Picture this: the game is on, friends are gathered, and the tantalizing aroma of crispy bacon and spicy buffalo sauce fills the air. As I set out these Spicy Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs, I can’t help but feel a wave of excitement. Each bite is a delightful surprise — the perfect balance of crunchy exterior and molten, cheesy center bursts with flavors that dance on your palate.
I came up with this quick and satisfying recipe during a casual get-together, and it quickly became the star of the night! Not only are these bombs unbelievably delicious, but they also cater to everyone’s tastes with plenty of options for substitutions. Ground turkey or lean beef can easily replace chicken, and gluten-free diners will find joy in this adaptable treat. Whether it’s game day or just a cozy night in, these Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs are sure to impress and satisfy those cravings for homemade comfort food!
Why Love Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs?
Irresistible crunch meets gooey goodness: These Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs bring the best of both worlds together! Customization options abound—whether you prefer ground turkey or lean beef, they’ll fit your dietary needs. Crowd-pleaser status is a given, making them ideal for gatherings. Quick preparation keeps your kitchen stress-free, while every bite is a flavor explosion that leaves everyone wanting more. Enjoy them with celery sticks and blue cheese for the perfect dip pairing!
Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs Ingredients
For the Filling
• Mozzarella Cheese – Provides gooey, melty goodness in the center; fresh mozzarella yields the best results.
• Cooked Bacon – Adds a savory crunch and deep flavor; ensure it’s crumbled for even distribution.
• Ground Chicken – Main protein base; substitute with ground turkey or lean beef for a lighter option.
• Buffalo Sauce – Contributes tangy heat; adjust the amount based on your preferred spice level, or use honey barbecue for a milder taste.
• Garlic Powder – Enhances the flavor profile; a key ingredient for seasoning.
• Onion Powder – Adds depth to the taste; pairs well with other spices.
• Paprika – Provides warmth and color, making your bombs visually appealing.
• Salt & Black Pepper – Essential for balancing the flavors.
For the Coating
• Plain Flour – Helps breadcrumb adherence; forms the first coating layer for a crispy exterior.
• Large Eggs – Binds the breadcrumbs together, ensuring a crispy texture.
• Breadcrumbs (Panko or Regular) – Panko offers extra crunchiness compared to regular breadcrumbs for added texture.
For Cooking
• Vegetable Oil or Canola Oil – Necessary for frying, ensuring those crispy exteriors that everyone loves.
These delightful Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs are sure to be a hit whether you’re hosting a game night or simply enjoying a cozy meal at home!
How to Make Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs
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Prepare Mozzarella: Cut the mozzarella cheese into 1-inch cubes and set them aside. Fresh mozzarella will yield the best gooey, melty goodness for your bombs.
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Wrap Cheese: Crumble the cooked bacon and carefully wrap a piece around each mozzarella cube. Ensure complete coverage for that delightful savory crunch!
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Mix Chicken Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, pepper, and ½ cup of buffalo sauce. Mix well until everything is evenly coated.
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Form Bombs: Take a handful of the chicken mixture, flatten it in your palm, and place a bacon-wrapped cheese cube in the center. Encase it thoroughly to form a ball, ensuring no gaps for leakage.
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Coat Bombs: Set up three bowls with flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs (using panko for extra crunch). Roll each bomb in flour, dip in egg, and coat with breadcrumbs.
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Cook: Heat oil to 350°F (175°C) for frying, or preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Fry the bombs for 5-6 minutes until golden brown, or bake for 18-20 minutes until crispy and cooked through.
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Finish & Serve: Once cooked, drizzle the remaining buffalo sauce over the bombs and serve them hot, ready for everyone to enjoy!
Optional: Pair with celery sticks and blue cheese dressing for the perfect balance.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs
- Refrigerate Before Cooking: Chill the assembled bombs for up to 24 hours to help them hold their shape and improve their crispiness.
- Seal Completely: Ensure there are no gaps when encasing the mozzarella to prevent leaks while cooking, preserving the melted cheese goodness inside.
- Choose Panko for Crunch: For an extra crispy texture, use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular; they make a world of difference in the final product.
- Healthier Baking Option: If you’re looking for a lighter version of these Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs, try baking them in the oven. Just ensure they’re cooked thoroughly.
- Perfect Reheating: Store leftover bombs in an airtight container, and when it’s snack time, reheat them in an air fryer to maintain that delightful crunch.
How to Store and Freeze Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs
Fridge: Store cooked Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezer: Uncooked bombs can be frozen for up to 3 months. Arrange them on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. Cook from frozen without thawing for the best results.
Reheating: For optimal texture, reheat leftovers in an air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 8 minutes, bringing back that crispiness.
