Savory Buffalo Chicken Bombs with a Ranch Twist

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Author: Nancy Lin
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Introduction

Buffalo Chicken Bombs are a perfect fusion of flavors and textures that make for delightful appetizers or party snacks. These bite-sized wonders feature a crispy outer layer, oozing with a spicy Buffalo chicken filling, and a creamy ranch-stuffed center that brings balance to the heat. They're sure to impress friends and family at your next gathering.

Creating these Bombs at home allows you to customize the spice level and cheese blend, making them versatile enough for any palate. As you bite through the golden crust, prepare to delight in the explosion of seasoned chicken and that signature ranch taste. Let’s embark on this flavorful journey to bring these mouthwatering treats to life.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground chicken
    Ground chicken provides a leaner option compared to traditional beef. It absorbs flavors well and creates a tender filling for the bombs, making every bite juicy and satisfying.
  • 1/2 cup Buffalo wing sauce
    This sauce is the star ingredient that gives the bombs their signature kick. With its blend of hot sauce, vinegar, and spices, it infuses the chicken with bold flavors that are quintessentially Buffalo.
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
    Cheese adds richness and creaminess to the filling, enhancing the overall flavor profile. It also helps bind the ingredients together, ensuring a cohesive texture.
  • 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
    Cream cheese adds a rich, smooth texture that balances the heat from the Buffalo sauce. It also contributes to the ranch-stuffed center, making it wonderfully creamy.
  • 1/4 cup ranch dressing
    Ranch dressing offers a cool contrast to the spicy filling, making each bite refreshing. It adds moisture and flavor, creating a delightful offset to the heat.
  • 1 package refrigerated crescent roll dough
    The crescent roll dough serves as the outer layer, providing a flaky, golden crust that encases the flavorful filling. It's easy to use and bakes beautifully.
  • Cooking spray or oil for greasing
    Using cooking spray or oil helps to achieve a crispy exterior for the Bombs. It prevents sticking and ensures that they cook evenly in the oven.

Directions & Preparation

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

Preheating the oven ensures that the Buffalo Chicken Bombs start baking immediately when placed inside. This helps achieve that desired crispiness and even cooking all around.

Step 2: In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, Buffalo wing sauce, shredded cheese, cream cheese, and ranch dressing.

Mixing these ingredients in a bowl allows the chicken to absorb the flavors of the sauces and cheeses. This step is crucial for ensuring every bite is flavorful. Use your hands or a spatula for effective mixing.

Step 3: Unroll the crescent roll dough and separate the triangles along the perforated lines.

Separating the dough into triangles creates an individual wrapper for each Bomb. The triangle shape is perfect for enclosing the filling in a neat, self-contained manner.

Step 4: Place a generous spoonful of the chicken mixture at the wide end of each triangle.

Adding the filling at the wide end ensures that it is easier to roll up the dough without overflow. Use about 1-2 tablespoons of filling, making sure not to overstuff to avoid spillage during baking.

Step 5: Roll up the triangle starting from the wide end, tucking in the filling as you go, and place seam side down on a baking sheet.

Tightly rolling the dough around the filling helps maintain its shape and ensures that the mixture stays inside while baking. Placing the seam side down prevents them from unraveling.

Step 6: Lightly spray or brush the tops of the Bombs with cooking spray or oil.

This step is important for achieving a beautiful golden color and crispy texture on the outside. The oil helps the dough brown nicely in the oven.

Step 7: Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.

Baking until golden allows the dough to puff up and develop a crunchy texture while ensuring the filling is heated thoroughly. Keep an eye on the Bombs to prevent over-browning.

Step 8: Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.

Letting them cool slightly before serving helps the filling set, making it less likely to ooze out when you take a bite. It also prevents burns from hot filling!

