If you’re collecting Buffalo appetizer recipes or need appetizer recipes with chicken that everyone loves, these Buffalo Chicken Poppers are the answer. They’re spicy, cheesy, and loaded with flavor, making them one of the best appetizer recipes for game day, gatherings, or cozy recipes for winter.
They also work as Superbowl party food ideas, fancy party food, and even “late-night munchies food” when you want something fun and satisfying.
Why You’ll Love These Buffalo Chicken Poppers
- Easy, quick, and super addictive
- Perfect best party foods for crowds
- Great as snacks with chicken or starter
- Optional bacon makes it next level (hello dinners with bacon vibes)
- Works baked or air-fried
Ingredients (Makes 18–24 poppers)
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie works great)
- 1/2 cup Buffalo sauce (adjust to taste)
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella (or mozzarella chunks for extra pull)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar (optional but delicious)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
For the Wrap / Crunch (Choose one)
Option A: Bacon Wrapped (Best for parties)
- 10–12 bacon slices (cut in half)
Option B: Breadcrumb Crunch
- 1 cup breadcrumbs or panko
- 2 tbsp melted butter
For Serving (Buffalo Chicken Sides)
- Ranch or blue cheese dip
- Celery + carrot sticks
Step-by-Step: How to Make Buffalo Chicken Poppers
Step 1: Preheat oven
- Oven: 200°C / 400°F
Line a baking tray with parchment paper or foil.
Step 2: Make the filling
In a bowl mix:
- shredded chicken
- buffalo sauce
- cream cheese
- mozzarella (and cheddar if using)
- garlic powder + onion powder
Mix until creamy and shapeable.
Step 3: Shape the poppers
Scoop 1–1.5 tbsp mixture and roll into small balls or “mini logs”.
Tip: If mixture feels soft, refrigerate 10–15 minutes.
Cooking Method 1: Bacon-Wrapped Buffalo Chicken Poppers (Most Viral)
Step 4A: Wrap in bacon
Wrap each popper with half slice bacon and secure with toothpick.
Step 5A: Bake
Bake 18–25 minutes until bacon is crispy and poppers are hot.
Optional: Broil 1–2 minutes at the end for extra crisp.
Cooking Method 2: Crunchy Breadcrumb Poppers (No bacon)
Step 4B: Coat
Roll poppers in breadcrumbs/panko. Drizzle melted butter on top.
Step 5B: Bake
Bake 12–15 minutes until golden and melty.
Air Fryer Option (Fastest)
Air fry at 190°C / 375°F for:
- Bacon wrapped: 10–14 minutes
- Breadcrumb: 8–10 minutes
Flip halfway for even crisping.
Serving Ideas (Buffalo Chicken Sides)
These are perfect food appetizers with simple sides:
- Ranch or blue cheese dip
- Celery sticks + carrot sticks
- Pickles or coleslaw for crunch
This combo makes them ideal for best party foods and game day spreads.
Make-Ahead + Storage
Make Ahead
You can assemble poppers up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerate.
Store
Keep leftovers in fridge for 3–4 days.
Reheat (Best Way)
- Air fryer: 190°C / 375°F for 3–5 minutes
- Oven: 180°C / 350°F for 8–10 minutes
FAQs
Can I make them less spicy?
Yes. Use less Buffalo sauce and add more cream cheese.
What chicken works best?
Rotisserie chicken is quickest, but any cooked shredded chicken works.
Are these “fancy party food”?
Absolutely. Bacon-wrapped + mozzarella pull = party upgrade.
Final Thoughts
If you need Buffalo chicken appetizer recipes that are easy, fun, and guaranteed to impress, these Buffalo Chicken Poppers are a must. Save this recipe for your next gathering, winter snack night, or Superbowl party food ideas list
