Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Biscuit Bombs: The Ultimate Easy Game Day Appetizer Recipe

Get ready to elevate your snack game with these incredible Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Bombs! For many, the Super Bowl or any major game day isn’t just about the sport; it’s a celebration of delicious, shareable food. And if you’re like me, finding that perfect crowd-pleasing appetizer is half the fun. These savory bites combine the zesty, spicy kick of buffalo chicken dip with the comforting flakiness of a golden-brown biscuit, all made effortlessly in your air fryer. They’re quick, utterly delicious, and guaranteed to be a hit at any gathering.

What Exactly Are Buffalo Chicken Bombs?

Buffalo chicken biscuit bombs are a fantastic culinary creation, essentially a handheld explosion of flavor. Imagine a warm, buttery biscuit encasing a rich, creamy, and spicy buffalo chicken filling. They are a savory appetizer or snack, ingeniously combining the bold, tangy flavors of classic buffalo chicken dip with the soft, tender texture of biscuit dough, all conveniently sized for easy eating.

These “bombs” are crafted by carefully filling ready-to-bake biscuit dough with a decadent mixture. This filling typically consists of tender shredded chicken, generously coated in vibrant buffalo wing sauce, and then blended with a harmonious combination of softened cream cheese, savory cheddar cheese, and a hint of ranch seasoning for an irresistible creaminess and a touch of tang. Once filled, the biscuits are sealed into neat, round packages, then cooked until they achieve a beautiful golden-brown crispness. While they can be baked in a traditional oven, using an air fryer offers a faster cooking time and an equally delicious, perfectly browned result, leaving your oven free for other game-day essentials.

Beyond game day, these buffalo chicken bombs are incredibly versatile. They’re perfect for any party, casual get-together, or simply as a satisfying snack. To truly elevate the experience, serve them alongside classic dipping sauces like cool ranch dressing or a robust blue cheese dressing. The contrast of the creamy dip with the spicy, cheesy bomb creates an unforgettable taste sensation.

Simple Ingredients for Delicious Results

Crafting these amazing buffalo chicken bombs requires just a handful of easily accessible ingredients. The beauty lies in their simplicity, allowing you to whip up a batch quickly for any occasion. Here’s what you’ll need to gather:

• 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or diced, ensuring it’s well-drained if using canned chicken)
• ¼ cup buffalo wing sauce (your favorite brand will do, for that essential kick)
• 1 Tbsp ranch seasoning or dressing (adds a creamy, tangy depth)
• 4 ounces garlic and herb cream cheese, softened (for rich, savory creaminess)
• ½ cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (provides a delightful cheesiness)
• 8 count Grands buttermilk biscuits (the key to a flaky, golden exterior)

Step-by-Step Instructions to Craft Your Buffalo Chicken Bombs

Making these irresistible buffalo chicken bombs is a straightforward process. Follow these simple steps to create perfect, golden-brown appetizers every time:

1. In a large mixing bowl, begin by combining all the delicious filling ingredients. Add your shredded or diced chicken, buffalo sauce, ranch seasoning or dressing, softened garlic and herb cream cheese, and shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Stir everything together thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated and the mixture is consistently creamy and flavorful. This ensures every bite is packed with taste.

2. Next, prepare your biscuit dough. Open the can of biscuits and carefully separate each individual biscuit. Place them on a clean, lightly floured work surface. Using the palm of your hand or a rolling pin, flatten each biscuit until it forms a circular shape, approximately ¼ inch thick. Aim for an even thickness to ensure uniform cooking.

3. Now it’s time to fill! Take approximately two mounded tablespoons of the buffalo chicken mixture and place it directly in the center of each flattened biscuit. Don’t overfill, as this can make sealing difficult. A cookie scoop can be incredibly helpful for portioning out the filling evenly and efficiently. You might find you have a small amount of filling leftover depending on how generously you fill each biscuit.

4. Carefully bring the edges of the biscuit dough up and around the chicken mixture. Pinch the seams of the dough together very well at the top to completely enclose the filling. Form it into a smooth, tight ball, ensuring there are no gaps for the filling to escape during cooking. A secure seal is crucial for preventing leaks and maintaining the bomb’s shape.

5. Once all your biscuit bombs are assembled, carefully place them into your air fryer’s basket or rack. Arrange them in a single layer, seam side down, making sure there is enough air space between each bomb for even cooking and optimal browning. For easier cleanup, you can line the basket with perforated parchment paper, or simply spray the basket generously with nonstick cooking spray.

