Name: Buffalo Chicken Mozzarella Sticks: Crunchy Game Day Delight
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 8 min
Total time: 68 min
Ingredients: 2 cups Shredded Chicken (Can use rotisserie or freshly cooked chicken.); 1/2 cup Buffalo Sauce (Adjust for spice preference.); 1 cup Mozzarella Cheese (Use fresh or low-moisture mozzarella.); 1 cup All-Purpose Flour (Helps egg stick.); 2 large Eggs (Essential for binding.); 1 cup Panko Breadcrumbs (Light and crunchy; can be seasoned.); 1 cup Cooking Oil (High smoke point, like canola oil.); 1 cup Dipping Sauces (Serve with blue cheese or ranch.)

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You won’t believe how easy it is to create a deliciously crunchy snack that steals the show at any gathering! These Spicy Buffalo Chicken Mozzarella Sticks are not just an appetizer; they’re a party on a plate. Perfectly customizable to suit your spice preference, they promise to be the star of game day or a fun family night in. With quick prep and simple ingredients, you can whip up a homemade treat that’s far better than anything store-bought. Plus, they’re freezer-friendly, so you can always have a batch ready to fry up and impress your friends. Are you ready to dive into this mouthwatering recipe and elevate your snack game? Let’s get started!

Why are Buffalo Chicken Mozzarella Sticks a must-try?

Crunchy Coating: These sticks feature a perfectly crispy panko crust that contrasts beautifully with the gooey cheese inside.

Customizable Heat: Tailor the spice level to your taste—mild or fiery, it’s completely up to you!

Quick to Prep: With easy steps and minimal cooking time, you can have these delightful snacks ready in no time, perfect for spontaneous gatherings.

Crowd Favorite: Their bold flavors and satisfying textures make them a hit at parties or family movie nights, just like our famous Oven Baked Chicken and Thai Peanut Chicken.

Make Ahead: Freeze them for a future snack attack; they’re ready to fry straight from the freezer for those busy days!

Buffalo Chicken Mozzarella Sticks Ingredients

For the Filling

Shredded Chicken – A convenient base can be made from rotisserie chicken or freshly cooked chicken.
Buffalo Sauce – Adjust for your preferred spice level; Frank’s RedHot is a classic choice!
Mozzarella Cheese – Use fresh or low-moisture mozzarella for that perfect gooeyness.

For the Breading

All-Purpose Flour – This helps the egg stick, ensuring your sticks are evenly coated.
Eggs – Essential for binding the breadcrumbs to the mozzarella sticks.
Panko Breadcrumbs – Light and crunchy; feel free to season them for extra flavor!

For Frying

Cooking Oil – Choose oils with a high smoke point, like canola oil, to achieve that golden crust.

For Dipping (optional)

Dipping Sauces – Serve with blue cheese or ranch to complement the spicy Buffalo Chicken Mozzarella Sticks.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Buffalo Chicken Mozzarella Sticks

Step 1: Prepare Chicken Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, buffalo sauce, and mozzarella cheese. Stir until the chicken is evenly coated in the spicy sauce and the cheese is well distributed. You can adjust the amount of buffalo sauce based on your spice preference. This mixture will form the delicious filling for your Buffalo Chicken Mozzarella Sticks.

Step 2: Form Sticks
Scoop out portions of the chicken mixture and shape them into sticks, roughly 3 inches long. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place the formed sticks on it. Once all the sticks are shaped, cover them and freeze for at least 30 minutes, which will help them hold their shape during frying.

Step 3: Set Up Breading Station
While the sticks are firming up in the freezer, set up your breading station. Arrange three shallow bowls: one with all-purpose flour, another with beaten eggs, and the last filled with panko breadcrumbs. This organized setup will streamline the coating process for your Buffalo Chicken Mozzarella Sticks.

Step 4: Bread the Sticks
Take each frozen stick and first coat it lightly in flour, shaking off any excess. Next, dip it into the beaten eggs, ensuring it’s thoroughly coated, then roll it in the panko breadcrumbs for a crispy finish. Press the breadcrumbs gently onto the stick to adhere well. Repeat until all sticks are breaded.

