Cheesy Dynamite Chicken Buns: Spicy, Gooey Perfection!

Cheesy Dynamite Chicken Buns represent a culinary triumph, offering an unparalleled explosion of flavor in every tender bite. Imagine a perfectly baked, fluffy bun cradling a succulent, subtly spicy chicken filling, all crowned with a generous layer of melted, golden cheese. This is more than just a snack; it’s an experience designed to awaken your taste buds and deliver ultimate comfort, making it an irresistible choice for any occasion.

While the precise ancient lineage of these delightful buns might not be recorded in history books, their inspiration draws deeply from the universally cherished tradition of savory filled pastries and the ever-popular appeal of spicy chicken dishes worldwide. These buns are a testament to modern culinary creativity, blending the comforting familiarity of freshly baked bread with the exciting zest of contemporary flavors. They embody a fusion, born from a desire to combine the best elements of a satisfying meal into a convenient, handheld delight that caters to a craving for something both hearty and exhilarating.

Why Everyone Adores Cheesy Dynamite Chicken Buns

The widespread adoration for these delectable treats stems from their harmonious blend of textures and tastes. The softness of the bun, the savory and perfectly seasoned chicken, and the warm, gooey cheese combine to create a symphony on the palate. They are incredibly versatile, perfect as a substantial snack, a delightful appetizer for gatherings, or even a light, satisfying lunch. We are confident that once you experience the sheer joy of biting into one of these incredibly flavorful Cheesy Dynamite Chicken Buns, they will quickly become a cherished favorite in your repertoire.

Ingredients:

• For the Soft & Fluffy Dough:
• 3 ½ cups (about 420g) all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
• ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar
• 2 ¼ teaspoons (1 packet) instant dry yeast
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup (240ml) warm milk (around 105-115°F / 40-46°C)
• ¼ cup (56g) unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
• 1 large egg, at room temperature
• For the Irresistible Cheesy Dynamite Chicken Filling:
• 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into ½-inch cubes
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon cooking oil (like vegetable or canola)
• ½ cup (120g) good quality mayonnaise
• ¼ cup (60ml) sweet chili sauce
• 1-2 tablespoons Sriracha or your preferred hot sauce (adjust to your spice preference)
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon honey or a pinch of sugar
• 1 cup (about 115g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
• 1 cup (about 115g) shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
• 2 tablespoons fresh chives or green onions, finely chopped, for garnish (optional)
• For the Golden Egg Wash:
• 1 large egg yolk
• 1 tablespoon milk or water

Preparing the Irresistible Cheesy Dynamite Chicken Filling:

1. Let’s start by getting our chicken ready for its dynamite transformation! I like to take my boneless, skinless chicken breasts and cut them into small, uniform cubes, usually around ½ to ¾ inch in size. This ensures that each piece cooks evenly and, crucially, makes the filling much easier to manage when we start stuffing our incredible Cheesy Dynamite Chicken Buns. Once cubed, I season the chicken pieces generously with a good pinch of salt, freshly ground black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. I make sure every single piece is beautifully coated, as this initial seasoning sets the foundation for our flavorful filling.
2. Next, we’ll cook the chicken. Heat a tablespoon of your preferred cooking oil, whether it’s vegetable or canola, in a large skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering enticingly, add the seasoned chicken pieces. It’s important to arrange them in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. If necessary, I cook the chicken in batches; overcrowding can lead to steaming, and we’re aiming for a lovely golden-brown sear and thorough cooking. I cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s cooked through and has developed that inviting light browning on all sides. Once perfectly cooked, I remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside in a bowl to cool down slightly.
3. While our delicious chicken is cooling, it’s the perfect time to whisk up that amazing dynamite sauce that gives these buns their signature kick! In a medium-sized bowl, I combine the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, and a touch of honey (or a pinch of sugar if you prefer). This mixture forms the luscious, creamy base of our dynamite sauce, providing that absolutely perfect balance of creamy richness, delightful sweetness, savory depth, and a hint of tang. It’s a symphony of flavors even before the heat is added!
4. Now, for that fiery punch! I carefully add the Sriracha or my chosen hot sauce to the mixture. My personal recommendation is always to start with a smaller amount, perhaps a tablespoon, and then give it a taste. Everyone’s spice tolerance is wonderfully unique, so you can always add more to achieve your desired level of exhilarating heat. Once the Sriracha is in, I whisk everything together until the sauce is beautifully smooth and thoroughly combined. A quick taste-test is essential here; I adjust any seasonings as needed – maybe a little more sweet chili for a touch more sweetness, or an extra dash of Sriracha for an amplified zing.
5. Once the cooked chicken has cooled sufficiently – warm is fine, but not piping hot – I add it directly into the bowl with our freshly made dynamite sauce. With a gentle hand, I stir the mixture, ensuring that every single piece of succulent chicken is thoroughly coated in that vibrant, luscious sauce. This is truly where the magic begins to unfold, as the chicken soaks up all those incredible flavors. This perfectly coated chicken mixture will be the flavorful heart and soul of our Cheesy Dynamite Chicken Buns.
6. Finally, for that utterly irresistible cheesiness that truly elevates these buns, I incorporate about half of both the shredded sharp cheddar and the shredded mozzarella cheese directly into the chicken mixture. I stir it in gently, ensuring the cheese is evenly distributed throughout the filling. The remaining cheese, don’t worry, will be reserved for a glorious cheesy topping later on. Once the cheese is mixed in, I cover the bowl and transfer the filling to the refrigerator to chill while we move on to preparing our bun dough. Chilling the filling helps it firm up slightly, which I’ve found makes it significantly easier to work with when it’s time to stuff those delectable buns. Trust me on this step; a chilled filling makes the assembly process so much smoother and less messy!

