Buffalo Chicken Mozzarella Sticks Recipe
If you’re a fan of bold flavors and crispy delights, this Buffalo Chicken Mozzarella Sticks Recipe is going to become your new obsession. Imagine tender shredded chicken tossed in spicy buffalo sauce, melded perfectly with gooey mozzarella cheese, then coated in a crunchy panko crust and fried until golden perfection. It’s the ultimate snack or appetizer that combines the irresistible tang of buffalo chicken with the melty pull of mozzarella, delivering bite after satisfying bite. Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or just craving something special, these sticks bring warmth, spice, and comfort in one crispy package.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients will make your Buffalo Chicken Mozzarella Sticks Recipe not only thrilling to taste but also simple to pull together. Each element plays a crucial role—spicy buffalo sauce kicks up the heat, mozzarella creates that wonderful melt, and the seasoned panko crumb coating delivers crunch and flavor. Here’s everything you’ll want handy before diving in.
- 1 cup cooked shredded chicken: The hearty, protein-packed base that’s perfect for soaking up the buffalo flavor.
- 1/2 cup buffalo sauce: Adds that signature tangy kick; feel free to adjust to your preferred spice level.
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded: Essential for that gooey, melty texture that’s pure comfort in every bite.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour: Helps the coating stick and adds structure to each stick.
- 2 large eggs, beaten: Acts as the glue for the breadcrumb coating, ensuring a crispy crust.
- 2 cups panko breadcrumbs: Perfect for achieving an extra crunchy texture that contrasts with the soft interior.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds subtle aromatic depth to the crust seasoning.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Infuses a mild savory flavor that complements the buffalo sauce.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances and enhances all the flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper: Adds a gentle heat and complexity to the seasoning.
- Cooking oil (for frying): For frying the sticks to a golden crispy perfection.
- Blue cheese or ranch dressing: Classic dippers that cool down the heat and add creamy goodness.
How to Make Buffalo Chicken Mozzarella Sticks Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Mixture
Start by combining shredded chicken with buffalo sauce in a mixing bowl, adjusting the heat to your liking. Next, stir in shredded mozzarella cheese until everything is well combined. This mixture forms the soft, flavorful core of your buffalo chicken mozzarella sticks, striking the perfect balance between spicy and cheesy.
Step 2: Form the Cheese Sticks
Grab about 2 tablespoons of the buffalo chicken mixture and shape it into a stick roughly the size of a traditional mozzarella stick. Place each on a lined baking sheet and continue with the rest. Freezing these sticks for at least 30 minutes is an important step to help them hold their shape while frying.
Step 3: Set Up Breading Station
Create a simple three-bowl setup: one with all-purpose flour, one with beaten eggs, and the last with seasoned panko breadcrumbs mixed with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. This assembly line method ensures an even, flavorful coating on every stick.
Step 4: Bread the Sticks
Remove the chilled buffalo chicken sticks from the freezer. First, coat each stick with flour, shaking off excess. Then dip it into the beaten eggs, and finally press it into the panko breadcrumb mixture. Make sure the coating is nice and even to get that irresistible crunch.
Step 5: Heat the Oil and Fry
In a large skillet, pour in enough oil to create a one-inch depth and heat it over medium. To test readiness, drop a breadcrumb into the oil; if it sizzles, it’s ready. Fry the breaded sticks in batches, avoiding overcrowding, for 3-4 minutes per side or until beautifully golden and crispy.
Step 6: Drain and Serve
Use a slotted spoon to transfer the fried sticks onto a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve them piping hot alongside blue cheese or ranch dressing, inviting everyone to dunk and savor each crunchy, spicy bite.
How to Serve Buffalo Chicken Mozzarella Sticks Recipe
Garnishes
Adding some fresh garnishes can elevate your Buffalo Chicken Mozzarella Sticks Recipe even further. Try sprinkling chopped fresh parsley or chives on top for a pop of color and a touch of herbal brightness that cuts through the richness beautifully.
Side Dishes
Pair these sticks with crunchy celery sticks or cooling cucumber slices to balance the spicy heat. A fresh leafy green salad lightly dressed with lemon vinaigrette can also be a refreshing side, keeping the whole experience light and vibrant.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the buffalo chicken mozzarella sticks on a wooden platter with mini bowls of various dipping sauces like spicy ranch, blue cheese, or even honey mustard. You could also skewer them on toothpicks for easy, party-friendly finger food that’s sure to impress your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers from your Buffalo Chicken Mozzarella Sticks Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. This keeps the sticks fresh while allowing the flavors to mellow and blend even more.
