Buffalo chicken filling.
Step 3: Mix 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. Mix thoroughly with your hands or a spoon until evenly blended. This flavorful mixture acts as the hearty base that holds the Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs together.
Step 4: Form Bombs
Take a handful of the chicken mixture and flatten it slightly in your palm. Place the bacon-wrapped mozzarella in the center, then fold the chicken mixture around it. Roll the filling into a ball shape, ensuring the cheese is fully enclosed. This step is crucial to prevent leaks during cooking, so be sure each bomb is tightly formed.
Step 5: Coat Bombs
Set up a breading station with three shallow dishes: one with flour, another with beaten eggs, and the last with breadcrumbs. Roll each ball first in the flour, then dip it in the eggs, and finally coat it thoroughly with breadcrumbs. This coating will provide a deliciously crispy exterior when fried or baked.
Step 6: Cook
Heat vegetable oil or canola oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Carefully add the bomb bites to the hot oil, frying them for about 5-6 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Alternatively, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the bombs for 18-20 minutes if you prefer a lighter option.
Step 7: Serve
Once cooked, remove the Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs from the oil or oven and let them cool slightly on a paper towel to absorb excess oil. Drizzle the remaining buffalo sauce over the bombs and serve warm for a delightful snacking experience that everyone will love!
Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs Variations
Don’t be afraid to let your culinary creativity shine with these irresistible bombs; there’s a world of possibilities waiting for you!
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Turkey Swap: Use ground turkey instead of chicken for a leaner take. This subtle change keeps the flavors intact and is a great option for lighter snacking.
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Cheesy Twist: Experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or pepper jack. Each type brings a unique flavor complexity that can change the entire vibe of your bomb.
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Extra Heat: Spice things up by adding chopped jalapeños to the chicken mixture. This fiery addition takes the flavor profile to a whole new level, perfect for those who crave that extra kick!
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BBQ Upgrade: Swap out buffalo sauce for honey barbecue for a sweet twist. The smoky sweetness creates an entirely different flavor experience but still retains that beloved bomb form.
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Vegetarian Option: For a meatless alternative, use a combination of chickpeas and black beans mixed with spices. This offers a delightful texture and flavor bomb without the meat.
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Air Fryer Friendly: Opt for the air fryer instead of deep frying for a healthier version with fewer calories! Just lightly spray them with cooking oil before air frying for that crispy finish.
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Tasty Dipping Sauce: Serve these delicious bombs alongside a creamy ranch dressing or tangy blue cheese dip—your guests will love the added flavor!
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Herb-Infused: Incorporate fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley into the chicken mixture for a fresh and vibrant flavor explosion. The fragrant herbs elevate the snack to gourmet status.
Feel inspired? With these variations, everyone can find a version they adore. You might even find yourself craving the unique flavors found in dishes like Cheesy Garlic Chicken Wraps or Garlic Parmesan Chicken. Happy cooking!
Expert Tips for Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs
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Seal Tight: Ensure the cheese is fully encased in the chicken mixture to prevent leakage while cooking, keeping your Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs intact.
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Chill Out: Refrigerate assembled bombs for up to 24 hours before cooking. This helps improve their shape and gives them a delightful crispiness when cooked.
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Breading Timing: Coat the bombs with breadcrumbs just before frying or baking. This ensures they maintain their crunchy texture and don’t become soggy.
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Gluten-Free Switch: For gluten-free bomb bites, replace all-purpose flour with almond flour and use gluten-free breadcrumbs—everyone can enjoy these tasty treats!
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Cooking Methods: Experiment with cooking methods! Frying gives a crispy exterior, while baking offers a lighter option. Choose based on your preference!
What to Serve with Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs
The perfect companions to these scrumptious bites create a delightful feast that elevates your snacking experience!
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Cooling Ranch Dressing: A creamy dip that balances the bold flavors of the bombs, refreshing your palate in every bite.
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Celery Sticks: Crunchy and crisp, these sticks offer a light, refreshing contrast, making every bite more enjoyable.