6. Set your air fryer to the ‘air fry’ setting and cook at 350°F (175°C) for approximately 10-12 minutes. Be sure to flip the bombs halfway through the cooking time to ensure they brown evenly on all sides. The goal is a beautiful golden-brown color and a thoroughly cooked dough. Keep in mind that cooking times can vary slightly between different air fryer models and even brands of biscuit dough, so it’s always wise to monitor closely and adjust as needed.
7. Allow the buffalo chicken bombs to cool slightly before serving (the filling will be very hot!). If desired, brush them with a little melted butter and a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or dill, add an extra drizzle of buffalo sauce or ranch, or a garnish of sliced green onions. Serve them warm and enjoy these incredibly flavorful, savory treats!

Alternate Oven Baking Directions

If you prefer to use a conventional oven or don’t have an air fryer, these buffalo chicken bombs can be just as delicious when baked. Here’s how to do it:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it reaches the correct temperature before baking.
2. Place the assembled biscuit bombs on a baking sheet that has been lined with parchment paper. Ensure there’s adequate space between each bomb to allow for even airflow and browning.
3. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the biscuits are a deep golden brown and cooked through to the center. Keep an eye on them towards the end of the baking time to prevent over-browning.

Top Tips for Making the Best Buffalo Chicken Bombs

Achieving perfectly crispy, golden buffalo chicken bombs with a creamy, flavorful center is easier than you think. Here are some essential tips to ensure your batch is absolutely outstanding:

• When using an air fryer, I personally find that I do not preheat my Ninja air fryer for this recipe, and a cooking time of 12 minutes works perfectly to achieve that ideal golden-brown crust and a thoroughly heated filling. However, air fryer models can vary significantly in their power and efficiency. Therefore, it’s always a good idea to start checking for doneness around the 10-minute mark and adjust the cooking time as needed, adding in small increments until they are just right.
• By far, the most crucial step for making successful biscuit bombs is effectively sealing the dough around the filling. Take your time with this part. Ensure the edges of the flattened biscuit dough are clean and dry, then carefully bring them up and pinch them together firmly and thoroughly. Once sealed, gently roll the dough into a tight ball. While a perfect seal will minimize any leaks, some minor cheese oozing is normal and adds to the delicious, rustic charm. A good seal prevents most of the filling from escaping, keeping the bombs intact and ensuring a moist interior.

Storage and Reheating Tips

These buffalo chicken bombs are so good, you might not have any leftovers! But if you do, here’s how to properly store and reheat them to maintain their deliciousness:

• To store leftover buffalo chicken bombs, allow them to cool completely to room temperature. Then, place them in an airtight container. They will keep fresh in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Proper storage ensures they remain moist and flavorful for your next snack attack.
• For the best results, reheat leftovers in an air fryer or a conventional oven at 350°F (175°C). In an oven, they typically need about 5–7 minutes, while in an air fryer, 4-5 minutes is usually sufficient. This method helps restore their crispy exterior and ensures the filling is heated through without becoming soggy. Avoid reheating in the microwave, as it tends to make the biscuit dough soft and rubbery, losing that desirable texture. If you are reheating bombs that were frozen (unbaked), increase the cooking time slightly, usually an additional 2-3 minutes, to ensure the filling reaches a safe and enjoyable temperature.

Final Thoughts on These Irresistible Bites

These air fryer buffalo chicken bombs are more than just an appetizer; they’re a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and a celebration of flavor and convenience. With their delicious, savory buffalo chicken dip-like filling encased in a golden, crispy biscuit, they offer the perfect bite for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a lively game day party, celebrating the Super Bowl, or simply craving a satisfying snack, these bombs deliver on taste and ease.

Serving them is a breeze – offer a generous side of cool ranch dressing or, for those who prefer an extra kick, a dash of hot sauce. The creamy dips provide a wonderful contrast to the spicy filling, making each bite even more enjoyable. Don’t forget to include some refreshing celery and carrot sticks alongside for a classic complementary crunch. These buffalo chicken biscuits are fantastic on their own, but truly shine as part of a larger party spread, adding a touch of exciting flavor that everyone will remember.

And for a delightful sweet treat to balance the savory, make sure to check out my Peach Pie Biscuit Bombs too! They offer a perfect, comforting dessert to round out any meal or gathering.