IRRESISTIBLE CHEESY DYNAMITE CHICKEN BUNS

Imagine biting into a warm, fluffy bun, bursting with a savory, slightly spicy chicken filling, and oozing with melted cheese – that’s exactly what you get with these Cheesy Dynamite Chicken Buns! This recipe takes the classic chicken and cheese combo to a whole new level of deliciousness with a fiery kick that’ll leave you craving more, and I promise, they’re easier to make than you think!

Gather Your Goodies: The Ingredients

For the Chicken Filling:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup buffalo wing sauce (adjust to your spice preference)
• 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 tablespoons chopped green onions
• 1 tablespoon chopped celery
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Buns:

• 6-8 hamburger buns or brioche buns
• 4 tablespoons butter, melted
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Optional: Everything bagel seasoning or sesame seeds for topping

Let’s Get Cooking: Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Dynamite Chicken Filling:

1. Shred the Chicken: If you haven’t already, cook your chicken breasts using your favorite method – baking, boiling, or even using a rotisserie chicken. Once cooked, shred the chicken using two forks or a stand mixer for super-quick shredding.
2. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, buffalo wing sauce, cheddar cheese, green onions, celery, garlic powder, and onion powder.
3. Season to Perfection: Season the mixture with salt and pepper to your liking. Don’t be afraid to taste and adjust the seasonings! This is your chance to make it truly dynamite. If you like it spicier, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce.
4. Mix Well: Thoroughly mix all the ingredients until everything is well combined and creamy. Make sure the cream cheese is fully incorporated for a smooth texture.

Assembling the Cheesy Dynamite Chicken Buns:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Prepare the Buns: Slice the hamburger buns in half horizontally.
3. Butter the Buns: Brush the cut sides of the buns with melted butter. This will help them get nice and golden brown in the oven.
4. Load ’em Up: Generously spread the chicken filling onto the bottom halves of the buns. Don’t be shy! You want each bite to be packed with flavor.
5. Add the Cheese: Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded mozzarella cheese over the chicken filling. Then, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese. The combination of cheeses creates a gooey, flavorful topping.
6. Top it Off (Optional): For extra flavor and visual appeal, sprinkle the buns with everything bagel seasoning or sesame seeds.
7. Bake to Perfection: Place the assembled buns on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden brown. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning!
8. Serve and Enjoy: Remove the buns from the oven and let them cool for a minute or two before serving. These are best enjoyed warm!

Spice It Up: Flavor Variations and Expert Tips

Adjusting the Heat:

The beauty of this recipe is its versatility. If you’re not a fan of spicy food, reduce the amount of buffalo wing sauce or use a milder version. You can also substitute it with ranch dressing or BBQ sauce for a completely different flavor profile. Alternatively, for those who love the heat, adding some diced jalapenos to the chicken mixture will crank up the spice level!

Cheesy Alternatives:

Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese! Pepper jack cheese will add an extra kick, while provolone cheese will provide a milder, meltier option. A blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack also works wonders.

Bun Variations:

While hamburger buns are a classic choice, brioche buns offer a richer, more buttery flavor. You can also use slider buns for a smaller, appetizer-friendly version. If you’re feeling adventurous, try using pretzel buns for a unique twist.

Make-Ahead Magic:

Want to get ahead of the game? You can prepare the chicken filling up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake the buns, simply assemble them and pop them in the oven. This is a great option for busy weeknights or when you’re entertaining guests.

Freezing for Later:

These buns also freeze well! Assemble the buns as directed, but don’t bake them. Wrap each bun individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed.

Serving Suggestions: Making it a Meal

Side Dish Sensations:

These Cheesy Dynamite Chicken Buns are delicious on their own, but they also pair well with a variety of side dishes. A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette dressing is a refreshing complement. Coleslaw is another classic choice that adds a creamy, tangy contrast to the spicy chicken. For a heartier meal, serve them with some Southern Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole.

Dipping Delights:

Elevate your bun-eating experience with a delicious dipping sauce! Ranch dressing, blue cheese dressing, or even a spicy mayo are all great options. You can also create a simple dipping sauce by mixing mayonnaise with a little bit of buffalo wing sauce and a pinch of garlic powder.

Perfect for Any Occasion:

Whether you’re hosting a game day party, planning a casual lunch, or simply craving a comforting meal, these Cheesy Dynamite Chicken Buns are sure to be a hit. They’re also a great way to use up leftover cooked chicken. If you have some leftover ingredients, you might want to try making some Cheesy Garlic Chicken Wraps, too!

Troubleshooting Tips and Tricks

Bun Burning Blues:

If you notice that the buns are browning too quickly, tent them loosely with aluminum foil to prevent them from burning. This will allow the cheese to melt and the filling to heat through without over-browning the bread.

Filling Leakage Frustration:

To prevent the filling from leaking out of the buns, make sure to use softened cream cheese and mix the ingredients thoroughly. This will help create a thicker, more cohesive filling. Also, avoid overfilling the buns.

Cheese-Melting Mishaps:

If the cheese isn’t melting properly, try broiling the buns for a minute or two at the end of the baking time. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning! For a similar taste profile, you might want to try Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo.

Why You’ll Absolutely Love These Buns!

Seriously, these Cheesy Dynamite Chicken Buns are more than just a recipe; they’re an experience. The combination of savory chicken, creamy cheese, and spicy buffalo sauce is simply irresistible. Plus, they’re so easy to make and customize, you can easily adapt them to your own taste preferences. I know you’ll also enjoy how these buns are incredibly versatile. They’re perfect as a snack, appetizer, or even a light meal. And if you’re looking for another great recipe, I highly recommend trying the Parmesan Garlic Chicken Pasta, it’s another sure winner!

So, go ahead and give this recipe a try. I’m confident that you and your family will love these Cheesy Dynamite Chicken Buns as much as I do. Happy cooking!