Freezing
For longer storage, freeze the uncooked, breaded sticks on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to one month and fried straight from frozen—making busy days handier with a delicious snack ready to go.
Reheating
To reheat and maintain their crispiness, bake leftover or frozen sticks in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-12 minutes. Avoid microwaving to preserve the crunchy texture and avoid sogginess.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese instead of mozzarella?
Absolutely! While mozzarella provides that classic melty texture, feel free to experiment with cheeses like cheddar or pepper jack for a different flavor profile and a little extra kick.
Is it okay to bake these instead of frying?
You can definitely bake the sticks for a lighter version. Place them on a greased baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through to get an even golden crust.
How spicy is this Buffalo Chicken Mozzarella Sticks Recipe?
The heat level depends on the buffalo sauce you use and how much you add. Start with half a cup and adjust to taste—add more for bold heat or reduce for milder spice.
Can I prepare the chicken mixture in advance?
Yes! You can mix the shredded chicken, buffalo sauce, and mozzarella a day ahead and refrigerate it. Just shape and fry the sticks when you’re ready to serve for best freshness and texture.
What’s a good dipping sauce pairing?
Classic blue cheese or ranch dressing are the perfect creamy companions to cool down the spicy buffalo flavors. You can also try a simple garlic aioli or honey mustard for some variety.
Final Thoughts
There’s something incredibly satisfying about biting into these golden, crispy Buffalo Chicken Mozzarella Sticks Recipe snacks—spicy, cheesy, and completely crave-worthy. Whether you’re making them for game day, a casual night in, or to wow your friends, they deliver a fantastic burst of flavor and fun. So grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy every melty, crunchy bite of this delicious crowd-pleaser!
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Buffalo Chicken Mozzarella Sticks Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings (approximately 12 sticks) 1x
- Diet: Halal
Description
Crispy and spicy Buffalo Chicken Mozzarella Sticks combine shredded chicken, buffalo sauce, and gooey mozzarella cheese, coated in seasoned panko breadcrumbs and fried to golden perfection. Served with blue cheese or ranch dressing, they make a perfect appetizer or snack for game day or a party.
Ingredients
Chicken Mixture
- 1 cup cooked shredded chicken
- 1/2 cup buffalo sauce (more to taste)
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
Breading Station
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 2 cups panko breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
Other
- Cooking oil (for frying)
- Blue cheese or ranch dressing (for serving)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken with buffalo sauce, adjusting the amount to your preferred spice level. Add the shredded mozzarella cheese and mix until fully combined.
- Form the Cheese Sticks: Take about 2 tablespoons of the buffalo chicken mixture and shape it into stick shapes roughly the size of mozzarella sticks. Place them on a lined baking sheet and freeze for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
- Set Up Breading Station: Prepare three shallow bowls—one with flour, the second with beaten eggs, and the third with a mixture of panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Bread the Sticks: Remove the frozen sticks from the freezer. Coat each stick first in flour, shaking off the excess, then dip in beaten eggs, and finally coat thoroughly with the panko breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
- Heat the Oil: In a large frying pan, heat about 1 inch of cooking oil over medium heat. Test readiness by dropping in a breadcrumb; if it sizzles, the oil is hot enough.
- Fry the Mozzarella Sticks: Carefully place the breaded buffalo chicken sticks into the hot oil in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy.
- Drain and Serve: Use a slotted spoon to transfer the sticks to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve hot with blue cheese or ranch dressing for dipping.
Notes
- Freezing the formed sticks before breading helps maintain their shape during frying.
- Adjust the buffalo sauce quantity to control the heat level.
- Use a thermometer to maintain oil temperature around 350°F for best frying results.
- For a healthier version, consider baking the sticks at 425°F for 15-20 minutes until golden.
- Leftover sticks can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days and reheated in an oven or air fryer.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 sticks
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 750 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0.2 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 18 g
- Cholesterol: 85 mg
Keywords: buffalo chicken mozzarella sticks, buffalo chicken appetizer, fried mozzarella sticks, buffalo snack, game day appetizer