Preparing the Soft & Fluffy Dough for Cheesy Dynamite Chicken Buns:

7. In a large mixing bowl, or the bowl of your trusty stand mixer fitted with the dough hook attachment, I begin by combining the warm milk, granulated sugar, and instant dry yeast. I give it a gentle stir and then let it sit undisturbed for about 5-10 minutes. You’ll know your yeast is happy and actively working when it becomes wonderfully foamy and bubbly on the surface. If, after this time, nothing happens, it likely means your yeast is old or your milk wasn’t at the correct temperature (either too cold or too hot!), and in that case, it’s best to start again. I aim for warm milk around 105-115°F (40-46°C); it’s the sweet spot for activating yeast without killing it.
8. Once I see that beautiful foamy yeast, I know we’re on the right track! I then add the melted unsalted butter, the large egg (it’s crucial for the egg to be at room temperature for better incorporation into the dough), and the salt to the mixture. I give these wet ingredients a quick whisk to ensure they’re well combined before adding the dry ingredients.
9. Now comes the flour! I gradually add the all-purpose flour, usually about a cup at a time, to the wet ingredients. If I’m using my stand mixer, I start on a low speed until the flour is mostly incorporated. If I’m mixing by hand, I use a sturdy spoon or a flexible spatula. I continue adding flour until a shaggy, somewhat sticky dough begins to form, slowly pulling away from the sides of the bowl. It’s a beautiful transformation from liquid to a nascent solid.
10. Once the shaggy dough has formed, I increase the mixer speed to medium-low, or if kneading by hand, I turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. I then knead the dough for a good 8-10 minutes. This kneading time is absolutely crucial. The dough will transform from sticky and rough to wonderfully smooth, elastic, and, importantly, it will no longer stick excessively to the sides of the bowl or my hands. A great way to check for proper gluten development is the “windowpane test”: you should be able to stretch a small piece of dough thin enough to see light through it without it tearing. This thorough kneading is what develops the gluten, giving our Cheesy Dynamite Chicken Buns their wonderfully soft, chewy, and airy texture. It’s an effort well worth it!
11. After all that hard work kneading, it’s time for the first proof. I lightly grease a clean, large bowl with a little cooking oil. Then, I transfer the perfectly kneaded dough into this bowl, turning it once to ensure the entire surface is coated with a thin layer of oil. This prevents the dough from drying out and forming a crust during its rise.
12. I then cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel. I place it in a warm, draft-free place for its first rise. This usually takes anywhere from 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the dough has beautifully doubled in size. Patience is truly a virtue at this stage; I never rush this process! I’ve found that a longer, slower rise almost always results in a more flavorful and tender bun, which is exactly what we want for our spectacular Cheesy Dynamite Chicken Buns.

