There’s something irresistibly delightful about the sound of sizzling bacon mingling with spicy buffalo sauce that instantly brings friends and family together. These Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs are more than just a tasty appetizer; they are the life of the party, draped in crunchy breadcrumbs and hiding a molten core of gooey mozzarella. Perfect for game day or any social gathering, their bold flavors quickly transform an ordinary get-together into a culinary celebration.
Whether you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing dish that accommodates dietary preferences—like swapping the ground chicken for turkey or making it gluten-free with simple substitutions—or just something to satisfy your cravings, these bomb-shaped snacks are incredibly easy to whip up. Get ready to impress your guests with a dish that’s as fun to make as it is to eat!
Why are Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs a must-try?
Irresistible Crunch: The outer layer of crispy breadcrumbs contrasts beautifully with the melty mozzarella inside, creating a delightful textural experience in every bite.
Flavor-Packed: Infused with zesty buffalo sauce and savory bacon, these bombs offer a bold taste that dances on your palate.
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for parties, they quickly become a favorite among guests, making them the highlight of any gathering.
Customizable: Easily adapt this recipe to fit your dietary needs by using ground turkey or gluten-free breadcrumbs without sacrificing flavor.
Quick Preparation: With straightforward steps, you can have these tasty treats ready in no time—ideal for busy nights or surprise guests!
Ready to elevate your appetizer game? Check out these sandwiches for a fantastic complement to your Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs!
Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs Ingredients
For the Filling
• Mozzarella Cheese – Use fresh mozzarella cut into one-inch cubes for a creamy, gooey center.
• Cooked Bacon – Crumble before use for the perfect savory crunch.
• Ground Chicken – This base protein offers hearty flavor; easily swap for ground turkey or lean beef for a lighter dish.
• Buffalo Sauce – Adjust the amount based on your spice preference or substitute with honey barbecue for a milder version.
• Garlic Powder – A little kick to enhance the overall flavor profile.
• Onion Powder – Adds a lovely depth that rounds out the taste.
• Paprika – Provides warmth and gorgeous color to the filling.
• Salt & Black Pepper – Essential for balancing the dish’s flavors.
For Coating
• Plain Flour – Helps breadcrumbs adhere for a splendid coating.
• Large Eggs – Acts as a binder for that crispy finish when frying.
• Breadcrumbs (Panko or Regular) – Panko gives you that extra crunch; perfect for these Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs!
For Cooking
• Vegetable Oil or Canola Oil – Necessary for frying your bombs, creating that satisfying golden exterior.
How to Make Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs
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Prepare Mozzarella: Cut the mozzarella cheese into one-inch cubes. Set them aside; they’ll soon be transformed into gooey centers of delight.
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Wrap Cheese: Crumble the cooked bacon, then take a piece and wrap it fully around each mozzarella cube. Ensure it’s completely encased to keep that delicious cheese inside.
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Mix Chicken Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine ground chicken with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, and half of the buffalo sauce. Stir well until all ingredients are evenly mixed.
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Form Bombs: Take a handful of the chicken mixture, flatten it in your palm, and place a bacon-wrapped mozzarella at the center. Carefully encase it all around to form a perfect ball.
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Coat Bombs: Roll each shaped bomb in flour first, dip them into beaten eggs, and finally coat with breadcrumbs. Each layer adds to the crunch!
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Cook: Heat oil to 350°F (175°C) for frying, and cook the bombs for about 5-6 minutes until golden brown. Alternatively, bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 18-20 minutes.
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Finish & Serve: Drizzle the remaining buffalo sauce over the hot bombs, then serve immediately while they’re still sizzling and inviting.
Optional: Serve with a side of blue cheese dressing for dipping.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs
Room Temperature: Enjoy cooked bombs immediately for the best flavor; they can sit out for up to 2 hours before needing refrigeration.
Fridge: Store leftover bombs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in an air fryer for a crispy finish.
Freezer: Assemble the bombs without cooking, freeze on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months. Cook from frozen without thawing.
Make-Ahead Tip: Prepare bombs ahead of time and refrigerate before cooking to enhance the texture and flavor.
What to Serve with Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs?
Complement your thrilling appetizer with delightful sides that will enhance the overall experience.
- Creamy Blue Cheese Dressing: This classic dip perfectly balances the spicy buffalo flavor, providing a cool contrast that enhances each bite.
- Crunchy Celery Sticks: Their crisp freshness not only adds a refreshing bite but also keeps things light amidst the richness of the bombs.
- Sweet Potato Fries: The sweetness and texture of these fries provide a delicious contrast to the savory bombs and make for a satisfying meal.
- Mixed Green Salad: Tossed with tangy vinaigrette, it’s a refreshing way to balance the rich flavors and add a pop of color to your plate.
- Buffalo Cauliflower Bites: For those seeking a veggie twist, these spicy bites mirror the flavors of the bombs while offering a lighter, crunchy alternative.
