Picture this: the big game is just around the corner, and the scent of something delicious fills the kitchen. That’s how I stumbled upon the ultimate crowd-pleaser—Tasty Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs. These fiery, cheesy bites are the perfect antidote to boring snacks that leave you feeling unsatisfied. Each bite reveals a tantalizing mix of savory ground chicken, crispy bacon, and gooey mozzarella—an explosion of flavor that everyone will rave about.
Whether you’re hosting a game day gathering or simply looking to jazz up your weeknight meals, these little bombs deliver comfort and excitement all in one. Best of all, they cater to different dietary needs with easy swaps, so no one has to miss out on this mouthwatering experience. And with just a few simple steps, you can have these golden delights ready to impress, making every occasion feel special. Get ready to transform your snack game!
Why are Tasty Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs a Must-Try?
Flavor Explosion: Each bite is a delightful mix of savory chicken and crispy bacon, complemented by molten mozzarella.
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfectly suited for game days or parties, these treats are sure to impress your guests.
Customizable: Easy swaps for ground turkey or gluten-free breadcrumbs ensure everyone can indulge.
Simplicity: With just a few steps, you’ll have these golden bombs ready in no time, making them a hassle-free option for busy weeknights.
Versatile Serving: Pair them with blue cheese dressing or celery sticks for a balanced snack experience!
Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep in advance and simply fry or bake when ready to wow your friends and family!
Tasty Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs Ingredients
For the Filling
- Ground Chicken – A savory base for these tasty Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs; consider substituting with ground turkey for a lighter option.
- Cooked Bacon – Provides a delicious crunch; crumble it well for easy wrapping around the mozzarella.
- Mozzarella Cheese – Use fresh mozzarella cut into 1-inch cubes for that gooey, cheesy center.
- Buffalo Sauce – Adds a fiery kick; feel free to adjust the heat level or swap it out for honey barbecue for a milder taste.
- Garlic Powder – Elevates the flavor profile beautifully.
- Onion Powder – Adds depth and enhances the overall taste.
- Paprika – Gives warmth and a pop of color to the mixture.
- Salt & Black Pepper – Essential for balancing all the flavors perfectly.
For the Coating
- Plain Flour – Helps breadcrumbs stick; a crucial element for that crispy outer layer.
- Large Eggs – Binds crumbs for that perfect crunch when cooked.
- Breadcrumbs (Panko or Regular) – Panko offers an extra crunch, making them even more irresistible.
For Cooking
- Vegetable Oil or Canola Oil – Needed for frying; use enough to achieve that golden-brown exterior.
Dive into the fun of making these Tasty Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs, whether for game day or a cozy night in!
How to Make Tasty Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs
- Prepare Ingredients: Start by cutting the mozzarella into 1-inch cubes and crumble the cooked bacon. Set both aside to make wrapping easier.
- Wrap Cheese: Take a piece of crumbled bacon and ensure it wraps around each mozzarella cube completely, creating a savory bite that pairs perfectly with the chicken.
- Mix Filling: In a mixing bowl, blend ground chicken, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, and half of the buffalo sauce until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Form Bombs: Take a handful of the chicken mixture and flatten it in your palm. Place the bacon-wrapped mozzarella in the center and encase it with the chicken, rolling it into a ball.
- Coat Bombs: Next, roll each bomb in flour, then dip in beaten eggs, and finally, coat with breadcrumbs, ensuring even coverage for that desired crunch.
- Cook: Heat oil to 350°F (175°C) in a large skillet and fry 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 until crispy and cooked through.
- Finish & Serve: After cooking, drizzle the remaining buffalo sauce over the bombs and serve hot. These tasty bites are best enjoyed fresh!
Optional: Serve with celery sticks or blue cheese dressing for a refreshing contrast.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Tasty Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine and customize these delicious bites with these fun twists!
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Gluten-Free: Swap regular breadcrumbs for gluten-free panko and use almond flour instead of plain flour to cater to dietary needs.
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Turkey Twist: Replace ground chicken with lean ground turkey for a lighter yet equally satisfying option. It maintains the flavors while trimming the calories!
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Sauce Swap: Experiment by switching buffalo sauce for a honey barbecue or teriyaki glaze for a sweeter, milder flavor profile.
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Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or cayenne pepper to the filling for an extra heat level that will surely excite your taste buds. Your friends will love the sizzling twist!
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Cheese Delight: Try using pepper jack cheese or a blend of mozzarella and cheddar for an interesting flavor profile and zest in every bite.
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Vegetarian Version: Substitute ground chicken with a combination of cooked quinoa and black beans for a plant-based bomb that still packs protein and flavor.
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Baked Version: For a healthier take, brush the bombs with olive oil and bake them for a lighter version that still delivers crunch.
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Crispy Coating: Mix in some grated Parmesan with your breadcrumbs for an added layer of flavor and an irresistible golden crust.
Every variation brings its unique flair to these tasty bombs, ensuring that you have plenty of options to keep your snack game exciting!
