Buffalo Chicken Mozzarella Sticks: The Ultimate Game Day Snack

Imagine the perfect marriage of spicy buffalo chicken and gooey mozzarella sticks. A fusion that takes your snacking game to a new level. Whether you’re hosting a game day party or just enjoying a weekend treat, these buffalo chicken mozzarella sticks are sure to wow your taste buds!

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Ingredients

Equipments

Medium-sized mixing bowls
Deep frying pot or deep fryer
Paper towels
Baking sheet
Wire rack
Wooden skewers or toothpicks
Tongs

How to Make Buffalo Chicken Mozzarella Sticks – Step By Step

Step 1: Prepare the Mozzarella Cheese

Start by cutting your mozzarella cheese block into thick sticks, about ½ inch in diameter. This size ensures that the cheese remains intact inside its spicy coating without melting away completely when fried.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Cook the chicken breasts by either boiling or grilling them until fully cooked. Shred the chicken finely using forks. This shredded texture will blend well within the cheese, enhancing every bite with its spicy kick.

Step 3: Make the Buffalo Mixture

In a bowl, combine shredded chicken with cream cheese, buffalo sauce, and a dash of salt. Mix thoroughly until the chicken absorbs all the flavors, forming a cohesive mixture.

Step 4: Shape the Mozzarella Sticks

Take a mozzarella stick, press the chicken mixture around it tightly, shaping a cohesive blend that doesn’t fall apart. Secure the structure using a skewer or toothpick if necessary.

Step 5: Prepare the Breading Station

Beat eggs in one bowl, and in another, prepare a mixture of breadcrumbs seasoned with paprika and garlic powder. The third bowl contains plain flour. This setup will ensure a perfect coating during frying.

Step 6: Coat the Sticks

Roll each chicken-filled mozzarella stick in flour, followed by a dip in the whisked eggs. Ensure they’re well-covered before rolling them in seasoned breadcrumbs for that delightful crunch.

Step 7: Deep Fry

Heat oil in a deep pot to 350°F (175°C). Gently place coated sticks into the hot oil and fry until golden brown and crunchy, usually about 3-4 minutes. It’s essential to maintain this temperature to achieve that perfect golden finish.

Step 8: Drain and Cool

Transfer the fried sticks onto a wire rack set over a baking sheet lined with paper towels. This setup allows excess oil to drain efficiently, ensuring they’re crispy without excess grease.

How to Serve Buffalo Chicken Mozzarella Sticks

Serve these delicious bites with celery sticks and a side of ranch or blue cheese dressing. The crispiness of the celery and the creamy dressing beautifully complement the spicy and cheesy flavors of the mozzarella sticks.

Recipe Success Tips & Suggestions

For a spicier kick, consider adding cayenne pepper to the chicken mixture. If you prefer a milder flavor, opt for less buffalo sauce and more cream cheese. Remember, the key to success is ensuring each mozzarella stick is tightly wrapped with the chicken mixture to prevent leaking during frying.

High-Protein Version: Boost Your Snack Game

If you’re looking to up the protein content, substitute the breadcrumbs with crushed pork rinds. Increasing chicken breast quantity will also provide more protein, making this snack a great post-workout treat!

Low-Carb, High-Fat Perfection: How to Enjoy Guilt-Free

For a ketogenic twist, replace the all-purpose flour with almond flour, and use a high-fat cheese variety. Fried in full-fat coconut oil, these sticks become a low-carb indulgence, ideal for keto enthusiasts.

Storage Instructions

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to two days. Reheat them in an oven preheated to 375°F until they’re crisp and warm; avoid the microwave as it can make them soggy. For longer storage, freeze them on a baking sheet before transferring them into freezer bags and store for up to three months.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought buffalo sauce? Absolutely, just ensure the sauce aligns with your preferred level of spiciness.

What’s the best way to prevent them from falling apart? Ensuring the chicken mixture is firm enough with the cream cheese helps maintain the structure. Additionally, a secure breading and careful handling during frying are crucial.

Can I make these in an air fryer? Yes, air fry at 370°F for 8-10 minutes, or until golden brown. It’s a healthier alternative with less oil consumption.

Are there vegetarian alternatives? Swap chicken with jackfruit and adjust seasoning to retain the buffalo flavor.

Final Words: Try This Quick and Tasty Snack

Buffalo Chicken Mozzarella Sticks bring together the beloved flavors of two amazing snacks. Try them out for your next gathering, and don’t forget to share your thoughts in the comments or share this recipe with friends!