- Cold Beer or Cider: Pairing your bombs with a cold brew enhances the festive mood and complements the bold flavors of buffalo sauce perfectly.
- Chocolate Chip Cookies: End on a sweet note! These warm, gooey cookies provide the perfect comforting contrast to the spicy appetizers and wrap up your meal with a smile.
Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine by customizing these bombs in delightful ways that suit your taste and dietary needs!
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Ground Turkey: Swap out ground chicken for ground turkey for a leaner, flavorful option that’s just as satisfying.
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Lean Beef: For a heartier variation, use lean beef in place of ground chicken—perfectly delicious and filling!
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Gluten-Free: Opt for gluten-free breadcrumbs and almond flour instead of regular flour for a gluten-free treat without sacrificing flavor.
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Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to the filling for an extra layer of heat that spice lovers will adore.
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Cheese Swap: Try using pepper jack cheese instead of mozzarella for a zesty twist that brings a creamy spice to every bite.
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Vegetarian: Replace the meat with a blend of black beans and corn for a delicious vegetarian alternative—just as tasty!
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Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like chopped cilantro or parsley into the chicken mixture for a burst of freshness.
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Bacon Variation: For smoky flavor, use prosciutto or pancetta in place of traditional bacon to give it an upscale touch that’s simply divine.
Expert Tips for Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs
• Seal It Well: Ensure the chicken fully encases the mozzarella to prevent any leakage during cooking; this will keep your bombs intact and gooey.
• Chill Before Cooking: Refrigerate the assembled bombs for about 30 minutes before frying or baking. This helps them maintain their shape and improves crispiness.
• Choose Panko: For extra crunch, use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular ones. They provide a delightful texture that complements these Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs.
• Monitor Oil Temperature: Use a kitchen thermometer to maintain oil at 350°F (175°C) for frying. If the temperature is too low, the bombs will absorb too much oil and become greasy.
• Air Fry Leftovers: To reheat any leftovers, use an air fryer for the best results. It’ll restore that lovely crispiness you loved when they were first made!
Make Ahead Options
These Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs are perfect for meal prep, making your busy weeknights more manageable! You can assemble the bombs up to 24 hours in advance. Simply wrap the bacon around the mozzarella, encase it with the chicken filling, and coat with breadcrumbs. Refrigerate them in an airtight container to maintain their delicious quality. When you’re ready to cook, just heat the oil or preheat the oven, and fry or bake the bombs until golden brown. This way, you’ll enjoy the same mouthwatering flavor and texture, with minimal effort when it’s time to serve your crowd-pleasing snacks!
Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs Recipe FAQs
What type of mozzarella cheese should I use for the bombs?
Absolutely use fresh mozzarella cut into one-inch cubes for that heavenly creamy, gooey center. For best results, look for cheese that is packed in water; it melts beautifully and gives you that stretching cheese effect with every bite.
How should I store leftovers after making Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs?
Store your cooked bombs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheating can be done in an air fryer for the best texture, making them crispy again! Just pop them in for about 5 minutes at 350°F (175°C) for delicious results.
Can I freeze these Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs?
Yes! In fact, freezing these is a great way to make them ahead of time. Assemble the bombs without cooking them, then place on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. After that, transfer the frozen bombs to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, cook directly from frozen—simply fry or bake until golden; no need to thaw!
What if my bombs break open while cooking?
It happens! If they break open, don’t worry too much; it’s typically due to not fully encasing the mozzarella with the chicken mixture. For the next attempt, ensure that you’ve made a complete seal around the cheese. If they do open, simply serve the gooey filling as a dip alongside the crispy outer shell!
Are there any dietary considerations for these bombs?
Very! For those who are gluten-free, replace regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free ones and use almond flour instead of plain flour. You can also swap ground chicken for ground turkey or a plant-based alternative to accommodate varying dietary needs without sacrificing flavor.
How long can I keep the uncooked, assembled bombs in the fridge before cooking?
You can refrigerate uncooked bombs for up to 24 hours prior to frying or baking. This not only helps them retain their shape and improves crispiness but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing your tasty experience!
Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs That WOW Your Guests
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare Mozzarella: Cut the mozzarella cheese into one-inch cubes. Set them aside.
- Wrap Cheese: Crumble the cooked bacon, then take a piece and wrap it around each mozzarella cube.
- Mix Chicken Filling: Combine ground chicken with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, and half of the buffalo sauce. Stir well.
- Form Bombs: Take a handful of the chicken mixture, flatten it, and place a bacon-wrapped mozzarella at the center. Encase it all.
- Coat Bombs: Roll each shaped bomb in flour, dip into beaten eggs, and coat with breadcrumbs.
- Cook: Heat oil to 350°F (175°C) and fry the bombs for about 5-6 minutes until golden brown, or bake at 400°F (200°C) for 18-20 minutes.
- Finish & Serve: Drizzle remaining buffalo sauce over hot bombs and serve immediately.
