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- 1 lb ground chicken - 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese - 1/2 cup cream cheese The main ingredients create a rich and creamy filling. Ground chicken gives a lean protein base. Shredded mozzarella adds stretch and gooeyness. Cream cheese enhances the creamy texture. - 1 packet ranch dressing mix - 1 cup cooked, crumbled bacon (optional) - 1 cup all-purpose flour Ranch dressing mix brings a tangy and herby flavor. Adding cooked bacon gives a smoky crunch. All-purpose flour helps with coating and gives a nice crust. - 2 eggs, beaten - 2 cups Italian-style breadcrumbs - Olive oil spray Beaten eggs help the breadcrumbs stick. Italian-style breadcrumbs add flavor and crunch. A light spray of olive oil helps them crisp up as they bake. These ingredients make Mozzarella Ranch Chicken Bombs a tasty comfort food delight. They combine creamy, crunchy, and savory flavors in every bite. {{ingredient_image_1}} - Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. - In a large bowl, mix 1 pound of ground chicken, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella, 1/2 cup of softened cream cheese, and 1 packet of ranch dressing mix. Make sure everything blends well. - Take a small scoop of the chicken mixture, about the size of a golf ball. Roll it into a ball shape. Repeat until all the mixture is used. - Set up your breading station. In one bowl, put 1 cup of all-purpose flour. In a second bowl, add 2 beaten eggs. In a third bowl, place 2 cups of Italian-style breadcrumbs. - Roll each chicken ball in the flour. Shake off any extra flour. Next, dip it in the beaten eggs, and then coat it in the breadcrumbs. Ensure each ball is fully covered. - Place the coated chicken bombs on your prepared baking sheet. Lightly spray them with olive oil to help them crisp during baking. - Bake the chicken bombs for 20-25 minutes. They should turn golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). - Ensuring the perfect bake: Bake your Mozzarella Ranch Chicken Bombs at 375°F (190°C). This heat ensures they cook through and become golden brown. Keep an eye on them for 20-25 minutes. - How to avoid dryness: To keep the bombs juicy, don’t overbake them. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). - Serving suggestions: Serve these chicken bombs on a large platter. Add a small bowl of ranch dressing for dipping. This makes it fun for everyone. - Garnishing ideas: Sprinkle extra chopped chives over the top before serving. This adds color and freshness to the dish. - Best dipping sauces to pair: Ranch dressing works great. You can also try BBQ sauce or a spicy aioli for a kick. - Seasoning adjustments: Feel free to add extra spices to the chicken mix. Garlic powder, onion powder, or paprika can boost the flavor. Adjust to your taste for a unique twist. Pro Tips Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh chicken and quality cheeses will enhance the flavor and texture of your chicken bombs. Experiment with Cheese: Feel free to mix different cheeses like cheddar or pepper jack for a unique twist on the flavor. Chill Before Baking: Chilling the formed chicken bombs in the fridge for about 30 minutes helps them hold their shape during baking. Customize the Coating: Try adding herbs or spices to the breadcrumb mixture for an extra layer of flavor. {{image_2}} You can easily swap ingredients in this recipe. If you want a different taste, try using different cheeses. Cheddar or pepper jack can add a nice kick. You can also go for a mix of cheeses for extra flavor. For protein, consider using ground turkey or lean beef. Both options will work well. They will also keep the dish juicy and tasty. If you prefer a vegetarian option, try using mashed chickpeas or a meat substitute. You have options for cooking these chicken bombs. Air frying is a great method for a crispier texture. Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and cook for about 12-15 minutes. Check them halfway to ensure even browning. Baking is the classic way to cook these bombs. If you choose to bake, follow the recipe steps provided. You can also grill them for a smoky flavor. Use skewers to hold them together if you grill. Cook over medium heat for about 10-15 minutes, flipping often. If you need gluten-free options, use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs. Many brands offer good substitutes that taste great. You can also use crushed cornflakes for the breading. For low-carb adaptations, skip the breadcrumbs and flour. Instead, use crushed pork rinds or almond flour. Both will give a nice crunch while keeping the carbs low. These swaps will help you enjoy this dish while sticking to your diet. To keep your Mozzarella Ranch Chicken Bombs fresh, store them in the fridge. Place them in an airtight container. They stay good for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to keep them longer, freezing is a great option. When you want to enjoy your leftovers, the oven is the best way to reheat. Set the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken bombs on a baking sheet. Heat for about 10 to 15 minutes. This keeps them crispy. If you use a microwave, be careful. Heat them for 30 seconds at a time. Check often so they don’t get soggy. You can freeze these chicken bombs before or after cooking. To freeze before cooking, shape the balls and place them on a baking sheet. Freeze until solid, then move them to a freezer bag. For after cooking, let them cool completely first. Then, store them in an airtight container. When you’re ready to eat, thaw them in the fridge overnight. Cook or reheat as needed. Can I make these ahead of time? Yes, you can make Mozzarella Ranch Chicken Bombs ahead of time. Prepare and shape the chicken balls. Place them on a tray and cover with plastic wrap. Store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When ready, just bake them straight from the fridge. This saves time on busy days. How do I know when they are fully cooked? To check if they are done, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). If you don't have a thermometer, look for a golden brown color. The outside should be crisp, and the inside should be hot. Can I use turkey instead of chicken? Yes, you can use ground turkey. It works well as a substitute for ground chicken. Turkey has a lighter taste and is a bit leaner. Just be careful not to overcook it, as turkey can dry out faster. What if I’m out of ranch dressing mix? If you don’t have ranch dressing mix, you can make your own. Combine 1 tablespoon of dried dill, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, and 1 teaspoon of onion powder. Add some salt and pepper to taste. This should give you a similar flavor. What sides go well with Mozzarella Ranch Chicken Bombs? These chicken bombs pair nicely with fresh salads. Try a simple green salad or coleslaw. You can also serve them with veggie sticks and ranch dip for a fun twist. Are they suitable for meal prep? Yes, they are great for meal prep. You can store the cooked chicken bombs in airtight containers. They last in the fridge for about 3-4 days. Just reheat them in the oven to keep them crispy. These Mozzarella Ranch Chicken Bombs are simple to make and tasty to eat. We covered the main ingredients, prep steps, cooking methods, and storage tips. You can adjust the recipe to fit your taste or dietary needs. With easy swaps and cooking methods, there's something for everyone. Enjoy your tasty creation, whether fresh, reheated, or frozen! Follow these tips, and your chicken bombs will impress anyone who tries them.

