Melted Mozzarella & Ranch Chicken Bombs Recipe

Introduction

Melted Mozzarella & Ranch Chicken Bombs are a delicious, bite-sized treat perfect for any occasion. These savory little bites combine tender ground chicken with flavorful ranch seasoning and gooey mozzarella for a satisfying snack or appetizer.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground chicken
• 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 cup shredded or sliced mozzarella cheese
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 2 tbsp chopped parsley (fresh or dried)
• Olive oil or cooking spray

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, ranch seasoning mix, egg, breadcrumbs, and garlic powder. Mix gently until just combined to keep the texture tender.
3. Step 3: Shape the mixture into golf ball-sized pieces and place them evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Step 4: Lightly spray or brush each ball with olive oil to help them brown beautifully.
5. Step 5: Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the outsides are golden.
6. Step 6: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and place a portion of mozzarella cheese on top of each chicken ball. Switch your oven to the broil setting and broil for 1–2 minutes until the cheese melts and becomes bubbly.
7. Step 7: Garnish the chicken bombs with chopped parsley and serve while warm for the best flavor.

Tips & Variations

• Use fresh mozzarella slices for a creamier melt or shredded mozzarella for quicker melting.
• Try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the mixture if you like a little heat.
• For a gluten-free option, substitute breadcrumbs with crushed gluten-free crackers or almond flour.
• Serve with ranch or marinara dipping sauce for extra flavor.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through. Avoid overheating to keep the chicken moist and the cheese gooey.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of cheese instead of mozzarella?

Yes, you can substitute mozzarella with cheddar, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack for different flavors. Make sure the cheese melts well for the best results.

Can I prepare the chicken bombs ahead of time?

You can shape the chicken mixture into balls and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes them perfect for preparing in advance for parties or busy evenings.

Melted Mozzarella & Ranch Chicken Bombs Recipe

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★★★★★

4.4 from 56 reviews

These Melted Mozzarella & Ranch Chicken Bombs are flavorful, juicy chicken meatballs infused with ranch seasoning, stuffed with melty mozzarella cheese, baked to golden perfection, and finished under the broiler for a cheesy topping. They make a delicious appetizer or main dish that’s easy to prepare and sure to impress.

• Author: Ruby
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 22 minutes
• Total Time: 37 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 12 chicken bombs 1x
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Chicken Mixture

• 1 lb ground chicken
• 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 tsp garlic powder

Topping and Garnish

• 1 cup shredded or sliced mozzarella cheese
• 2 tbsp chopped parsley (fresh or dried)
• Olive oil or cooking spray

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and for easy cleanup.
2. Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, ranch seasoning mix, egg, breadcrumbs, and garlic powder. Mix gently until just combined, being careful not to overwork the mixture to keep the meatballs tender.
3. Form Bombs: Shape the mixture into golf ball-sized balls, about 1.5 inches in diameter, and place them evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Add Oil: Lightly spray the bombs with cooking spray or brush them with olive oil to help with browning and to keep them moist while baking.
5. Bake: Bake the chicken bombs in the preheated oven for 18 to 22 minutes, or until they are fully cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F) and golden brown on the outside.
6. Top with Cheese and Broil: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and top each bomb with shredded or sliced mozzarella cheese. Place under the broiler for 1 to 2 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden. Watch carefully to avoid burning.
7. Garnish and Serve: Finally, sprinkle chopped fresh or dried parsley over the bombs for a fresh touch and serve them warm as a tasty appetizer or party snack.

Notes

• For an extra crispy exterior, you can use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs.
• Feel free to substitute the ranch seasoning with your favorite seasoning blends or make your own homemade ranch mix.
• Ensure the chicken bombs are cooked through by using a meat thermometer to check for the safe internal temperature of 165°F.
• You can prepare the bombs ahead of time and refrigerate until ready to bake.
• If you prefer a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the chicken mixture.

Keywords: chicken bombs, ranch chicken meatballs, mozzarella chicken bites, baked chicken appetizer, party snacks, easy chicken recipe