Step 5: Heat Oil
In a large frying pan, pour enough cooking oil to cover the bottom by about 1/2 inch. Heat the oil over medium heat until it shimmers, indicating it’s hot enough for frying. To test the temperature, drop a small piece of panko into the oil; it should sizzle and bubble immediately, signaling readiness for your Buffalo Chicken Mozzarella Sticks.

Step 6: Fry Sticks
Carefully add the breaded sticks to the hot oil in batches. Fry them for about 2 to 4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Use tongs to gently turn them, ensuring they cook evenly. Keep an eye on the temperature to avoid burning, maintaining that perfect crispy texture.

Step 7: Drain and Serve
Once golden brown, use a slotted spoon to transfer the fried sticks to a plate lined with paper towels, which will absorb excess oil. Allow them to cool slightly before serving. Serve your Buffalo Chicken Mozzarella Sticks hot, accompanied by your favorite dipping sauces like blue cheese or ranch for an extra kick!

Make Ahead Options

These Buffalo Chicken Mozzarella Sticks are a fantastic option for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delicious snack with minimal effort later on! You can prepare the chicken mixture and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before shaping. Additionally, after forming the sticks, freeze them raw for up to 3 months; this will keep them just as tasty when you fry them straight from the freezer. To maintain quality, ensure the sticks are well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to serve, simply heat oil and fry the frozen sticks for about 2 to 4 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy. Enjoy a quick, homemade treat perfect for busy days!

How to Store and Freeze Buffalo Chicken Mozzarella Sticks

Fridge: Store leftover Buffalo Chicken Mozzarella Sticks in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness.

Freezer: Freeze breaded, uncooked sticks on a baking sheet for about an hour, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating: To reheat frozen sticks, bake them directly from the freezer in a preheated oven at 400°F for 10-12 minutes or until heated through and crispy.

What to Serve with Buffalo Chicken Mozzarella Sticks?

Elevate your snack experience with delightful sides and refreshing dips that enhance the bold flavors of these crunchy sticks.

Crispy Celery and Carrots: Fresh veggies provide a crunchy, refreshing counterpart to the spicy sticks, balancing flavors beautifully.
You can’t go wrong pairing these with a variety of dips for an explosion of taste. It’s a classic combo for a reason!
Classic Ranch Dressing: Its cool, creamy texture complements the heat of the buffalo sauce, making each bite even more enjoyable.
Drizzling or dipping adds an extra layer of flavor that guests will love, enhancing the overall snack experience.
Blue Cheese Dressing: A traditional pairing that contrasts nicely with the spice while adding a rich tanginess that brings depth to each bite.
For blue cheese aficionados, this dip elevates your Buffalo Chicken Mozzarella Sticks to gourmet territory.
Homemade Potato Wedges: Crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside—these seasoned wedges make for a hearty and satisfying side that holds up to dipping!
Perfect for soaking up any leftover sauces, they add a delightful heartiness to your meal.
Garlic Parmesan Breadsticks: Soft, warm breadsticks coated in savory garlic butter pair wonderfully, offering a mild flavor to balance the spicy cheese sticks.
Their soft texture contrasts uniquely with the crispy buffalo sticks, creating a dream team on your platter!
Chilled Beer or Cider: A refreshing beverage complements the spices beautifully, cleansing the palate between bites.
Whether you choose a light lager or a crisp cider, it enhances the overall enjoyment of your gathering!

Expert Tips for Buffalo Chicken Mozzarella Sticks

Keep It Chilled: Make sure your chicken mixture is well-chilled before breading. This helps the sticks maintain their shape during frying, avoiding any mishaps.
Avoid Greasy Sticks: Use fresh oil and monitor its temperature, aiming for about 350°F. This ensures the Buffalo Chicken Mozzarella Sticks turn out crispy instead of greasy.
Check Breading Coverage: Ensure each stick is evenly coated in flour, egg, and breadcrumb layers. This guarantees a consistent crunch and prevents the filling from spilling out.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry in batches to maintain the oil temperature. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking and less crispy results, so give them space!
Experiment with Flavors: Customize your Buffalo Chicken Mozzarella Sticks by adding different cheeses or spices to the panko, allowing you to create unique flavor profiles every time.