Mozzarella Ranch Chicken Bombs

Delicious chicken balls filled with mozzarella and ranch flavors, perfect for a snack or appetizer.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Course Appetizer
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb ground chicken
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
  • 1 packet ranch dressing mix
  • 1 cup cooked, crumbled bacon (optional, as a garnish)
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 eggs beaten
  • 2 cups Italian-style breadcrumbs
  • 1 spray olive oil (for cooking)
  • to taste none fresh chives, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  • In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, shredded mozzarella, cream cheese, and ranch dressing mix. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
  • Take a small amount of the chicken mixture (about the size of a golf ball) and shape it into a ball. Repeat until all the mixture is used.
  • Set up a breading station: Place the flour in one bowl, the beaten eggs in another, and the Italian-style breadcrumbs in a third bowl.
  • Roll each chicken ball in the flour, shaking off the excess, then dip it into the beaten eggs, and finally coat it in the breadcrumbs. Ensure each ball is well-coated.
  • Place the coated chicken bombs on the prepared baking sheet, then spray lightly with olive oil to help them crisp up while baking.
  • Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 165°F / 74°C).
  • If desired, sprinkle the cooked chicken bombs with crumbled bacon for added flavor and garnish with freshly chopped chives before serving.

Notes

Serve with ranch dressing for dipping and garnish with chives.
Keyword appetizer, chicken, mozzarella, ranch