High protein chicken snacks like buffalo chicken bombs give home cooks a practical way to serve something warm, cheesy, and easy to share. These buffalo chicken bombs combine shredded chicken, cheese, and buffalo sauce wrapped in dough and baked until golden, creating a handheld option that works for game days, gatherings, or simple weekend meals.
When you are watching sports or hosting friends, finger foods often work better than plated dishes. Because each portion is wrapped and baked individually, serving becomes simple and cleanup stays manageable.
The texture is amazing, outside should be lightly crisp and golden, while the inside stays creamy with visible shredded chicken. Balanced heat from the buffalo sauce keeps the flavor steady without overpowering the cheese.
If you want a reliable appetizer that delivers protein and holds up well on a serving tray, this recipe fits into regular home cooking without adding complexity. For another crowd-friendly option with similar flavor, creamy buffalo chicken dip delivers the same bold heat in scoopable form.
Food Safety Advisory: Cook chicken to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before mixing into the filling. After baking, ensure the center of each bomb is fully heated. Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours and store in airtight containers.
For official U.S. safe handling guidance, refer to: USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service .
Time Breakdown
| Time Breakdown | |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 15 minutes |
| Cook Time | 20 minutes |
| Total Time | 35 minutes |
What Is Buffalo Chicken Bombs
Buffalo chicken bombs are small dough-wrapped portions filled with shredded chicken, cheese, and buffalo sauce. They bake in the oven until the outside browns and the inside melts together.
The inside should stay creamy but not runny. Meanwhile, the outer layer should feel firm and slightly crisp once cooled for a few minutes. Baking at steady heat ensures the dough cooks through without overbrowning.
This works as a high-protein snack because the chicken forms the core of each piece. Cheese adds structure and helps bind the filling, while buffalo sauce provides heat and acidity for balance. If you prefer something crispier alongside these bombs, homemade chicken wings make a natural game-day pairing.
Ingredients
This recipe balances protein, moisture, and structure. The filling should stay thick enough to shape easily without leaking during baking.
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 1/2 cup buffalo sauce
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup ranch dressing
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup crushed pork rinds or fine breadcrumbs (for structure)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 egg (helps bind and hold shape)
- 1 tablespoon melted butter (for brushing)
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (optional)
The crushed pork rinds or breadcrumbs help absorb moisture and allow the mixture to hold into balls without falling apart.
Revised Step-by-Step Instructions (No Dough)
1. Preheat and Prepare
Preheat the oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. The slightly higher temperature helps the outside firm up and brown.
2. Mix the Filling
In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, buffalo sauce, cream cheese, ranch dressing, mozzarella, cheddar, parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and black pepper.
Stir until evenly mixed. The mixture should look thick and cohesive.
Add the egg and crushed pork rinds or breadcrumbs. Stir again. The texture should now feel firm enough to scoop and shape. If it feels too soft, add 1–2 tablespoons more crushed crumbs.
3. Shape the Bombs
Using a spoon or small scoop, portion the mixture into equal amounts. Roll each portion between your hands to form tight balls.
Press gently while rolling so they hold together. If cracks form, smooth them lightly with your fingers.
Place the balls evenly spaced on the baking sheet.
4. Brush and Bake
Lightly brush each ball with melted butter. This helps browning and prevents dryness.
Bake for 18–22 minutes. The outside should look lightly golden and feel firm to the touch. The cheese inside should be fully melted but not leaking excessively.
5. Rest Before Serving
Let the bombs rest for 5 minutes after baking. This allows the cheese to set slightly and makes them easier to handle.
Serve warm.
Nutrition Information
| Nutrition Information (Approximate, Per Piece) | |
|---|---|
| Calories | 210 |
| Protein | 16g |
| Carbohydrates | 2g |
| Fat | 14g |
| Fiber | 0g |
| Sodium | 540mg |
Nutrition Disclaimer: Nutrition information is provided as an estimate only and can vary based on ingredient brands, portion size, substitutions, and preparation methods.
Recipe Overview
Buffalo chicken bombs work because the filling stays thick and controlled. Cream cheese stabilizes moisture, while shredded cheese helps prevent separation during baking.
The dough creates a barrier that keeps the filling contained. Therefore, sealing carefully prevents leaks. Baking at moderate heat allows the inside to warm fully before the outside overbrowns.
Flavor balance matters. Buffalo sauce provides acidity and spice. Cheese softens the heat. Chicken supplies structure and protein.
Because everything bakes on one sheet pan, cleanup remains simple.
Recipe At a Glance
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Servings | 12 bombs |
| Skill Level | Beginner |
| Flavor Profile | Savory, cheesy, mildly spicy |
| Cooking Method | Oven-baked |
| Make-Ahead Friendly | Yes, shape and chill, then bake |
Helpful Tips and Variations
- Use rotisserie chicken to save time.
- If you want extra heat, increase buffalo sauce slightly but reduce by 1–2 tablespoons cream cheese to keep balance.
- For added protein, mix in 1–2 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt.
- To prevent leaks, double pinch seams before baking.
If you enjoy protein-focused chicken recipes, high protein garlic parmesan chicken keeps the same structure with a different flavor direction.
Storage and Make-Ahead Notes
Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in a 325°F oven for 8–10 minutes to maintain crisp texture.
You can assemble the bombs and refrigerate unbaked for up to 12 hours. Bake directly from cold, adding 2–3 extra minutes.
Freezing after baking works well. Reheat from frozen in a 350°F oven until heated through. Leftover chicken can also be used in air fryer chicken tenders for another easy snack-style option.
Final Thoughts
Buffalo chicken bombs provide a structured, high-protein option that fits gatherings and casual meals. With simple ingredients and steady baking, they deliver balanced flavor and manageable prep for regular home cooking. Browse more party-ready ideas in the snacks category for additional game-day recipes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Use the egg and crushed pork rinds or fine breadcrumbs as the binder. The mixture should feel thick enough to roll. If it feels soft, mix in 1–2 more tablespoons of crumbs before shaping.
Yes. Shape the bombs, place them on a lined tray, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake when ready. If baking from cold, add 2–3 minutes.
Use fine breadcrumbs, panko crushed smaller, or almond flour. Breadcrumbs hold moisture well. Almond flour works, but the texture will be softer.
The heat level depends on your buffalo sauce. For milder bombs, reduce buffalo sauce slightly and add a little more cream cheese. For more heat, add extra sauce and keep the bake time the same.
Reheat in a 325°F oven for about 8–10 minutes. This warms them through while keeping the outside more set than microwaving. If microwaving, use short bursts to avoid softening.