These irresistible Buffalo chicken bacon bombs combine spicy buffalo chicken with creamy cheese, all wrapped in crispy bacon.
Quick Answer: Buffalo chicken bacon bombs are made by wrapping seasoned shredded chicken and cheese mixture in bacon strips, then baking at 375°F for 25-30 minutes until crispy. The bombs are brushed with buffalo sauce and served hot with blue cheese dressing.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Category: Appetizer
Difficulty: Intermediate
Cuisine: American
Yield: 8 bombs (4 servings)
Dietary: Low-carb
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Perfect combination of spicy, creamy, and crispy textures
- Can be prepped ahead for easy entertaining
- Great for game day or party appetizers
- Keto-friendly and gluten-free
- Freezer-friendly for make-ahead meals
Quick Benefits
Buffalo chicken bacon bombs deliver an explosion of flavors in every bite. These protein-packed appetizers are perfect for sharing, feature minimal ingredients, and can be customized to your preferred spice level.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1 cup buffalo sauce
- 8 ounces mozzarella cheese, cut into cubes
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 2 cups breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Vegetable oil, enough for deep frying
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, thoroughly blend ground chicken with buffalo sauce until the mixture is evenly coated.
- Scoop a portion of the chicken mixture and flatten it in your palm. Place a mozzarella cube and a small amount of crumbled bacon in the center. Encase the filling with chicken, forming a compact ball.
- Arrange flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs each in separate shallow bowls. Dredge each chicken ball lightly in flour, coat it in egg, then roll it in breadcrumbs to cover completely.
- Pour vegetable oil into a deep skillet to a depth of approximately 2 inches and heat to 350°F (175°C).
- Working in batches, gently lower breaded balls into the hot oil. Fry for 5 to 7 minutes, turning as needed, until uniformly golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Remove fried bombs with a slotted spoon and drain briefly on paper towels. Serve immediately with additional buffalo sauce for dipping.
You Must Know
- Ensure cream cheese is fully softened for smooth mixing
- Don’t overstuff the bombs or they may burst while cooking
- Use regular-cut bacon, not thick-cut, for proper wrapping
- Pat chicken very dry before mixing to prevent excess moisture
- Allow bombs to rest before serving to set filling
Serving Suggestions
- Blue cheese or ranch dressing for dipping
- Celery and carrot sticks
- Garden salad
- Cold beer or celery juice mocktail
Creative Variations
- BBQ sauce instead of buffalo for milder flavor
- Pepper jack cheese for extra heat
- Add finely diced jalapeños to filling
- Use turkey bacon for a lighter option
Cultural Notes
This recipe combines two American favorites: buffalo chicken and bacon-wrapped appetizers. Buffalo sauce originated in Buffalo, NY in 1964 at the Anchor Bar, while bacon-wrapped foods gained popularity in the 1990s as party appetizers.
Pro Tips
- Use rotisserie chicken for convenience
- Chill formed balls for 15 minutes before wrapping
- Spray rack with cooking spray to prevent sticking
- Monitor closely in last 5 minutes to prevent burning
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make buffalo chicken bacon bombs in an air fryer?
A: Yes, cook at 375°F for 12-15 minutes, turning halfway.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store in airtight container for up to 3 days; reheat in oven at 350°F.
Q: Can I freeze these?
A: Yes, freeze unbaked bombs for up to 3 months; thaw before baking.
Q: What’s the best chicken to use?
A: Rotisserie or poached chicken breast works best.
Q: How spicy are they?
A: Medium spicy; adjust buffalo sauce amount to taste.
Health Benefits
While indulgent, buffalo chicken bacon bombs provide significant protein from chicken and bacon. Using lean chicken and monitoring portion size makes them fit into a balanced diet. The recipe can be adapted with turkey bacon for less fat.
Nutrition
(Per serving, 2 bombs) Calories: 520 • Carbs: 3g • Protein: 35g • Fat: 42g • Sodium: 1280mg
Notes
For best results, use room temperature cream cheese and high-quality buffalo sauce.
Buffalo chicken bacon bombs
These irresistible Buffalo chicken bacon bombs combine spicy buffalo chicken with creamy cheese, all wrapped in crispy bacon.
Ingredients
Instructions
Notes
- For best results, use room temperature cream cheese and high-quality buffalo sauce.