Buffalo Chicken Roll Ups Wrapped in Bacon

If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing appetizer for your next gathering, look no further than bacon-wrapped buffalo chicken roll-ups. These delectable bites combine savory chicken, spicy flavors, and crispy bacon, making them the perfect finger food for tailgate parties, game nights, or casual get-togethers. While the preparation may require a bit of time, the delicious results are sure to impress your guests. Let’s dive into how to create these mouthwatering delights!

Ingredients for Bacon-Wrapped Buffalo Chicken Roll-Ups

To make these roll-ups, you will need the following ingredients:

• 2 lbs of chicken thighs (boneless or skin-on)
• 1 lb of bacon
• 8 oz of cream cheese
• 8 whole jalapeño peppers
• 16 oz of hot wing sauce

While this recipe uses chicken thighs for their juiciness and flavor, you can opt for boneless, skinless thighs to save on prep time. The combination of chicken, cream cheese, and jalapeños creates a rich flavor that is complemented perfectly by the smoky, crispy bacon.

Preparing the Chicken Thighs

Start by removing the skin from the chicken thighs and trimming out any bones or excess fat. This step is crucial as it ensures a more even cooking and helps the flavors marry beautifully.

Next, place the trimmed thighs into a ziplock bag and pour in the hot wing sauce, reserving about 2 tablespoons for later. Marinate the chicken in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to enhance the flavor.

Stuffing the Jalapeños

While the chicken is marinating, you can prepare the jalapeños. Here’s how to stuff them:

1. Cut the ends off the jalapeño peppers and slice them down the middle lengthwise.
2. Remove the seeds and ribs using a small spoon. This part is vital, as it’s where the heat resides. Remember to wash your hands thoroughly afterward!
3. In a small bowl, mix the softened cream cheese with the reserved hot wing sauce until well combined.
4. Spoon the cream cheese mixture into the halved jalapeños.

Assembling the Roll-Ups

Now comes the fun part—wrapping everything together! Take a marinated chicken thigh, place a stuffed jalapeño in the center, and wrap the chicken around it securely.

Next, take two pieces of bacon and wrap them around the chicken thigh. Use toothpicks to secure the bacon in place, ensuring that the roll-up holds its shape during cooking.

Cooking the Bacon-Wrapped Buffalo Chicken Roll-Ups

Preheat your smoker to 275-300 degrees Fahrenheit. Once the smoker is hot, place the roll-ups directly on the cooking grate. Cooking them at this temperature allows the bacon to crisp up while the chicken remains moist and tender.

After about 1 hour, check the internal temperature using a reliable instant-read thermometer. Aim for an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit for safety and doneness. If you don’t have one yet, consider investing in a Thermapen, which is an excellent tool for BBQ enthusiasts.

Once the chicken reaches the desired temperature, glaze the roll-ups with your favorite BBQ sauce and return them to the smoker for an additional 30 minutes. This step adds a lovely caramelized layer to the bacon, making them even more irresistible.

Serving Suggestions

Once cooked, let the roll-ups rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute within the chicken, enhancing its flavor. Serve the bacon-wrapped buffalo chicken roll-ups warm, garnished with chopped green onions or cilantro for a fresh touch.

Pair these delightful bites with some ranch dressing or blue cheese dip for an added layer of flavor. Here are a few serving suggestions:

• As a hearty appetizer at parties
• Alongside celery sticks and carrot sticks for a complete snack
• With a side of coleslaw to balance the heat
• As part of a game-day buffet spread

Variations to Try

If you want to switch things up, consider trying some variations of this recipe:

• Use different types of cheese: Try pepper jack or cheddar for a unique twist.
• Add spices: Incorporate garlic powder or onion powder into the cream cheese mixture.
• Experiment with different sauces: Substitute the hot wing sauce with BBQ sauce or teriyaki for a different flavor profile.
• Use turkey bacon for a lighter version while still maintaining the bacon flavor.

Storage and Reheating

If you happen to have any leftovers (though it's unlikely!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the roll-ups in an oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. Avoid microwaving them, as this can lead to a soggy texture.

Join the Community

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If you want to know other articles similar to Buffalo Chicken Roll Ups Wrapped in Bacon you can visit the category Chicken Recipes.