Buffalo Chicken Bombs with Ranch-Stuffed Center step photo

A Flavor-Packed Filling

The combination of spicy Buffalo sauce and creamy ranch dressing creates an enticing flavor profile for these bombs. The ground chicken absorbs the sauce's heat while the ranch dressing cools it down, creating a harmonious blend of flavors. This ingredient balance keeps each bite exciting, satisfying both heat lovers and those who prefer milder tastes.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Buffalo Chicken Bombs make for versatile snacks, perfect for game days, parties, or movie nights. Their bite-sized nature allows for easy sharing and snacking. The appealing golden crust and bubbling filling will draw guests in, making them an instant crowd favorite. Serve them with extra ranch for dipping and watch as they disappear quickly from the platter.

Customizing Your Buffalo Bombs

One of the great things about these bombs is how easily they can be customized. Whether you want a spicier filling, additional veggies, or different cheeses, the options are endless. You can experiment by adding jalapeños for extra heat or swapping in blue cheese for a classic Buffalo pairing. Tailoring the recipe to your taste can lead to exciting new variations!

FAQs

What if my filling is too thick?

If your filling feels too thick, consider adding a tablespoon or two of ranch dressing or Buffalo sauce to loosen it up. This should help create a smoother mix that's easier to scoop.

Can I use shredded rotisserie chicken instead?

Absolutely! Using cooked rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver. Just shred it finely and combine it with the sauces and cheeses. It's a convenient way to reduce prep time while still enjoying delicious flavors.

What if I find the filling bland?

If you find the filling lacking in flavor, try adding more Buffalo sauce or seasoning it with garlic powder, onion powder, or salt to enhance the taste. Mixing in some diced green onions can also add a fresh kick.

Are these good for meal prep?

Definitely! You can prepare and assemble the Bombs ahead of time, then refrigerate them until you're ready to bake. This makes them perfect for stress-free entertaining.

Can I use whole wheat crescent rolls instead?

Yes, whole wheat crescent rolls are a great alternative if you want a healthier option. They will offer a slightly nuttier flavor and denser texture.

What should I do if they come out overcooked?

If the bombs are overcooked, they may be dry. To avoid this, keep an eye on them while baking and check for doneness a few minutes early. For the next batch, consider adjusting the time down slightly.

Conclusion

Buffalo Chicken Bombs with ranch-stuffed centers offer a mouthwatering experience that brings warmth and comfort in every bite. Their crispy exterior and flavorful filling create a delightful dish that satisfies both casual snacking and sharing among friends.

With just a few ingredients and simple steps, these bombs are sure to become a staple recipe in your culinary repertoire. Whether you enjoy them as appetizers or a fun weeknight meal, they're bound to be a hit at the dinner table.

Recipe Card

Savory Buffalo Chicken Bombs with a Ranch Twist

Buffalo Chicken Bombs with Ranch-Stuffed Center made approachable with clear cues, pantry staples, and flexible swaps.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground chicken
  • 1/2 cup Buffalo wing sauce
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheese cheddar or mozzarella
  • 1/4 cup cream cheese softened
  • 1/4 cup ranch dressing
  • 1 package refrigerated crescent roll dough
  • Cooking spray or oil for greasing

Instructions

  • Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, Buffalo wing sauce, shredded cheese, cream cheese, and ranch dressing.
  • Unroll the crescent roll dough and separate the triangles along the perforated lines.
  • Place a generous spoonful of the chicken mixture at the wide end of each triangle.
  • Roll up the triangle starting from the wide end, tucking in the filling as you go, and place seam side down on a baking sheet.
  • Lightly spray or brush the tops of the Bombs with cooking spray or oil.
  • Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
  • Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

Additional serving suggestions: pair with a crisp salad, garlic bread, or roasted seasonal vegetables for balance.

For make-ahead, prep components separately and assemble just before heating to preserve texture.

Taste and adjust with acid (lemon/vinegar) and salt right at the end to wake up flavors.

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Cooking Made Easy

Are you new to this website? This free email series is a work. You’ll learn some handy baking science and quickly gain the knowledge to become a better cooker.