Introduction
Buffalo Chicken Bacon Bombs are the quintessential appetizer for anyone who loves the fiery kick of buffalo sauce paired with the smoky, salty crunch of perfectly cooked bacon. When you think of a party snack that truly hits every taste bud, this recipe stands at the top of the list, offering a harmonious blend of textures and flavors that disappear from the plate in seconds. The magic lies in the core: a creamy, spicy chicken center that stays moist while the outer bacon shell transforms into a crispy, golden-brown armor. Whether you are hosting a Super Bowl gathering, a casual backyard BBQ, or just craving something indulgent on a Friday night, these bombs deliver a culinary experience that is both comforting and exhilarating.
Developing the perfect Buffalo Chicken Bacon Bombs requires a focus on quality ingredients and a bit of technique to ensure the bacon crisps up without overcooking the delicate chicken filling. Over the years, buffalo-flavored snacks have evolved from simple wings to complex stuffed delights, and this recipe represents the pinnacle of that evolution. By combining the boldness of aged cayenne pepper sauce with the rich fattiness of bacon, you create a profile that is famously associated with the city of Buffalo, New York, but elevated through the addition of bacon—the universal language of deliciousness. Get ready to dive deep into a recipe that will undoubtedly become a staple in your entertaining repertoire.
Why You’ll Love It
You will love these Buffalo Chicken Bacon Bombs because they offer a complete sensory experience in a single bite. The contrast between the cold, creamy ranch or blue cheese dipping sauce and the hot, spicy interior creates a dynamic that keeps you reaching for more. Moreover, this recipe is incredibly versatile; you can adjust the heat level to suit your guests' preferences by choosing different varieties of hot sauce or adding extra jalapeños. These snacks are also surprisingly filling, making them more than just a light nibble; they are substantial enough to satisfy even the hungriest fans during a long game. Most importantly, the combination of buffalo chicken and bacon is a timeless pairing that appeals to almost everyone, ensuring that your efforts in the kitchen are met with rave reviews and empty platters.
Ingredients
To create the most succulent Buffalo Chicken Bacon Bombs, you will need the following high-quality components:
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie works great)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- 1/2 cup buffalo hot sauce (aged cayenne variety)
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1 lb thin-cut bacon (avoid thick-cut as it takes too long to crisp)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Toothpicks for securing the bacon
Notes and Substitutions
If you find yourself missing an ingredient for your Buffalo Chicken Bacon Bombs, don't worry. You can substitute the cheddar for pepper jack if you want an extra layer of heat. For a lighter version, consider using turkey bacon, though keep in mind it doesn't always wrap as easily as pork bacon. If you don't have shredded chicken on hand, you can learn more about preparing it efficiently in The Ultimate Guide to Mastering Versatile Shredded Chicken Recipes. Using a high-quality, room-temperature cream cheese is non-negotiable, as it ensures a smooth, lump-free filling that distributes the buffalo heat evenly.
Equipment
To make Buffalo Chicken Bacon Bombs, you will need a large mixing bowl, a rimmed baking sheet, and a wire cooling rack that fits inside the baking sheet. The rack allows air to circulate around the bombs, ensuring the bacon is crispy on the bottom as well as the top. You may also want a Quality Chef's Knife for precisely chopping your green onions and slicing the bacon into smaller strips if necessary.
Instructions
Follow these steps to master the Buffalo Chicken Bacon Bombs:
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup. Place a wire rack on top of the sheet.
- Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, softened cream cheese, buffalo sauce, shredded cheddar, green onions, and spices. Mix until the buffalo chicken is fully coated and the mixture is cohesive.
- Step 3: Scoop out approximately 1.5 to 2 tablespoons of the mixture and roll it into a ball. If the mixture is too soft, chill it in the refrigerator for 20 minutes.
- Step 4: Take one slice of bacon and wrap it around the chicken ball, ensuring as much of the surface is covered as possible. Use a second half-slice if necessary.
- Step 5: Secure the bacon with a toothpick and place the Buffalo Chicken Bacon Bombs onto the wire rack.
