Cheesy Dynamite Chicken Buns – Spicy, Savory & Perfectly Stuffed

Cheesy Dynamite Chicken Buns are the ultimate handheld comfort food — soft, fluffy buns stuffed with spicy, creamy chicken filling and gooey melted cheese. Inspired by the bold flavors of “dynamite chicken,” these buns are oven-baked to golden perfection and bursting with cheesy, savory heat in every bite.

Ideal for lunchboxes, game-day snacks, or casual dinners, these stuffed buns deliver restaurant-style flair in a convenient, make-ahead-friendly form. Think of them as a mix between spicy bao and cheesy chicken pockets — with a delicious kick.

Ingredients Overview

Every element of this dish brings bold flavor and satisfying texture, from the pillowy dough to the spicy, cheesy filling.

For the Dough

• All-Purpose Flour: Provides structure and elasticity.

• Warm Milk or Water: Activates the yeast and softens the dough.

• Active Dry Yeast: Helps the dough rise and adds a slight tang.

• Sugar: Feeds the yeast and gives a slight sweetness to balance the spice.

• Salt: Enhances overall flavor.

• Butter or Oil: Adds richness and keeps the dough tender.

• Egg (Optional): For added softness and color.

For the Dynamite Chicken Filling

• Cooked Chicken: Shredded or finely chopped. Rotisserie or leftover grilled chicken works great.

• Garlic: Freshly minced for aroma and heat.

• Chili Sauce or Sriracha: The “dynamite” part — spicy, tangy, and bold.

• Mayonnaise: Creamy and essential to mellow out the heat.

• Ketchup: Adds a hint of sweetness and depth.

• Paprika or Cayenne: For extra smokiness or heat.

• Mozzarella or Cheddar Cheese: Melt-in-the-middle goodness.

Topping (Optional but recommended)

• Egg Wash: For a glossy, golden finish.

• Sesame Seeds or Nigella Seeds: Adds visual appeal and crunch.

• Extra Cheese: For cheesy pull-apart tops.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough

Ingredients:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 tbsp sugar

• 2¼ tsp (1 packet) active dry yeast

• 1 tsp salt

• ¾ cup warm milk or water

• 2 tbsp butter or oil

• 1 egg (optional, for richer dough)

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mix warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy.

2. Add flour and salt, then mix in melted butter and egg (if using).

3. Knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

4. Cover and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.

2. Make the Dynamite Chicken Filling

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded)

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• ½ cup mayonnaise

• 2 tbsp chili sauce or Sriracha

• 1 tbsp ketchup

• ½ tsp paprika or cayenne

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese

Instructions:

1. In a skillet, sauté garlic in a teaspoon of oil until fragrant.

2. Add shredded chicken and cook 2–3 minutes.

3. Stir in chili sauce, ketchup, paprika, salt, and pepper.

4. Remove from heat and let cool slightly, then mix in mayo and cheese.

5. Chill for 10 minutes — easier to handle when assembling.

3. Assemble the Buns

1. Punch down the dough and divide into 10–12 equal portions.

2. Flatten each portion into a disk and place 2–3 tbsp filling in the center.

3. Gather the edges and pinch to seal like a dumpling. Flip seam-side down.

4. Place on a lined baking tray. Cover and let rise for 20–30 minutes.

4. Bake the Buns

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Brush tops with egg wash (1 beaten egg + 1 tbsp milk).

3. Sprinkle with sesame or nigella seeds, and optionally a pinch of shredded cheese.

4. Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed.

5. Let cool slightly before serving — the filling will be hot!

Tips, Variations & Substitutions

• Make It Spicier: Add chopped green chilies or use hot sauce instead of ketchup.

• Cheese Options: Try spicy pepper jack or creamy gouda for different melt textures.

• No Time for Dough? Use frozen dinner roll dough or biscuit dough as a shortcut.

• Mini Versions: Make bite-sized buns for appetizers or party platters.

• Air Fryer Friendly: Cook at 350°F for 10–12 minutes in batches.

Freezer-Friendly Tip

• Assemble buns and freeze unbaked. When ready to use, thaw, proof for 30–40 mins, then bake as directed.

Serving Ideas & Occasions

Serve these buns:

• With Garlic Sauce or Ranch Dip for extra creaminess

• Next to a Crisp Salad for a balanced lunch

• In Lunchboxes (they stay soft even at room temp)

• As Game Day Snacks with extra hot sauce

• For Iftar, Potlucks, or Picnics

They’re satisfying enough to serve as a full meal or as a show-stopping snack.

Nutritional & Health Notes

Each bun is packed with protein from the chicken and a rich source of fats from the mayo and cheese.

Per bun (1 of 10):

• Calories: ~320

• Protein: ~16g

• Carbs: ~28g

• Fat: ~16g

• Fiber: ~1g

Make it lighter by:

• Using low-fat mayo and cheese

• Using whole wheat flour

• Swapping to Greek yogurt for part of the mayo

FAQs

Q1: Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken?

A1: Yes, it’s a great shortcut and adds lots of flavor. Just shred it finely and mix directly with the filling ingredients.

Q2: Can I make the dough ahead of time?

A2: Yes, you can refrigerate the dough after the first rise. Bring it to room temp before assembling.

Q3: What’s the best cheese to use?

A3: Mozzarella for melt, cheddar for sharpness, or a blend for both. You can also experiment with cream cheese for extra richness.

Q4: Can I make these without an oven?

A4: Yes — use a stovetop pan with a lid over low heat (like bao buns) or air fry them.

Q5: Are these freezer-friendly?

A5: Yes. Freeze after assembling (before baking), or freeze baked and cooled buns for up to 2 months. Reheat at 350°F for 10–12 minutes.

Q6: Can I make this halal/kosher?

A6: Absolutely — just ensure your chicken and ingredients are certified accordingly.

Q7: Can I make a vegetarian version?

A7: Yes — substitute the chicken with sautéed mushrooms, mashed chickpeas, or paneer with the same spicy mayo mix.

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