Buffalo Chicken Mozzarella Sticks Variations

Feel free to get creative and customize these delectable sticks to match your taste and dietary needs!

Cheese Swap: Replace mozzarella with cheddar or pepper jack for a zesty twist. Each cheese offers a unique flavor that can elevate your sticks to the next level.
Herb-Infused Breadcrumbs: Add Italian herbs like oregano or basil to your panko for an aromatic flavor boost. This small change can transform the taste and add an exciting depth.
Buffalo Sauce Variety: Experiment with different brands or homemade sauces to find the perfect heat level for your family. Some might love a smoky chipotle flavor for a unique kick!
Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free cheese to make this recipe vegan-friendly without losing that gooey texture. It’s a great option for those with dietary restrictions who still want to enjoy this delicious snack.
Additional Crunch: Consider adding crushed cornflakes or crushed tortilla chips to the panko mixture for extra crunch. Their unique texture can add a fun surprise with each bite!
Sweet Heat: Pair your sticks with honey or a sweet chili sauce for dipping. This contrasting flavor can be a delightful way to elevate the overall experience.
Spicy Level Adjustments: For those who crave more heat, add sliced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes into the chicken mixture. Lighting it up with some fiery elements makes it exciting for spice lovers!
Try with Sweet Potatoes: For a healthier twist, bake sweet potato fries as a side for a complementary sweetness and crunch. They pair beautifully with the spicy buffalo flavors, balancing the overall dish perfectly.

Feel inspired to concoct your very own signature Buffalo Chicken Mozzarella Sticks? You might also enjoy browsing through our other crowd-pleasers like White Chicken Chili or Keto Chicken Alfredo. Enjoy bringing your culinary creativity to life!

Buffalo Chicken Mozzarella Sticks Recipe FAQs

How ripe should my ingredients be for the best results?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture, make sure your mozzarella is fresh and has a good moisture content—aim for low-moisture mozzarella for that perfect gooeyness. As for the shredded chicken, using rotisserie chicken is convenient and tasty, but if you choose to cook your own, ensure it’s fully cooked and cool before mixing.

What is the best way to store leftovers?
Leftover Buffalo Chicken Mozzarella Sticks can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain their crispiness while reheating, I recommend using an oven set to 400°F, baking them for about 10-12 minutes to regain that crunchy texture.

Can I freeze these sticks, and how?
Very! To freeze your Buffalo Chicken Mozzarella Sticks, first, bread them and lay them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze for about an hour to firm them up, then transfer them to a freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, you can fry them directly from the freezer without thawing!

What should I do if my sticks are falling apart while frying?
If your sticks are having trouble holding together, ensure your chicken mixture is well-chilled before breading. A cold mixture helps maintain its shape while frying. Also, be careful not to overcrowd the pan, as this can drop the oil temperature, making them soggier. Frying in small batches can help achieve a perfect crisp!

Are there any allergy considerations I should keep in mind?
Definitely! If you’re serving these Buffalo Chicken Mozzarella Sticks to guests, be mindful of common allergens. The recipe contains gluten (from flour and breadcrumbs) and dairy (from cheese and eggs). For gluten-free alternatives, you can use almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs. Always double-check the buffalo sauce ingredients for potential allergens as well.

Can I customize the spice level in my Buffalo Chicken Mozzarella Sticks?
Of course! The beauty of these sticks is their customization. If you prefer a milder flavor, use less buffalo sauce or choose a mild variety. For those who love a kick, feel free to add extra hot sauce or even diced jalapeños to the chicken mixture. Tailoring to your taste makes these sticks even more enjoyable!