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These Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs are the ultimate game day treat that brings together spicy, savory, and cheesy in every bite. Crispy on the outside with a melty, flavorful center, they are bound to become a hit whether you are feeding family or hosting friends.
I first tried making these bombs when craving a twist on buffalo wings without the mess and now they are a top request whenever we have friends over for the big game.
Gather Your Ingredients
- Mozzarella cheese: cut into cubes for that delightful melt and stretch use whole milk mozzarella if you can find it for creamier texture
- Cooked bacon: crumbled for smoky, salty bites thick-cut bacon provides the best flavor and texture
- Ground chicken: as a lean protein base you can opt for ground turkey or lean beef if preferred
- Buffalo sauce: adds the perfect kick adjust the amount to suit your spice tolerance
- Garlic powder: to layer in savory flavor
- Onion powder: enhances the overall taste depth
- Paprika: boosts smoky notes best if you find sweet or smoked varieties
- Salt: balances and brings out all flavors measure carefully
- Black pepper: for subtle heat and complexity
- Plain flour: for dredging and helping the coating stick
- Eggs: beaten to create a binding and adhesive layer for breadcrumbs
- Breadcrumbs: use panko or regular for the crispest results on frying
- Vegetable or canola oil for frying: choose oils with high smoke points to avoid burning
How to Make It
- Sauté and Season the Chicken:
- Cook the ground chicken over medium heat until no longer pink. Stir in the buffalo sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Let it cool slightly so it’s easier to handle.
- Prepare the Filling Components:
- Combine the crumbled bacon with the buffalo chicken mixture. Set aside the mozzarella cubes separately for stuffing.
- Form the Bombs:
- Take about two tablespoons of the chicken mixture and flatten it in your hand. Place a cube of mozzarella in the center then add a little more bacon-chicken mixture over to cover the cheese fully. Shape it into a tight ball, making sure the cheese is sealed inside without any gaps.
- Bread the Bombs:
- Roll each ball in plain flour to coat lightly, then dip into the beaten eggs, making sure each bomb is fully coated. Finally, roll them in breadcrumbs thoroughly for that golden crunch.
- Fry to Perfection:
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan or fryer to about 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Fry the bombs in batches, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crispy on all sides about four to six minutes. Use a slotted spoon to transfer to paper towels to drain excess oil.
- Serve Hot:
- These are best enjoyed immediately while the mozzarella is warm and gooey. Serve alongside ranch or blue cheese dressing if desired for dipping.
Mozzarella is my favorite ingredient here because it delivers that irresistible gooey surprise with every bite. I remember making these for a big game night and watching everyone delighted as the cheese stretched and pulled apart — it quickly became everyone’s favorite. The smoky bacon mixed with the spicy sauce makes it impossible to stop at just one.
Flavor Boosters
Storage tips Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at moderate heat for a few minutes to regain crispness rather than using the microwave, which can make them soggy. For longer storage, freeze the uncooked balls shaped and breaded on a tray before transferring to a freezer bag.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these bombs with cooling dips such as ranch, blue cheese, or even a cool avocado crema. Pair with celery sticks or carrot sticks to bring a fresh crunch alongside the warm bites. They can stand alone as finger food or accompany a vibrant salad for a fuller meal.
Creative Twists
Cultural context Buffalo sauce originated in Buffalo New York and is famous for its balance of buttery heat combined with vinegar tang. Integrating it into bite-sized bombs is an inventive take that keeps the spirit of classic buffalo wings while making snacking easier and less messy. Seasonal adaptations In colder months, add a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne to boost warmth and depth. During summer, try adding chopped herbs like fresh parsley or chives to the chicken mix for a lighter twist. Adjust buffalo sauce quantity depending on your desired heat level according to the season or occasion.
These Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs bring a perfect mix of heat, smoke, and cheese that always impresses. They are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser with just the right crispy and gooey balance every time.
Common Questions About This Recipe
- → What alternatives can be used for ground chicken?
Ground turkey or lean beef can be used as substitutes for ground chicken, providing similar texture and flavor profiles.
- → How spicy are these buffalo bombs?
The level of spiciness can be adjusted by varying the amount of buffalo sauce used according to personal preference.
- → Can these bombs be baked instead of fried?
Yes, baking at a high temperature can provide a crisp exterior though frying delivers a crunchier texture.
- → What type of cheese works best in these bombs?
Mozzarella cheese is preferred for its melting quality and mild flavor that complements the spicy filling.
- → How should leftovers be stored?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days and reheat in the oven for best texture retention.