Welcome friends, to a delicious adventure right from my bustling kitchen here in Charleston. Today, I’m thrilled to share a recipe that’s become a favorite in our household: Buffalo Chicken & Ranch Grit Bomb Melts. This dish is a delightful fusion of fiery buffalo flavors and creamy Southern grits, topped with a cooling ranch drizzle that brings everything together. It’s a creation that reminds me of the lively, flavor-packed meals from my childhood, mingling the rich culinary traditions of my Mexican-American roots with the comforting Southern cuisine I’ve come to adore.
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Why You’ll Love This Buffalo Chicken & Ranch Grit Bomb Melts
Growing up in Asheville, North Carolina, mealtime was an event, full of laughter, stories, and of course, bold flavors. Buffalo Chicken & Ranch Grit Bomb Melts embodies that spirit. You’ll love this recipe for its simplicity and the way it turns humble ingredients into a memorable meal. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, offering a satisfying blend of spicy, creamy, and tangy elements that dance on the tongue. The dish also embraces the philosophy I inherited from my abuela: cooking should be intuitive and joyful.
Ingredients You’ll Need for This Buffalo Chicken & Ranch Grit Bomb Melts
- 1 pound chicken breast, cooked and shredded
- 1 cup buffalo sauce
- 2 cups quick-cooking grits
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Feel free to substitute quick-cooking grits with stone-ground grits if you prefer a more textured base. And for a lighter option, you can use Greek yogurt instead of ranch dressing.
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 450 per serving
- Protein: 28g
- Fat: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 780mg
Spice Up Your Snack Game with Buffalo Chicken & Ranch Grit Bomb Melts
Learn how to make delicious Buffalo Chicken & Ranch Grit Bomb Melts. Easy recipe with step-by-step instructions.
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken breast, cooked and shredded
- 1 cup buffalo sauce
- 2 cups quick-cooking grits
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Feel free to substitute quick-cooking grits with stone-ground grits if you prefer a more textured base. And for a lighter option, you can use Greek yogurt instead of ranch dressing.
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, bring the chicken broth to a boil. Stir in the grits, reduce the heat to low, and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until thick and creamy.
- Remove the grits from the heat and stir in the butter, cheddar cheese, and garlic powder. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken with buffalo sauce, mixing until the chicken is thoroughly coated.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F. On a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, scoop out portions of the grits and form them into small mounds or “bombs.”
- Top each grit bomb with a generous amount of buffalo chicken. Drizzle with ranch dressing and sprinkle with chopped green onions.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, until the edges are slightly golden and the cheese is bubbly.
As you bake these delightful bombs, let the aroma fill your kitchen, reminding you of those cherished family gatherings. Cooking has always been about more than just food — it’s about creating moments and memories.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International
Steps to Create Your Buffalo Chicken & Ranch Grit Bomb Melts
- In a medium saucepan, bring the chicken broth to a boil. Stir in the grits, reduce the heat to low, and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until thick and creamy.
- Remove the grits from the heat and stir in the butter, cheddar cheese, and garlic powder. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken with buffalo sauce, mixing until the chicken is thoroughly coated.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F. On a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, scoop out portions of the grits and form them into small mounds or “bombs.”
- Top each grit bomb with a generous amount of buffalo chicken. Drizzle with ranch dressing and sprinkle with chopped green onions.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, until the edges are slightly golden and the cheese is bubbly.
As you bake these delightful bombs, let the aroma fill your kitchen, reminding you of those cherished family gatherings. Cooking has always been about more than just food — it’s about creating moments and memories.
Tips for Making the Best Buffalo Chicken & Ranch Grit Bomb Melts
For the best results, use freshly cooked chicken breast, as it absorbs the buffalo sauce beautifully. If you’re short on time, rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut. Make sure to taste your grits before forming the bombs — they should be well-seasoned and creamy. And don’t be afraid to get creative! Add some crispy bacon bits or jalapeño slices for an extra kick.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
These Buffalo Chicken & Ranch Grit Bomb Melts are delightful on their own, but if you’re looking to round out the meal, consider serving them alongside a crisp green salad or a refreshing coleslaw. A glass of sweet tea or a cold beer complements the spicy and creamy flavors beautifully, making for a perfect Southern-inspired feast.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply bake in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the grits rubbery.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main ingredients for Buffalo Chicken & Ranch Grit Bomb Melts?
The main ingredients for Buffalo Chicken & Ranch Grit Bomb Melts include the items listed in our ingredients section above. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect flavor and texture.
How long does it take to make Buffalo Chicken & Ranch Grit Bomb Melts?
The total time to make Buffalo Chicken & Ranch Grit Bomb Melts includes both preparation and cooking time. Check the recipe card above for exact timing details.
Can I make Buffalo Chicken & Ranch Grit Bomb Melts ahead of time?
Yes, Buffalo Chicken & Ranch Grit Bomb Melts can often be prepared in advance. Store it properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within the recommended timeframe.
What can I serve with Buffalo Chicken & Ranch Grit Bomb Melts?
Buffalo Chicken & Ranch Grit Bomb Melts pairs well with various sides and accompaniments. Consider the serving suggestions mentioned in the recipe for the best dining experience.
Is Buffalo Chicken & Ranch Grit Bomb Melts suitable for special diets?
Depending on the ingredients used, Buffalo Chicken & Ranch Grit Bomb Melts may be adapted for various dietary needs. Check the ingredients list and consider substitutions as needed for your dietary requirements.
Final Thoughts
Buffalo Chicken & Ranch Grit Bomb Melts bring together the vibrant flavors of my childhood with the comforting essence of Southern cuisine. It’s a dish that’s both playful and satisfying, perfect for sharing with family and friends. I hope this recipe inspires you to embrace the joy of cooking and perhaps even create new memories with your loved ones. Remember, the kitchen is a place for creativity, care, and most importantly, love. Happy cooking!
