Name: Cheesy Dynamite Chicken Buns
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Fusion
Ingredients: 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breast, cooked and shredded; 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened; 2 tablespoons sriracha sauce; 1 tablespoon hot sauce (adjust to taste); 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; 1/4 teaspoon paprika; 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/4 cup mozzarella cheese; 8-10 soft dinner rolls or slider buns; 1 tablespoon butter, melted; Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you love the combination of spicy and cheesy flavors, these Cheesy Dynamite Chicken Buns are just what you need. The rich and creamy chicken filling, paired with a delightful spice kick, is perfectly complemented by the softness of the buns. It’s a fun and delicious way to enjoy a comforting dish with a twist. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just as a tasty treat, these buns are easy to make and so satisfying to eat.

Cheesy Dynamite Chicken Buns

Ingredients

1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breast, cooked and shredded
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
2 tablespoons sriracha sauce
1 tablespoon hot sauce (adjust to taste)
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon paprika
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup mozzarella cheese
8-10 soft dinner rolls or slider buns
1 tablespoon butter, melted
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large bowl, combine the cooked shredded chicken, mayonnaise, cream cheese, sriracha sauce, hot sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cheddar cheese, and mozzarella cheese. Mix well until the chicken is fully coated in the creamy sauce.
Slice the dinner rolls in half horizontally and place the bottom halves in a baking dish.
Spoon the chicken mixture evenly over the bottom half of the buns.
Place the top halves of the buns on top of the chicken mixture.
Brush the tops of the buns with melted butter and sprinkle with a little paprika or parsley if desired.
Bake the buns in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the buns are golden and the cheese is melted.
Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes approximately 8-10 buns, serving 4-5 people as an appetizer or snack. Total time is about 30 minutes, including prep and cooking time.

Variations

Spicy Chicken with Bacon: Add crispy bacon crumbles to the chicken filling for an added crunch and smoky flavor.
Vegetarian Version: Substitute the chicken with a plant-based protein like tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian version of this dish.
Cheese Lovers: If you’re a big fan of cheese, increase the cheese ratio by adding more cheddar and mozzarella, or even a tangy cheese like gouda.
Mild Version: Reduce the amount of hot sauce and sriracha to make the buns less spicy.

Storage/reheating

Storage: Store leftover buns in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheating: To reheat, place the buns in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave them for 20-30 seconds, but they may lose some of their crispy texture.

FAQs

1. Can I use pre-cooked chicken for this recipe?

Yes, pre-cooked or leftover chicken works perfectly. Just shred it before mixing with the other ingredients.

2. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can experiment with different types of cheese, such as pepper jack or gouda, for different flavor profiles.

3. Can I make the chicken filling ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken filling a day in advance and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to assemble the buns.

4. Can I make these buns spicy without using sriracha?

Yes, you can substitute sriracha with any hot sauce of your choice, or add chili flakes for a different kind of heat.

5. Can I use a different type of bread for this recipe?

You can use any soft buns or rolls, such as slider buns or Hawaiian rolls, as a substitute for dinner rolls.

6. How can I make this recipe healthier?

To make it healthier, use a lighter mayonnaise, opt for reduced-fat cream cheese, and swap some of the cheese for a lower-fat variety.

7. Can I freeze these buns?

Yes, you can freeze the assembled buns before baking. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

8. Can I add vegetables to the filling?

Absolutely! You can add chopped bell peppers, onions, or spinach for added texture and flavor.

9. How can I make the buns more crispy on top?

To get a crispier top, you can broil the buns for 1-2 minutes after baking. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning.

10. Can I use a store-bought sauce instead of making my own chicken filling?

Yes, you can use a pre-made buffalo sauce or spicy mayo if you’re short on time.

Conclusion

Cheesy Dynamite Chicken Buns are a flavorful and satisfying dish that combines the perfect blend of heat, cheese, and savory chicken. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just indulging in a tasty snack, these buns are sure to impress. Easy to make, customizable, and utterly delicious, this recipe is a must-try for any spicy food lover!