Buffalo Chicken Bombs

Are you ready to ignite your taste buds with a burst of flavor? Look no further than these incredible Buffalo Chicken Bombs! Imagine golden-brown, fluffy dough encasing a molten core of spicy, tangy buffalo chicken, all brought together with a cool, creamy ranch or blue cheese dressing. These aren’t just a snack; they’re a sensation, a perfect appetizer, game-day treat, or even a fun, casual meal.
Buffalo chicken has a storied history, originating in Buffalo, New York, in the 1960s. The classic buffalo wing quickly became a global phenomenon, cherished for its distinctive kick and savory depth. But why limit that incredible flavor to just wings? We’ve taken the essence of buffalo chicken and wrapped it in a comforting, delightful package that’s easy to make and even easier to devour. This recipe transforms the beloved spicy chicken into a portable, pop-in-your-mouth experience that will leave everyone clamoring for more.
What makes these Buffalo Chicken Bombs so irresistible? It’s the perfect harmony of textures and tastes. The exterior is a beautifully baked, slightly sweet and savory bread, offering a satisfying chew. Inside, the shredded chicken, generously coated in a zesty buffalo sauce, delivers that signature heat and tang that buffalo lovers adore. And the secret weapon? A dollop of cooling dressing, which melts slightly into the chicken, creating a luscious, creamy counterpoint to the spice. This combination is simply magical, ensuring every bite is a balanced explosion of flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Flavor Explosion: Every bite is packed with the classic, beloved taste of buffalo chicken.

Irresistible Texture: Soft, fluffy bread gives way to tender, saucy chicken.

Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for parties, game days, potlucks, or a fun family dinner.

Easy to Make: Uses readily available ingredients and a straightforward process.

Customizable: Adjust the spice level to your preference and experiment with different dressings.

Crowd-Pleaser: These disappear fast, so be prepared to make a double batch!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making these Buffalo Chicken Bombs is simpler than you might think. Here’s a breakdown of the key ingredients:

For the Chicken Filling:

Cooked Chicken: About 2-3 cups, shredded. You can use leftover roasted chicken, rotisserie chicken, or boil/bake chicken breasts specifically for this recipe.

Buffalo Sauce: Your favorite brand of buffalo wing sauce. Adjust the amount to control the spice level.

Cream Cheese: Softened, it adds creaminess and helps bind the filling.

Cheddar Cheese: Shredded, for extra cheesy goodness and flavor.

Green Onions: Sliced, for a mild oniony flavor and a pop of color. (Optional, but recommended)

Garlic Powder & Onion Powder: To enhance the savory notes of the chicken.

Black Pepper: Freshly ground, to taste.

For the Dough:

Refrigerated Biscuit Dough: The star of the show for convenience! A can of flaky or homestyle biscuits works perfectly. This saves so much time and effort compared to making dough from scratch.

Melted Butter: For brushing the tops of the bombs, giving them a beautiful golden crust and a rich flavor.

Garlic Powder (for butter, optional): A pinch mixed with the melted butter adds an extra layer of savory deliciousness.

Parsley or Chives (for garnish, optional): Freshly chopped, for a vibrant finish and hint of freshness.

For Serving (Optional but highly recommended):

Ranch Dressing or Blue Cheese Dressing: For dipping or an extra drizzle inside the bombs.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps to create your own batch of irresistible Buffalo Chicken Bombs.

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Filling

Shred the Chicken: If you haven’t already, shred your cooked chicken. Aim for small, manageable pieces that will fit easily into the biscuit dough.
Combine Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the shredded chicken, softened cream cheese, buffalo sauce, shredded cheddar cheese, green onions (if using), garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper.
Mix Thoroughly: Use a spoon or your hands to mix everything together until well combined. Make sure the chicken is evenly coated with the sauce and cheese. This ensures every bite has that fantastic buffalo flavor.

Step 2: Assemble the Bombs

Preheat Oven & Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish (a 9×13 inch pan works well for a standard can of biscuits) or line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Open Biscuits: Carefully open the can of refrigerated biscuit dough. Separate each biscuit.
Flatten Biscuits: On a clean, lightly floured surface or directly on your counter, gently flatten each biscuit into a round disk, about 3-4 inches in diameter. You can use your hands or a rolling pin. Don’t make them too thin, or they might tear when filled.
Fill the Biscuits: Place a spoonful (about 1-2 tablespoons, depending on biscuit size) of the buffalo chicken mixture into the center of each flattened biscuit. If you’re adding a dollop of ranch or blue cheese dressing inside, now is the time to add a small amount on top of the chicken filling.
Seal the Bombs: Carefully gather the edges of the biscuit dough around the filling, bringing them together at the top. Pinch the seams tightly to seal the bomb completely. Roll it gently in your hands to form a neat ball. It’s crucial to seal them well to prevent the filling from oozing out during baking.
Arrange in Pan: Place the sealed Buffalo Chicken Bombs seam-side down in your prepared baking dish or on the baking sheet. Leave a little space between each bomb to allow for even baking.

Step 3: Bake the Bombs

Brush with Butter: In a small bowl, melt the butter. If desired, stir in a pinch of garlic powder. Brush the tops of each Buffalo Chicken Bomb with the melted butter. This will help them turn a beautiful golden brown and add a lovely richness.
Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the biscuits are golden brown and cooked through. Baking times can vary depending on your oven and the size of your bombs, so keep an eye on them. The internal temperature should be hot and bubbly.
Garnish (Optional): Once baked, remove from the oven. If desired, sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley or chives for extra color and freshness.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve your Buffalo Chicken Bombs warm, either as is or with extra ranch or blue cheese dressing on the side for dipping. Be careful, the filling will be hot!

