Buffalo Chicken Bacon Bombs

Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs bring together the irresistible flavors of spicy buffalo sauce, smoky bacon, melting mozzarella, and tender chicken in one bite-sized snack. These are perfect for game days, casual gatherings, or whenever you want something indulgent yet satisfying.

Ingredients

• Mozzarella cheese: cut into cubes offers the creamy, melty center that is the star of the show. Choose fresh, whole-milk mozzarella for best melt and flavor
• Cooked bacon: crumbled adds smoky saltiness which pairs beautifully with the chicken and cheese
• Ground chicken: a lean protein that also keeps the bombs tender and juicy
• Buffalo sauce: brings a spicy tang and vibrant color opting for your favorite brand or homemade version helps tailor the heat
• Garlic powder: builds a warm aromatic base
• Onion powder: builds a warm aromatic base
• Paprika: builds a warm aromatic base. Grainy paprika adds the best depth
• Salt and black pepper: taste enhancers to balance the bold flavors
• Plain flour: for initial coating helps the egg and breadcrumbs adhere
• Eggs: beaten act as the glue to hold the crumb coating in place
• Breadcrumbs: provide the crispy crust opt for panko if you want extra crunch
• Vegetable oil or canola oil: for frying makes sure the bombs turn out golden and crisp without absorbing too much oil

Step-by-Step Instructions

Slicing the Cheese:

Cut the mozzarella into bite-sized cubes which will be the oozy center of your bombs. Handle gently to avoid breaking them apart

Wrapping with Bacon:

Take each cheese cube and wrap it evenly with crumbled cooked bacon. Set these aside on a plate while you prepare the chicken mixture

Mixing the Chicken:

In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken with garlic powder onion powder paprika salt pepper and half of the buffalo sauce. Mix thoroughly until the seasoning is evenly spread throughout the meat

Forming the Bombs:

Portion out some of the chicken mixture into your palm. Flatten it slightly then place a bacon-wrapped mozzarella cube in the center. Carefully mold the chicken all around the filling sealing it completely to avoid any leaks during cooking

Coating the Bombs:

Roll each formed chicken ball first in plain flour coating fully. Dip it next in the beaten egg which acts as adhesive. Finally coat with breadcrumbs pressing lightly to ensure a neat covering

Cooking the Bombs:

Heat oil to 175 degrees Celsius in a deep pan. Fry the coated balls for five to six minutes turning as needed until they turn golden brown and are cooked through. You can opt to bake them on a greased tray at 200 degrees Celsius for 18 to 20 minutes if you prefer a less oily snack

Saucing and Serving:

Once cooked and still hot toss the bombs in the remaining buffalo sauce or drizzle it over them. Add extra bacon crumbles if you want to amp up the flavor and presentation

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Storage Tips

Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Reheat gently in the oven or air fryer to keep the crust crispy. Avoid microwaving as it softens the coating. If freezing wrap individually before placing in a sealed container then bake from frozen adding a few extra minutes to cooking time

Ingredient Substitutions

Ground turkey or chicken thighs can replace ground chicken for different texture and flavor. Panko breadcrumbs give a crunchier exterior but regular breadcrumbs work well too. Mozzarella pearls can be used if cutting cubes is inconvenient. For a milder taste swap buffalo sauce with barbecue sauce or a spicy ranch dressing

Serving Suggestions

Serve with celery sticks and ranch or blue cheese dressing to balance the heat alongside your favorite beer or sparkling soda. These bombs pair well with a simple side salad or crunchy coleslaw for a fuller meal presentation. Add a squeeze of lime or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like cilantro for a fresh finish

Cultural Context

Buffalo sauce originated in Buffalo New York and rose to legendary status through chicken wings. Its tangy spicy profile is a go-to flavor across American bar foods. These bombs are a creative twist combining everything people love about buffalo chicken wings in a hand-held form perfect for sharing or solo snacking

Recipe FAQs

→ What type of cheese works best for these bombs?

Mozzarella cheese cut into bite-sized cubes is ideal as it melts smoothly, providing a creamy center that contrasts well with the crispy exterior.

→ Can the bombs be baked instead of fried?

Yes, baking at 200°C for 18-20 minutes produces a crisp outer layer while keeping the interior juicy, offering a lighter alternative to frying.

→ How can I adjust the spiciness of the buffalo sauce?

Try reducing or increasing the amount of buffalo sauce used inside and tossed on the bombs, tailored to your preferred heat level.

→ What type of bacon is recommended?

Cooked bacon crumbles add a smoky, salty crunch. Regular or thicker-cut bacon works well, just ensure it's fully cooked before wrapping.

→ Are these suitable for prep ahead or leftovers?

You can store the cooked bombs in the refrigerator for up to two days and reheat before serving to maintain their flavor and texture.