Preparation in Advance: Assemble your bombs ahead of time and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before cooking. This not only helps in shaping but also enhances their overall crunchiness.
Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs Variations
Feel free to get creative with this recipe, allowing everyone to indulge in their perfect flavor combination.
- Ground Turkey: Substitute ground chicken with ground turkey for a lighter, healthy option without compromising flavor.
- Lean Beef: Swap in lean beef for a heartier bomb; it’s perfect for those who love the richness of beef.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and almond flour to make these delicious bombs suitable for gluten-free diets.
- Different Cheeses: Experiment by using pepper jack or cheddar cheese for varied flavor profiles and an exciting twist on gooeyness.
- Spice It Up: Kick the heat up a notch by adding diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the chicken mixture.
- Sweet & Spicy: Mix in a touch of honey or maple syrup to your buffalo sauce for an irresistible sweet-and-spicy flavor combination.
- Baked Version: For a healthier alternative, bake these bombs instead of frying; just ensure they’re cooked through and crispy.
- Vegetarian Delight: Replace chicken with black beans or chickpeas and use vegan cheese for a plant-based take on this delicious snack.
Each variation opens up a new world of flavors, inviting you to enjoy these bombs your way!
Make Ahead Options
These Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs are a fantastic choice for meal prep, saving you precious time on busy days! You can assemble the bombs up to 24 hours in advance by following the preparation steps and then refrigerating them. To maintain their quality, ensure they are tightly covered to prevent drying out. When you’re ready to cook, simply heat the oil or preheat the oven and fry or bake as instructed. If you’d like to prep even further in advance, uncooked bombs can be frozen for up to 3 months—just cook them from frozen without thawing for best results. Your flavorful snacks will be just as delicious and satisfying when ready!
What to Serve with Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs?
Elevate your gathering with delightful sides that perfectly complement the flavors and textures of these crispy, cheesy bombs.
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Celery Sticks: Their crisp texture balances the savory richness of the bombs, adding a refreshing crunch you can’t resist.
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Blue Cheese Dressing: Creamy and tangy, this classic pairing enhances the spicy buffalo sauce, making every bite even more satisfying.
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Sweet Potato Fries: Their natural sweetness offers a pleasant contrast to the heat, creating a perfect harmony of flavors.
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Crunchy Garden Salad: Fresh greens and vibrant veggies brighten the plate while providing a crisp, healthy counter to the indulgent bombs.
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Fruit Platter: A mix of fruits like apples and grapes introduces a sweet touch that cuts through the savory richness, refreshing the palate.
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Beer or Craft Cocktails: Pair with a cold lager or a spicy margarita for a fun, festive touch that keeps the energy high during game day!
Each of these options complements the Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs beautifully, making your meal unforgettable!
Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs Recipe FAQs
What type of mozzarella cheese should I use for the bombs?
I recommend using fresh mozzarella for the best gooey, melty goodness. You can cut it into 1-inch cubes so that each bite is filled with that delicious creamy center!
How should I store leftover Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs?
Store cooked bombs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep them fresh, make sure they’re completely cooled before sealing.
Can I freeze these bombs?
Absolutely! You can freeze uncooked bombs for up to 3 months. Just arrange them on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. When you’re ready, cook them directly from frozen without thawing for the best texture!
How do I prevent leakage of cheese during cooking?
Great question! It’s essential to ensure that there are no gaps when encasing the mozzarella inside the chicken mixture. Take your time to form the balls thoroughly—this prevents any leaking and keeps the cheesy goodness intact.
Are these bombs suitable for different dietary needs?
Yes! You can substitute ground chicken with ground turkey or lean beef for a healthier option. For those needing gluten-free options, simply use gluten-free breadcrumbs and almond flour to adapt the recipe accordingly.
What’s the best way to reheat leftover Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs?
For optimal crispiness, reheat leftovers in an air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 8 minutes. This method revives their crunchy exterior, making them taste just as delightful as when they were first cooked!
Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs That Wow Every Bite
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare Mozzarella: Cut the mozzarella cheese into 1-inch cubes and set them aside.
- Wrap Cheese: Crumble the cooked bacon and wrap a piece around each mozzarella cube.
- Mix Chicken Filling: Combine ground chicken, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, pepper, and buffalo sauce in a bowl.
- Form Bombs: Take a handful of chicken mixture, flatten it, and place a bacon-wrapped cheese cube in the center. Form into a ball.
- Coat Bombs: Roll each bomb in flour, dip in egg, and coat with breadcrumbs.
- Cook: Heat oil to 350°F and fry bombs for 5-6 minutes until golden brown, or bake at 400°F for 18-20 minutes.
- Finish & Serve: Drizzle remaining buffalo sauce over bombs and serve hot.