Next, season your mixture with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything thoroughly until the chicken pieces are evenly coated in that creamy, cheesy goodness. Now, it’s time to prepare for the coating. Set up a dredging station with three bowls: one for the flour, one for the beaten egg, and one for the breadcrumbs. This is a great technique to keep your hands from turning into a sticky mess!
Now, take a small scoop of your chicken mixture and form it into a ball. Dip it first into the flour, then into the egg, and finally cover it with breadcrumbs. Repeat this until all your chicken bombs are coated. I love the crunchiness of the breadcrumbs once they’re fried. Next, heat oil in your frying pan to about 350°F. Carefully drop in your chicken bombs, making sure not to crowd the pan, and let them fry until golden brown—about 5-7 minutes. The aroma of frying cheese and chicken will fill your kitchen, and trust me, it smells delightful!
Finally, once they are done, place your melted mozzarella and ranch chicken bombs on a paper towel-lined baking sheet to absorb any excess oil. Let them cool for a minute before diving in, as the cheese will be scorching hot. Plus, this gives you just enough time to prepare your dipping sauces! Just thinking about that delicious gooeyness makes my mouth water!
Pro Tips for Best Results
I tested this recipe three ways: frying at different temperatures. I found that frying at a medium heat ensures perfectly cooked chicken on the inside without burning the outside. It’s all about getting that golden color while keeping the insides juicy! If you notice the breadcrumbs getting too dark before the chicken is done, simply lower the heat.
Also, feel free to use different types of cheese if you want to mix it up. While I love mozzarella, I’ve tried these with pepper jack for a spicy twist or even cheddar for a more robust flavor. Varieties can change the whole experience, and I’ve found that experimenting can lead to fantastic discoveries!
Lastly, when forming the balls, don’t be shy with the filling! Adding a generous amount means more cheesy goodness in every bite, and who doesn’t want that? Just be careful when frying; they can be a little tricky to manage if they’re too big!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake I’ve made in the past is using too cold ingredients. You want your chicken mixture to be at room temperature before frying. This helps it cook evenly, ensuring that the inside is fully done before the outside gets too crispy. A little prep ahead really makes a difference! (See the next page below to continue…)