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Blue Cheese Crumbles: For those who love that classic buffalo pairing, adding blue cheese brings a tangy richness that enhances the flavor profile beautifully.
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Mixed Green Salad: A fresh salad with zesty lemon vinaigrette will cut through the richness, providing a colorful, healthy addition to your spread.
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Sweet Potato Fries: Sweet, crispy fries add a satisfying texture to your meal, with a natural sweetness that complements the spicy bombs.
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Craft Beer: A cold, crisp beer pairs perfectly, its bubbles cleansing the palate and enhancing the flavorful experience of the Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs.
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Pepper Jack Cheese Bites: For cheese lovers, these bites add an extra layer of cheesy goodness and a little kick, harmonizing with the bomb’s flavors.
Explore these delicious pairings to create a memorable and well-rounded spread that everyone will love!
Make Ahead Options
These Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs are ideal for busy cooks! You can assemble the bombs up to 24 hours in advance by completing steps 1 through 5 and then refrigerating them tightly covered. This not only allows flavors to meld but also helps maintain their shape and crispiness. For best results, coat the bombs with breadcrumbs only right before cooking; this ensures a crunchy texture that’s just as delicious as when made fresh. When ready to enjoy, simply fry or bake the bombs as directed in step 6, and you’ll have a satisfying snack ready in no time!
Storage Tips for Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs
Fridge: Store cooked Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs in an airtight container for up to 3 days to keep them fresh and flavorful.
Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze un-cooked bombs in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To restore their crispiness, reheat cooked bombs in an air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, ensuring they’re heated through.
Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs Recipe FAQs
What type of mozzarella cheese should I use for the bombs?
Absolutely! I recommend using fresh mozzarella cheese cut into one-inch cubes for the gooey, melted center. This type provides the best texture and flavor balance within the bombs, making every bite irresistibly creamy.
How can I store leftover Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs?
Very simple! Store cooked bombs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer-term storage, un-cooked bombs can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just remember to store them in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe bag.
Can I freeze these bombs? If so, how should I do it?
Absolutely! To freeze the un-cooked Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Once they’re frozen solid (this usually takes about 1-2 hours), transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or airtight container. They will stay good for up to three months. Just make sure to label them with the date!
What if my bombs are leaking cheese during cooking?
Don’t worry! If you find that your bombs are leaking cheese, it could be due to not fully encasing the cheese in the chicken mixture. Make sure to securely seal the cheese inside the chicken layer when forming the bombs. A gentle but firm roll will aid in keeping everything intact. You can also chill the assembled bombs for up to 24 hours before cooking, which can help hold their shape better.
Are there any dietary concerns I should be aware of?
Yes! For those with dietary restrictions, these bombs can easily accommodate gluten-free diets. Substitute plain flour with almond flour and choose gluten-free breadcrumbs for coating. As for allergies, be cautious of the use of buffalo sauce, which occasionally contains allergens such as soy or gluten. Always check the labels of store-bought sauces to ensure they’re allergy-friendly.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
For the best results, reheat cooked Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs in an air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes. This method rejuvenates the crispy outer layer while warming the inside without making them soggy. Enjoy!
Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs for Ultimate Game Day Snacking
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare Mozzarella by cutting fresh mozzarella cheese into one-inch cubes and setting aside.
- Wrap Cheese by crumbling cooked bacon into small pieces. Wrap a mozzarella cube with crumbled bacon.
- Mix Filling in a large mixing bowl with ground chicken, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, and buffalo sauce.
- Form Bombs by taking a handful of the chicken mixture, flattening it, placing the bacon-wrapped mozzarella in the center, and rolling it into a ball shape.
- Coat Bombs by rolling each ball first in flour, then in eggs, and finally in breadcrumbs.
- Cook by heating oil in a skillet and frying the bombs for 5-6 minutes until golden brown, or bake at 400°F for 18-20 minutes.
- Serve warm with additional buffalo sauce drizzled on top.
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