Description
Irresistible Melted Mozzarella & Ranch Chicken Bombs blend juicy chicken with creamy cheese in a crispy coating. Comfort meets gourmet in this crowd-pleasing dish you’ll crave again and again.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 mozzarella cheese sticks (or 1 cup shredded mozzarella)
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
Seasonings:
- 1 packet (1 ounce) ranch seasoning mix
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Coating:
- 1/2 cup plain or Italian-style breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons melted butter or olive oil
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the culinary workspace by heating the oven to 400F (200C). Coat a baking dish with non-stick spray or parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Transform chicken breasts into uniform thickness using a meat mallet. Infuse both surfaces with ranch seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper for maximum flavor penetration.
- Create a cheesy core by positioning a mozzarella stick or shredded cheese in the center of each chicken breast. Carefully envelop the cheese, rolling or folding the meat to completely conceal the melty center. Secure with toothpicks if necessary to maintain structural integrity.
- Craft a crispy exterior by combining breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese in a shallow container. Brush chicken with melted butter or olive oil, then generously coat in the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring complete coverage.
- Transfer prepared chicken bombs to the prepared baking dish. Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, monitoring until the exterior turns golden and crisp. The internal temperature should reach 165F for safe consumption. For an extra crunch, activate the broiler for a final 2-minute blast.
- Final presentation involves carefully removing toothpicks. Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley for a vibrant touch. Accompany with ranch dressing, creamy mashed potatoes, or a crisp garden salad to complete the meal.
Notes
- Customize the ranch seasoning by blending your own mix with dried herbs like dill, chives, and onion powder for a more personalized flavor profile.
- Prevent cheese leakage by freezing mozzarella sticks for 15 minutes before stuffing, which helps them maintain shape during baking.
- Opt for gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed pork rinds to make this recipe low-carb and keto-friendly, ensuring everyone can enjoy these delicious chicken bombs.
- Experiment with different cheese varieties like cheddar, pepper jack, or Swiss to create unique flavor combinations that suit your taste preferences.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer, Snacks
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 750 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
- Trans Fat: 0.3 g
- Carbohydrates: 12 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 38 g
- Cholesterol: 110 mg