Assembling the Cheesy Dynamite Chicken Buns:

13. Once our dough has gloriously doubled in size, I gently punch it down to release all that accumulated air. I then turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. I knead it very lightly for about 30 seconds, just enough to fully deflate it and get rid of any large air pockets. This helps create a more uniform crumb structure in our final buns.
14. Next, I divide the dough into equal portions. For medium-sized, generous buns, I typically aim for 12-16 pieces. To ensure consistency and even baking, I often use a kitchen scale to make sure each piece weighs roughly the same. Once divided, I roll each portion into a smooth, tight ball. This helps create a nice, even surface for shaping.
15. Now, for the shaping! I take one of the dough balls and gently flatten it into a disc, aiming for about 4-5 inches in diameter. I find it easiest to use my fingertips, gently stretching and pressing, always making sure the edges are slightly thinner than the center. Keeping the center a little thicker provides better support for our luscious filling.
16. Here comes the star of the show: our incredible Cheesy Dynamite Chicken filling! I spoon a generous amount of the chilled filling into the center of the flattened dough disc. I don’t shy away from filling it, but I also make sure not to overfill to the point where it becomes impossible to seal. Approximately 2-3 tablespoons per bun usually works perfectly, ensuring a satisfying bite in every single one of our Cheesy Dynamite Chicken Buns.
17. This step requires a little care and precision. I carefully gather the edges of the dough around the filling, bringing them up to meet squarely in the center. Then, I pinch the seams tightly and thoroughly to seal the bun completely. It’s vital to ensure there are absolutely no gaps; otherwise, our delicious, gooey filling might escape during baking, and we definitely don’t want that! Once sealed, I gently roll the bun between my palms to smooth out the surface and create a beautifully round, uniform shape. This technique not only keeps the filling secure but also helps ensure a perfectly aesthetic final appearance for your finished Cheesy Dynamite Chicken Buns.
18. As each bun is filled and shaped, I arrange them on a baking sheet that I’ve lined with parchment paper, making sure to leave enough space between them for their second rise. Sometimes, I like to bake them in a round cake pan or a square baking dish, arranging them so they slightly touch. This creates a wonderful pull-apart effect when they’re baked, which is always a huge hit at my table!
19. Once all the buns are beautifully filled and shaped, I loosely cover the baking sheet with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel. I then let them rise again in a warm, draft-free place for another 30-45 minutes. This second proof is complete when they look noticeably puffy and have increased by about 50% in size. This step is absolutely essential for achieving those wonderfully light and airy buns we’re aiming for.

Baking and Finishing Your Irresistible Cheesy Dynamite Chicken Buns:

19. Approximately 15 minutes before the second proof is complete and our buns are ready to bake, I preheat my oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the oven is at the correct, consistent temperature the moment those precious buns are ready to go in, which is key for even baking and a beautiful golden crust.
20. While the oven preheats and the buns finish their final rise, I prepare the egg wash. In a small bowl, I whisk together the egg yolk with a tablespoon of milk or water. This simple mixture is what will give our buns that gorgeous golden-brown color and a lovely, subtle shine once they’re baked.
21. Once the buns have completed their second, glorious rise and look perfectly puffy, I very gently brush the tops of each bun with the prepared egg wash. It’s important to be incredibly delicate here; we don’t want to accidentally deflate them after all that careful proofing! A light touch with a pastry brush is all that’s needed.
22. Now for the final, absolutely irresistible cheesy touch! I generously sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese over the tops of the egg-washed buns. This cheese will melt beautifully during baking, creating a delectable, crispy, and gooey cheesy crust that is simply divine. If I’m feeling extra fancy, or just want a burst of freshness, I’ll also sprinkle a few chopped fresh chives or finely diced green onions on top at this stage. It adds a lovely aromatic element to our Cheesy Dynamite Chicken Buns.
23. With the utmost care, I transfer the baking sheet filled with our promising Cheesy Dynamite Chicken Buns to the preheated oven. I bake them for approximately 20-25 minutes, or until the buns are a beautiful deep golden brown on top and, crucially, cooked through. It’s worth noting that exact baking times can vary slightly depending on your oven and the specific size of your buns, so I always keep a close eye on them. If I notice them browning too quickly, I’ll loosely tent them with a piece of aluminum foil to prevent over-browning while the insides finish cooking.
24. Once baked to absolute perfection, emanating an aroma that fills the entire kitchen, I carefully remove the buns from the oven. For the ultimate softness and an extra touch of richness, I sometimes like to brush them lightly with a little melted butter right as they come out of the oven, though this step is entirely optional and the buns are fantastic without it.
25. I let the Cheesy Dynamite Chicken Buns cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes first, allowing them to firm up slightly. Then, I transfer them to a wire rack to cool a little further. While they are incredibly tempting to devour immediately, a brief cooling period allows the steam inside to redistribute, which results in an even softer interior and, importantly, prevents you from burning your mouth on that deliciously hot, gooey filling!
26. These Cheesy Dynamite Chicken Buns are, without a doubt, best served warm. This ensures that the cheese remains wonderfully gooey and the dynamite chicken filling is at its most flavorful and comforting. If desired, I love to garnish them with a final sprinkle of additional fresh chives or finely chopped green onions just before serving, adding a lovely pop of color and freshness. These buns are not just a snack; they truly are a delightful and satisfying meal in themselves, perfect for sharing with loved ones (or, let’s be honest, keeping all to yourself!). Enjoy every single, incredibly flavorful, and comforting bite of these delightful treats! They are truly an explosion of flavor in every bun.