Tips for Success

Don’t Overfill: While it’s tempting to load up the filling, resist the urge! Overfilling can make it difficult to seal the biscuits, leading to messy leaks during baking.

Seal Tightly: This is key! Pinch the seams of the dough firmly to ensure the filling stays put. If there are any small gaps, the cheese and sauce can escape.

Spice Level Adjustment: For a milder flavor, use less buffalo sauce. For more heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the chicken mixture or choose a spicier buffalo sauce.

Chicken Preparation: Ensure your chicken is finely shredded. This makes it easier to mix with the other ingredients and creates a more uniform filling. Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut for this!

Refrigerated Dough Variety: While standard flaky biscuits work great, you can experiment with other refrigerated doughs like crescent rolls or even pizza dough for a different texture. If using crescent rolls, you’ll need to press two triangles together to form a square before filling.

Make Ahead: You can prepare the chicken filling ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. This makes assembly even quicker when you’re ready to bake.

Freezing: You can freeze unbaked buffalo chicken bombs. Place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. When ready to bake, place frozen bombs in a baking dish, brush with butter, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.

Variations and Customizations

This recipe is incredibly versatile! Feel free to get creative and adapt it to your taste.

Cheesy Options: Experiment with different cheeses! Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a spicy pepper jack would all be delicious additions or substitutions.

Add Vegetables: Finely diced celery or carrots can be added to the chicken mixture for a little extra crunch and a nod to classic buffalo wing accompaniments. Just make sure they are very finely diced so they don’t tear the dough.

Different Sauces: While buffalo sauce is traditional, you could try a BBQ sauce, a sweet chili sauce, or even a spicy Korean gochujang sauce for a unique twist.

Herbs and Spices: Fresh cilantro, a dash of smoked paprika, or a pinch of cumin could add interesting flavor dimensions to the chicken filling.

Gourmet Toppings: After baking, sprinkle with crumbled blue cheese, a drizzle of hot sauce, or a sprinkle of crispy fried onions for extra flair.

Smaller Bites: For smaller appetizers, cut each biscuit in half before flattening, or use mini biscuit dough if available. Adjust baking time accordingly.

Serving Suggestions

Buffalo Chicken Bombs are fantastic on their own, but here are some ideas to make them part of a larger spread:

Dipping Sauces: Always serve with extra ranch or blue cheese dressing. A side of cooling yogurt dip or even just plain Greek yogurt can also provide a refreshing contrast to the spice.

Crunchy Veggies: Offer a platter of crisp celery sticks, carrot sticks, and cucumber slices on the side. They pair perfectly with buffalo flavors and provide a healthy crunch.

Game Day Spread: These are a must-have for any game day party! Pair them with other crowd-pleasing snacks like sliders, mini quiches, or a hearty dip.

Light Meal: Serve them alongside a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette for a satisfying and fun weeknight meal.

Brunch Item: Surprisingly, these can make a unique and savory addition to a brunch spread, especially for those who prefer savory over sweet in the morning.

Healthier Alternatives (Within the spirit of the recipe)

While these are a treat, you can make minor adjustments for a slightly healthier option:

Leaner Chicken: Opt for skinless, boneless chicken breast.

Reduced-Fat Ingredients: Use reduced-fat cream cheese and cheddar cheese.

Whole Wheat Biscuits: If you can find them, whole wheat refrigerated biscuits can add a little more fiber.

Bake, Don’t Fry: This recipe is already baked, which is a healthier alternative to deep-fried buffalo chicken.

Control the Dressing: Be mindful of how much dipping sauce you use, or opt for a lightened-up ranch dressing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

A: Absolutely! Chicken thighs would work wonderfully and add even more moisture and flavor to the filling. Just make sure they are cooked and shredded thoroughly.

Q: What if I don’t have refrigerated biscuits? Can I use puff pastry?

A: Yes, puff pastry would create a different, flakier texture, but it would also be delicious! Thaw the puff pastry, cut it into squares, fill, and seal. The baking time might need to be adjusted.

Q: My bombs are leaking filling. What went wrong?

A: This usually means the seams weren’t pinched tightly enough when you sealed the dough. Make sure to really press and seal those edges together. It could also happen if the dough was too thin or if the bombs were overfilled.

Q: How spicy are these?

A: The spice level largely depends on the buffalo sauce you choose and how much you add. If you prefer less heat, use a milder buffalo sauce or reduce the amount. For more heat, choose a spicier sauce or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the chicken mixture.

Q: Can I prepare the chicken filling the day before?

A: Yes, definitely! Preparing the chicken filling ahead of time is a great time-saver. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. This makes assembly quick and easy on baking day.

Q: How do I store leftovers?

A: Store any leftover Buffalo Chicken Bombs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Q: How do I reheat them?

A: Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also microwave them, but the bread might not be as crispy.

Conclusion

These Buffalo Chicken Bombs are more than just a recipe; they’re an experience. They combine the universally loved flavors of spicy buffalo chicken with the comforting embrace of warm, golden-brown bread, creating a snack or meal that is truly unforgettable. Whether you’re hosting a party, enjoying a casual evening with family, or simply craving something with a kick, these bombs are guaranteed to hit the spot.
So, gather your ingredients, follow these straightforward steps, and get ready to impress yourself and everyone lucky enough to try them. Don’t be surprised if they disappear faster than you can say “buffalo chicken!” Enjoy the process, savor the flavors, and prepare to make these a regular in your recipe rotation. Happy cooking, and may your kitchen be filled with the delightful aroma of these incredible Buffalo Chicken Bombs!