Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs are little pockets of flavor that pack a punch! Each bite is filled with spicy buffalo chicken, crispy bacon, and gooey melted mozzarella, all wrapped in a soft, golden dough. They’re like a tasty surprise that’s perfect for game day, snacks, or just whenever you want something delicious and filling.
I love making these because they’re fun to eat and super satisfying. The spicy buffalo sauce gives them a nice kick, but the bacon and cheese balance it out perfectly with some smoky, creamy goodness. I usually make a big batch because everyone wants seconds—and sometimes thirds! A handy tip is to keep some ranch or blue cheese dressing nearby for dipping; it really cools down the heat and makes each bite even better.
These bombs are great for sharing with friends or family, and they always get people talking. I like to serve them with a simple side salad or some crunchy veggies to add a fresh touch. Honestly, they’re one of those recipes that bring people together around the table, making any occasion feel a little more fun and tasty.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Using cooked, shredded chicken helps the filling come together easily. Store-bought rotisserie chicken works great if you want to save time.
Buffalo Sauce: This gives the bombs their spicy kick. If you prefer less heat, reduce the amount or substitute with a mild wing sauce or even a smoky BBQ sauce.
Bacon: Adds a smoky crunch that balances the spice. Turkey bacon or plant-based bacon can be used if you want a lighter or vegetarian-friendly option.
Cheese: Mozzarella provides gooey meltiness while cheddar adds sharp flavor. You can swap cheddar for pepper jack for extra spice or use all mozzarella for a milder taste.
Dough: Refrigerated biscuit or pizza dough makes wrapping easy. If fresh dough is preferred, you can use homemade pizza dough or even puff pastry for a flakier texture.
How Do I Seal the Bombs So the Filling Doesn’t Leak?
Sealing the dough properly is key to keep the filling inside while frying. Here are some tips:
- Flatten the dough into a good-sized disc so you have enough to fold and pinch shut fully.
- Place a heaping tablespoon of filling in the center, but don’t overfill.
- Bring edges up evenly and pinch tightly together, then twist a bit to secure the seam.
- Check for any holes or gaps and press those edges firmly to close them.
- If your dough feels dry and cracks, lightly wet your fingers with water before sealing; this helps the dough stick better.
Taking your time on this step helps prevent leaks and keeps the bombs crispy and neat during frying.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Deep fryer or large heavy skillet – perfect for frying the bombs evenly and getting a nice golden crust.
- Tongs or slotted spoon – helps you lift the bombs safely out of hot oil without breaking them.
- Mixing bowl – for combining the chicken, cheese, and bacon filling easily.
- Rolling pin or your hands – to flatten the dough discs just right for wrapping the filling.
- Paper towels – to drain excess oil after frying and keep the bombs crispy.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use shredded rotisserie turkey instead of chicken for a seasonal twist that’s just as tasty.
- Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne to the filling for extra spice if you love heat.
- Swap mozzarella for pepper jack cheese to give a zingy, spicy touch to the gooey center.
- Mix in sautéed mushrooms or spinach to add a bit of earthiness and some greens.
Buffalo Chicken Bacon Mozzarella Bombs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Filling:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
- ½ cup buffalo sauce (adjust to heat preference)
- ½ cup cooked bacon, chopped (reserve some for topping)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup chopped green onions (optional; half for filling, half for garnish)
For The Dough & Frying:
- 1 package refrigerated biscuit dough or pizza dough (about 8-10 biscuits)
- Oil for frying (vegetable or canola oil)
For Serving:
- Ranch or blue cheese dressing, for drizzling or dipping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes to prepare and 15 minutes to fry, for a total of around 35 minutes. It’s quick enough for a weekend snack or game day appetizer.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Filling:
In a large bowl, mix shredded chicken, buffalo sauce, softened cream cheese, chopped bacon (reserve some for later), mozzarella, cheddar cheese, and half of the green onions. Stir well until everything is combined into a creamy, spicy filling.
2. Prepare and Fill the Dough:
Separate the biscuit or pizza dough into individual pieces. Flatten each piece into a thin round shape large enough to hold a heaping tablespoon of the filling. Place the filling in the center of each dough round.
3. Seal the Bombs:
Bring the edges of the dough up over the filling and pinch firmly to seal, forming a ball. Make sure there are no gaps or holes so the filling doesn’t leak while frying.
4. Fry the Bombs:
Heat oil in a deep fryer or a deep skillet to 350°F (175°C). Carefully drop the filled dough balls into the hot oil in batches, frying them until golden brown and crispy, about 3–4 minutes. Turn occasionally for even cooking.
5. Drain and Garnish:
Remove the bombs from the oil and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil. While still warm, drizzle ranch or blue cheese dressing over them. Sprinkle the reserved bacon and remaining green onions on top for a tasty garnish.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the buffalo chicken bacon mozzarella bombs hot with extra ranch or blue cheese dressing on the side for dipping. These gooey, spicy bites are perfect for sharing or enjoying as a delicious snack!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for the Filling?
Yes! Just make sure the chicken is fully thawed before shredding. You can thaw frozen chicken overnight in the fridge or use the defrost setting on your microwave. Pat it dry to avoid extra moisture in the filling.
Can I Bake Instead of Frying?
Definitely! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), place the filled dough balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and bake for about 15-20 minutes or until golden and cooked through. This is a lighter alternative to frying.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover bombs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes to keep the crust crispy and the cheese melty.
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
Yes! Assemble and seal the bombs, then freeze them on a baking sheet until firm. Transfer to a freezer bag and keep for up to 2 months. Fry or bake straight from frozen—just add a few extra minutes to cooking time.