- Step 6: Bake for 20-25 minutes. If the bacon isn't crispy enough, turn on the broiler for the last 2 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.
- Step 7: Let the bombs rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the cheese to set. According to USDA Safety Guidelines, poultry products should always reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
Pro Tips
For the best Buffalo Chicken Bacon Bombs, always use thin-cut bacon. Thick-cut bacon takes significantly longer to render its fat and become crispy, which can lead to the chicken filling drying out or the cheese completely melting away before the exterior is ready. Another secret is to ensure the chicken filling is chilled before wrapping; this helps the bombs maintain their shape in the high heat of the oven. Finally, don't skip the wire rack. Elevating the Buffalo Chicken Bacon Bombs is the only way to avoid the dreaded "soggy bottom" bacon. If you want a sweet and spicy kick, lightly dust the wrapped bombs with brown sugar before baking to create a candied bacon finish.
Serving, Storage & Variations
Serve your Buffalo Chicken Bacon Bombs alongside a bowl of cool ranch or blue cheese dressing and crisp celery sticks. This provides a classic buffalo wing experience in a whole new format. For a sweet ending to your spicy meal, consider trying The Ultimate Amazing Cornmeal Cookie Recipe for a Perfect Crunch. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, avoid the microwave as it makes the bacon rubbery; instead, use an air fryer or oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes. Variations include adding a small cube of blue cheese to the center of each bomb for a surprise burst of flavor.
Nutrition Information
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 285 kcal |
| Protein | 18g |
| Carbohydrates | 4g |
| Fat | 22g |
Disclaimer: The nutrition information provided is an estimate based on standard ingredient measurements and may vary depending on the brands used.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Buffalo Chicken Bacon Bombs are more than just a snack; they are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that brings excitement to any event. By combining the classic flavors of buffalo chicken with the irresistible lure of bacon, you create an appetizer that is as fun to make as it is to eat. Don't be afraid to experiment with different cheeses or sauces to make this recipe your own. Your guests will be begging for the recipe before the first quarter is over!
FAQs
Can I make Buffalo Chicken Bacon Bombs in the air fryer?
Yes, you can cook Buffalo Chicken Bacon Bombs in an air fryer at 375u00b0F (190u00b0C) for about 12-15 minutes or until the bacon is crispy and the internal temperature reaches 165u00b0F.
How do I prevent the cheese from leaking out?
To prevent leaking, ensure you wrap the bacon tightly and overlap the edges. Using a toothpick to secure the bacon also helps maintain the structure of the Buffalo Chicken Bacon Bombs during cooking.
What is the best type of chicken to use?
Pre-cooked shredded chicken is best. You can use rotisserie chicken or follow our guide on The Ultimate Guide to Mastering Versatile Shredded Chicken Recipes for the perfect texture.
Can I prepare these in advance?
Absolutely! You can assemble the Buffalo Chicken Bacon Bombs up to 24 hours in advance and store them in the refrigerator before baking or frying.
Buffalo Chicken Bacon Bombs
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 12-15 bombs 1x
- Diet: Low-Carb
Description
A spicy and creamy buffalo chicken filling wrapped in crispy bacon and baked to golden perfection.
Ingredients
2 cups cooked shredded chicken
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup buffalo sauce
1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
1/4 cup green onions, sliced
1 lb thin-cut bacon
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat oven to 400°F and prepare a baking sheet with a wire rack.
Step 2: Mix shredded chicken, cream cheese, buffalo sauce, cheddar, and green onions in a bowl.
Step 3: Form the mixture into 1-inch balls.
Step 4: Wrap each ball tightly with a strip of bacon and secure with a toothpick.
Step 5: Place on the rack and bake for 20-25 minutes until bacon is crisp.
Step 6: Let rest for 5 minutes before serving with ranch or blue cheese dip.
Notes
Ensure bacon is thin-cut for the best results. If the chicken mixture is too sticky, wet your hands slightly when rolling.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 bombs
- Calories: 285 kcal
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 750mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
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