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Parmesan Cloud Chicken Bombs are juicy little bites of oven-baked ground chicken, covered with a golden crispy Parmesan crust and smothered in a creamy cheese sauce. Served over fluffy mashed potatoes, this dish feels like a warm hug on a plate after a busy day. It’s filling without being heavy, perfect for weeknight dinners or a cozy family meal.
I first made these on a chilly evening when I wanted something comforting but quick. My family devoured them and now it’s a regular request around here
Ingredients
- Ground chicken: lean and juicy, it forms the perfect base for tender bombs
- Egg: holds everything together without making the mixture dense
- Panko breadcrumbs: add crunch and lightness, opt for fresh for the best texture
- Parmesan cheese: packs rich umami and helps create that golden crust, freshly grated works best
- Garlic: enhances flavor with its aromatic kick, use fresh and minced finely
- Fresh parsley: adds a bright herbal note and a pop of color
- Onion powder and paprika: deepen the flavor and add mild warmth
- Salt and black pepper: essential for seasoning
- Butter: base for the creamy sauce, brings richness
- All-purpose flour: thickens the sauce smoothly
- Milk or half-and-half: choose based on how rich you like your sauce
- Mozzarella cheese: melts beautifully for a gooey finish
- Nutmeg: just a pinch to lift the sauce with subtle warmth
- Mashed potatoes or cauliflower purée: perfect for soaking up the sauce
- Fresh herbs for garnish: parsley or thyme brighten the final dish
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Sauté the Aromatics and Prepare the Chicken:
- In a large bowl gently combine ground chicken egg breadcrumbs Parmesan garlic parsley onion powder paprika salt and black pepper. Take care not to overmix to keep the bombs tender.
- Shape and Bake the Chicken Bombs:
- Form the mixture into golf-ball-sized balls and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment. Bake in a preheated 400-degree oven for 20 to 25 minutes until cooked through and the tops are golden.
- Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce:
- While the chicken bakes melt butter over medium heat in a saucepan then whisk in flour. Cook for about one minute to get rid of the raw flour taste. Slowly whisk in milk until sauce is smooth and starts to thicken. Stir in Parmesan mozzarella nutmeg salt and pepper until creamy and fully combined.
- Finish Under the Broiler:
- Transfer baked chicken bombs to a baking dish and pour the creamy sauce evenly over the top. Place under the broiler for 3 to 5 minutes until the sauce is bubbly and golden on top.
- Serve and Garnish:
- Plate the chicken bombs over a bed of mashed potatoes or cauliflower purée. Sprinkle with fresh parsley or thyme for color and added flavor. Serve immediately while warm.
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My favorite ingredient has to be the Parmesan cheese because it delivers a nutty savory crust that contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce. I have vivid memories of making these for a family gathering and watching everyone go back for seconds with smiles all around.
Storage Tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat gently warm in the oven so the sauce doesn’t separate. You can also freeze the chicken bombs before baking. Freeze on a tray until solid then transfer to a freezer bag and bake directly from frozen just add extra time.
Ingredient Substitutions
Ground turkey works well if chicken is not available offering a similar texture and mild flavor. You can swap mozzarella for provolone or even a mild cheddar to change up the creamy sauce profile. Use almond milk or oat milk instead of dairy milk for a lighter version keeping in mind sauce texture might vary slightly.
Serving Suggestions
Serve over mashed potatoes for classic comfort or switch to cauliflower purée for a low-carb option. A simple green salad or steamed vegetables round out the meal nicely. Pickled vegetables or a tangy coleslaw can add a nice contrast to the rich creamy sauce.
Cultural Context
This recipe is a modern American twist on classic comfort food with its emphasis on creamy cheese sauce and baked chicken. The use of Parmesan introduces an Italian flair that pairs beautifully with the familiar mashed potatoes making it feel both homey and a bit elevated.
Pro Tips
Make sure not to overmix the chicken to keep bombs light and tender. Toast the Parmesan slightly before mixing to deepen its flavor—this is a trick I learned the hard way and it makes a big difference. When broiling the sauce watch carefully as it can go from perfectly golden to burnt in seconds.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of cheese is used for the crust?
Grated Parmesan cheese is mixed into the breadcrumb coating to create a crunchy, flavorful crust.
- → Can I use another ground meat besides chicken?
Yes, ground turkey can be used as a substitute to keep the dish equally tender and flavorful.
- → How do I prevent the chicken balls from being dry?
Gently combine the ingredients without overmixing and avoid overbaking to maintain juiciness in the chicken bombs.
- → What is the purpose of nutmeg in the sauce?
A pinch of nutmeg adds warmth and depth to the creamy cheese sauce, balancing the richness.
- → What side pairs well with the baked chicken bombs?
Fluffy mashed potatoes or cauliflower purée provide a soft, comforting base that complements the crispy chicken and creamy sauce.
- → Can the sauce be made ahead of time?
Yes, the creamy Parmesan sauce can be prepared in advance and gently reheated with a splash of milk before serving.