Conclusion:

And there you have it, my friends! We’ve reached the delicious culmination of our culinary journey, and I genuinely hope you’re feeling as inspired as I am about this incredible recipe. The creation we’ve explored today isn’t just another dish; it’s an experience, a flavor explosion, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will undoubtedly become a staple in your kitchen. I truly believe that once you try these Cheesy Dynamite Chicken Buns, you’ll understand why I’m so enthusiastic about them. They offer that perfect blend of creamy, spicy, and savory, all encased in a delightfully soft, golden bun. It’s the kind of comfort food that excites your taste buds and warms your soul, making every bite a memorable one. The unique “dynamite” kick, perfectly balanced by the generous amount of gooey cheese and tender chicken, is what elevates this recipe from simply good to absolutely unforgettable.

What makes this recipe a must-try, beyond its undeniable deliciousness, is its versatility and the sheer joy it brings to the table. Imagine the smiles when you present a platter of these golden beauties at your next gathering! They’re fantastic for game nights, casual family dinners, or even as an impressive appetizer for more formal occasions. The aroma alone, as they bake to perfection in your oven, is enough to get everyone’s mouths watering. It’s a recipe that feels indulgent yet is surprisingly straightforward to prepare, allowing you to achieve gourmet-level results without spending hours slaving away in the kitchen. This is more than just a meal; it’s an edible celebration, a testament to how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly spectacular.

Elevate Your Serving Experience:

While these buns are absolutely divine on their own, let’s talk about how you can further enhance their serving potential. For an appetizer spread, consider pairing them with a cooling dip like ranch, a creamy blue cheese dressing, or even a homemade cilantro-lime yogurt dip to cut through the richness and spice. A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette makes them a balanced and complete main course, adding a refreshing contrast to the hearty buns. For a more substantial meal, a simple bowl of tomato soup or a hearty lentil soup would complement their robust flavors beautifully. Don’t be afraid to think outside the box; a side of crisp coleslaw could also provide a wonderful textural and flavor counterpoint.

Unleash Your Creativity with Variations:

One of the things I adore most about cooking is the ability to customize and adapt recipes, and this one is wonderfully forgiving! Feel free to play around with the cheese – a blend of Monterey Jack, smoked gouda, or even a sharp cheddar could add intriguing new dimensions. If you’re looking to dial up the heat, a sprinkle of fresh chopped jalapeños or a dash of your favorite hot sauce into the chicken mixture would be fantastic. For those who prefer a milder experience, simply reduce the amount of sriracha or replace it with a sweet chili sauce. You could also introduce finely diced bell peppers, corn, or even a touch of caramelized onion to the filling for added flavor and texture. For a different protein, shredded pork, ground beef, or even a plant-based chicken substitute could work wonderfully. And if you’re feeling adventurous, consider baking the mixture as a cheesy dynamite dip, served with tortilla chips or crusty bread, or even transforming it into sliders on smaller dinner rolls for bite-sized delights. The possibilities are truly endless, allowing you to tailor this recipe perfectly to your personal taste and dietary preferences.

Now, it’s your turn! I’ve shared my passion for this recipe, given you all the tools and tips, and now I wholeheartedly encourage you to roll up your sleeves and give these Cheesy Dynamite Chicken Buns a try. Don’t be shy; embrace the process, have fun in the kitchen, and prepare to be amazed by the results. I promise you, the aroma alone will be enough to convince you that you’ve made a great decision! I am genuinely excited for you to experience the satisfaction of pulling these golden, cheesy, spicy buns out of your oven. This isn’t just about following instructions; it’s about creating something delicious with your own hands and sharing that joy with others.

