Get ready to take your taste buds on an unforgettable adventure with the mouthwatering Big Green Egg Chicken Bombs! This incredible dish combines tender chicken thighs, creamy cheese filling, and crispy bacon, all cooked to perfection on the iconic Big Green Egg. Whether you're hosting a backyard barbecue or looking for a show-stopping dinner, these chicken bombs are sure to impress your guests and leave them begging for seconds. With just a little prep and the right techniques, you'll create a dish that not only looks stunning but tastes even better. Read on to discover how to make these irresistible bites that will elevate your grilling game to a whole new level!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 40 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 8 chicken thighs
- 8 slices of bacon
- 1 cup cream cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your Big Green Egg to 375°F (190°C) using indirect heat. Make sure to set it up with a plate setter or convEGGtor to create a barrier between the chicken and the direct heat.
- While the grill is heating up, prepare the chicken thighs. Pat them dry with paper towels and place them on a clean cutting board.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated and you have a creamy filling.
- Take a chicken thigh and place a generous spoonful of the cheese mixture in the center. Fold the sides of the thigh over the filling, then roll it up tightly to encase the filling completely. Secure the roll with toothpicks if necessary.
- Wrap each chicken thigh tightly with a slice of bacon, ensuring that the bacon covers the entire surface of the chicken. You can use toothpicks to secure the bacon if needed.
- Once all chicken thighs are wrapped in bacon, place them on a grilling rack or directly on the grill grates, ensuring they are spaced out for even cooking.
- Close the lid of the Big Green Egg and cook the chicken bombs for about 30-40 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the bacon is crispy.
- During the last 10 minutes of cooking, you may choose to brush your favorite barbecue sauce over the chicken bombs for added flavor, if desired.
- Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken bombs from the grill and let them rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute for a juicier bite.
- Serve the Big Green Egg Chicken Bombs hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired, and enjoy your delicious meal!
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time on the day of grilling, prepare the cheese filling and wrap the chicken bombs in advance. Just store them in the refrigerator until you're ready to cook.
- Temperature Control: Ensure your Big Green Egg is properly preheated to 375°F (190°C) before adding the chicken. Using indirect heat with a plate setter or convEGGtor will help achieve even cooking and prevent flare-ups.
- Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses in the filling. Adding pepper jack for a spicy kick or mozzarella for a milder flavor can make these chicken bombs even more exciting.
- Bacon Wrapping Technique: For an extra crispy bacon exterior, consider partially cooking the bacon before wrapping it around the chicken. This will help render some of the fat and ensure a perfect crispy finish.
- Check Internal Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This guarantees that your chicken is cooked through while remaining juicy and tender.
- Rest Before Serving: Allow the chicken bombs to rest for about 5 minutes after cooking. This helps the juices redistribute, resulting in a more flavorful and moist bite.
- Sauce It Up: Enhance the flavor by brushing your favorite barbecue sauce on the chicken bombs during the last 10 minutes of cooking. This adds a delicious glaze that complements the smoky flavor from the grill.
- Garnish for Presentation: A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro before serving not only adds color but also a fresh burst of flavor that elevates the dish.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 2g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 35g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Cholesterol: 180mg