What to Serve with Tasty Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs?
These flavorful bites pack a punch and create the perfect base for an exciting spread that caters to everyone’s taste.
- Crunchy Celery Sticks: Their refreshing crunch provides a delightful contrast that balances the richness of the bombs.
- Blue Cheese Dressing: A classic companion, it enhances the buffalo flavor and adds a creamy touch that is simply irresistible.
- Cool Coleslaw: The creamy, tangy slaw lightens the meal, making it a fantastic side that complements the bold flavors of the bombs.
- Spicy Pickles: These zesty bites add a tangy kick that cuts through the richness, taking your flavor experience to a whole new level.
- Garlic Parmesan Fries: Golden, crispy fries with a savory garlic parmesan blend make for a hearty pairing that everyone will love. They soak up extra dipping sauces beautifully!
- Refreshing Cucumber Salad: A light salad with crisp cucumbers and a sprinkle of dill creates a fresh side that refreshes your palate between bites.
- Beer or Cider: Pair these spicy bombs with your favorite cold brew or apple cider for a refreshing drink that perfectly complements the heat.
- Chocolate Chip Cookies: End the meal on a sweet note with warm, gooey cookies—this contrast is a nostalgic way to finish any gathering.
How to Store and Freeze Tasty Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs
Fridge: Store leftover bombs in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain their flavor and texture. Reheat in the oven for best results.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze uncooked bombs on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To reheat, bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through and crispy on the outside.
Make-Ahead: Prepare and refrigerate the bombs for up to 24 hours before cooking. Coat with breadcrumbs just before frying or baking to keep them crunchy.
Expert Tips for Tasty Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs
- Chill for Shape: Refrigerate the assembled bombs for about 30 minutes before cooking. This helps maintain their shape and enhances crispiness.
- Avoid Leakage: Ensure every mozzarella cube is fully encased in chicken to prevent cheese from oozing out during cooking.
- Panko Crunch: Opt for panko breadcrumbs instead of regular ones for an extra crispy exterior that elevates these Tasty Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs.
- Cooking Variants: Choose between frying for a rich, indulgent treat or baking for a healthier alternative—both methods yield delicious results.
- Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze uncooked bombs for up to 3 months—great for unexpected cravings!
Make Ahead Options
These Tasty Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs are perfect for meal prep! You can mix and form the chicken filling and wrap the mozzarella in bacon up to 24 hours in advance. Simply assemble the bombs, then refrigerate them until you’re ready to cook. This method maintains their shape and ensures a crispy texture when cooked. When it’s game day, just dredge the bombs in flour, dip them in beaten eggs, and coat with breadcrumbs before frying or baking. Enjoy fresh, restaurant-quality results with minimal effort, making your preparation easy and your gathering stress-free!
Tasty Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs Recipe FAQs
What type of mozzarella is best for the filling?
I recommend using fresh mozzarella since it provides the perfect gooey center when melted. Aim for mozzarella that’s firm yet slightly soft, and cut it into 1-inch cubes to ensure it melts beautifully inside each bomb.
How do I store leftover Tasty Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs?
To keep your delicious bombs fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheating in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes will help restore that delightful crunch!
Can I freeze these bombs?
Absolutely! If you want to prepare for cravings, freeze your uncooked mozzarella bombs! Place them on a baking sheet in a single layer until firm, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just remember to bake them straight from the freezer when you’re ready to indulge!
What if the mozzarella leaks during cooking?
To prevent leaks, ensure that each mozzarella cube is completely encased in the chicken mixture. Take your time molding the chicken around the cheese, and if they’re chilled for about 30 minutes before cooking, you’ll have better results and less leakage during frying or baking.
Are there any dietary modifications I can make?
Yes! You can substitute ground chicken with ground turkey or lean beef for a lighter option. Additionally, if you’re looking to make the recipe gluten-free, just swap regular breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs and use almond flour instead of plain flour. This way, everyone can enjoy these tasty bombs!
How long can I keep the assembled bombs in the fridge before cooking?
You can prepare and leave the assembled bombs in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. Just be sure to coat them with breadcrumbs right before frying or baking to keep that perfect crunchy texture!
Tasty Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs That Wow Every Crowd
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare Ingredients: Start by cutting the mozzarella into 1-inch cubes and crumble the cooked bacon. Set both aside to make wrapping easier.
- Wrap Cheese: Take a piece of crumbled bacon and ensure it wraps around each mozzarella cube completely.
- Mix Filling: In a mixing bowl, blend ground chicken, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, and half of the buffalo sauce until smooth.
- Form Bombs: Flatten a handful of the chicken mixture in your palm. Place the bacon-wrapped mozzarella in the center and encase it with the chicken, rolling into a ball.
- Coat Bombs: Roll each bomb in flour, dip in 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. Alternatively, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 18–20 minutes.
- Finish & Serve: Drizzle the remaining buffalo sauce over the bombs and serve hot.