Once you’ve experienced the magic, please, please, please come back and share your culinary adventures with me! I absolutely love hearing about your successes, your tweaks, and seeing your amazing creations. Did you add a secret ingredient? Did you serve them in a unique way? What was the reaction from your friends and family? Your stories and photos inspire me and our entire cooking community. So, go forth, bake, enjoy, and then tell us all about it. Happy cooking, everyone!

Cheesy Dynamite Chicken Buns: Spicy, Gooey Perfection!

Cheesy Dynamite Chicken Buns represent a culinary triumph, offering an unparalleled explosion of flavor in every tender bite. Imagine a perfectly baked, fluffy bun cradling a succulent, subtly spicy chicken filling, all crowned with a generous layer of melted, golden cheese. This is more than just a snack; it’s an experience designed to awaken your taste buds and deliver ultimate comfort, making it an irresistible choice for any occasion.

Prep Time
30 Minutes

Cook Time
25 Minutes

Total Time
45 Minutes

Servings
14 servings

Ingredients

• 3 ½ cups (420g) all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar
• 2 ¼ teaspoons instant dry yeast
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup (240ml) warm milk (105-115°F / 40-46°C)
• ¼ cup (56g) unsalted butter, melted
• 1 large egg
• 1 lb (450g) chicken breast, cut into ½-inch cubes
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon cooking oil (like vegetable or canola)
• ½ cup (120g) mayonnaise
• ¼ cup (60ml) sweet chili sauce
• 1-2 tablespoons Sriracha or your preferred hot sauce
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon honey
• 1 cup (115g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
• 1 cup (115g) shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
• 2 tablespoons fresh chives or green onions, finely chopped (optional)
• 1 large egg yolk
• 1 tablespoon milk or water

Instructions

1. Step 1
   Cut 1 lb chicken breast into ½-inch cubes. Season with 1 tsp garlic powder, ½ tsp onion powder, ½ tsp salt, and ¼ tsp black pepper.
2. Step 2
   Heat 1 tbsp cooking oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook seasoned chicken for 5-7 minutes until browned and cooked through. Remove and let cool.
3. Step 3
   In a medium bowl, whisk together ½ cup mayonnaise, ¼ cup sweet chili sauce, 1 tbsp soy sauce, and 1 tsp honey. Add 1-2 tbsp Sriracha (to taste) and whisk until smooth.
4. Step 4
   Add cooled chicken to the dynamite sauce and stir to coat. Mix half of the 1 cup shredded cheddar and 1 cup shredded mozzarella into the chicken mixture. Chill filling.
5. Step 5
   In a large bowl, combine 1 cup warm milk, ¼ cup granulated sugar, and 2 ¼ tsp instant dry yeast. Let sit 5-10 minutes until foamy.
6. Step 6
   Add ¼ cup melted butter, 1 large egg, and 1 tsp salt; whisk.
7. Step 7
   Gradually add 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour, mixing until a shaggy dough forms. Knead dough for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
8. Step 8
   Lightly grease a bowl, place dough inside, turn to coat. Cover and let rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled.
9. Step 9
   Punch down dough and turn onto a lightly floured surface. Knead lightly for 30 seconds. Divide dough into 12-16 equal portions and roll into smooth balls.
10. Step 10
    Flatten each dough ball into a 4-5 inch disc, with slightly thinner edges. Spoon 2-3 tablespoons of chilled filling into the center of each dough disc. Gather dough edges, pinch tightly to seal, and roll into a smooth ball.
11. Step 11
    Place filled buns on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spaced apart (or touching for pull-apart buns). Cover and let rise for 30-45 minutes until puffy (about 50% increased in size).
12. Step 12
    Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) during the last 15 minutes of the second rise. Whisk 1 egg yolk with 1 tbsp milk or water for egg wash. Gently brush tops of risen buns with egg wash.
13. Step 13
    Sprinkle remaining shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese over buns. Optionally, add chopped chives or green onions. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through (tent with foil if browning too quickly).
14. Step 14
    Remove from oven. Optionally, brush with melted butter. Let cool on baking sheet for a few minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Serve warm, optionally garnished with fresh chives or green onions.

Important Information

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.