In my kitchen, this recipe for Parmesan Cloud Chicken Bombs is a true favorite. They’re like little pockets of joy—tender, flavorful chicken with a creamy, cheesy sauce that’s simply irresistible. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or a casual gathering with friends, these chicken bombs add a fun twist to your typical meal. Plus, they can be on your table in an hour, making them a fantastic choice for a weeknight feast or a weekend indulgence!
What Makes This Recipe Special
These Parmesan Cloud Chicken Bombs bring so much to the table. Not only are they a crowd-pleaser, but they also blend protein and comfort food in one delightful dish. The recipe is beginner-friendly, bursting with cheesy goodness, and can be easily adapted for different tastes or dietary needs. It feels like a warm hug on a plate!
"These chicken bombs are a game changer! My kids devoured them, and I loved how easy they were to make." – Happy Home Cook
Time Breakdown
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 4
How This Recipe Comes Together
Making these Parmesan Cloud Chicken Bombs is a straightforward yet rewarding process. You’ll mix all the ingredients, shape them into delicious balls, and bake until they’re golden and cooked through. Then comes the heavenly cheese sauce that makes each bite pure bliss.
Ingredients
Gather These Items:
- 500 g (1 lb) ground chicken
- 1 egg
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (panko preferred)
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 Tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 Tbsp butter (for sauce)
- 2 Tbsp flour (for sauce)
- 1½ cups milk (or half-and-half for extra richness)
- ¾ cup Parmesan, grated (for sauce)
- ½ cup mozzarella, shredded (for sauce)
- Salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg (for sauce)
- Mashed potatoes or cauliflower purée (for serving)
- Fresh thyme or parsley (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F).
- In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, egg, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic, parsley, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined—don’t overwork it!
- Shape the mixture into medium-sized balls (about golf ball size) and place them on a parchment-lined baking tray. Bake for 20–25 minutes, until golden and cooked through.
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux.
- Gradually pour in milk while whisking constantly until smooth and slightly thickened. Add Parmesan, mozzarella, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Stir until creamy and velvety.
- Transfer the baked chicken bombs into a small casserole dish and pour the cheese sauce over the top. Broil for 3–5 minutes, until bubbling and slightly golden on top.
- Serve a generous portion of mashed potatoes on a plate. Place the chicken bombs on top and drizzle with extra sauce. Garnish with fresh herbs and a touch of olive oil or butter.
What to Serve It With
These Parmesan Cloud Chicken Bombs shine brightly on their own, but they pair wonderfully with a side of buttery mashed potatoes or a fluffy cauliflower purée. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing balance to the dish. And for drinks, a chilled glass of white wine or sparkling water complements the creamy flavors beautifully.
Keeping Leftovers Fresh
To store any leftovers, allow the chicken bombs to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a freezer-safe container for up to a month. When you’re ready to enjoy again, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven for the best texture.
Pro Chef Tips
- Don’t Overmix: Once you combine the ingredients, mix just until everything is incorporated. Overworking the meat can lead to tough chicken bombs.
- Consistent Size: Aim for similar-sized balls for even cooking. Scoop them out using an ice cream scoop for perfect portions!
- Customize the Cheese: Feel free to swap out mozzarella for your favorite gooey cheese like gouda or cheddar for a different flavor twist.
Creative Twists
- Herb Variations: Add fresh herbs like basil or thyme for an aromatic kick.
- Spicy Version: Incorporate some diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy twist.
- Cheese Lovers: Mix in crumbled feta or goat cheese for added tang.
| Serving Size | Calories | Protein | Carbs | Fat | Fiber | Sugar |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| per serving | 450 | 35 g | 24 g | 25 g | 2 g | 3 g |
Give these Parmesan Cloud Chicken Bombs a try, and watch the smiles spread around your table! They’re a delicious way to bring everyone together and savor the warmth of good food. Enjoy!
