Spicy Buffalo Chicken Mozzarella Sticks

Introduction

Did you know that 85% of Americans love spicy foods? If you fall into this tantalizing category, you’re likely always on the hunt for more ways to satisfy your cravings. This is where our Spicy Buffalo Chicken Mozzarella Sticks come into play! Combining the zing of Buffalo sauce with the gooey goodness of mozzarella, this recipe is not only indulgent but also surprisingly easy to make. Get ready to impress your friends with this delightful twist on a classic snack!

Ingredients List

Here’s what you’ll need to create these flavorful Spicy Buffalo Chicken Mozzarella Sticks:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup Buffalo sauce (adjust based on spice preference)
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko for extra crunch)
• 2 eggs, beaten
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• Cooking oil for frying
• Optional: diced green onions for garnish

Substitutions: You can swap chicken for shredded rotisserie chicken for quicker prep, or use vegan cheese to cater to a dairy-free diet.

Timing

This scrumptious recipe takes about 30 minutes to prepare and another 15 minutes to cook, totaling just 45 minutes. Remarkably, this is nearly 30% less time than many traditional mozzarella stick recipes!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken with ½ cup of Buffalo sauce. Stir thoroughly until the chicken is evenly coated. This step is crucial for ensuring every bite packs a flavorful punch.

Step 2: Form the Sticks

Take a small handful of the chicken mixture and press it around a mozzarella stick, making sure to thoroughly cover it. Repeat the process until all mozzarella sticks are wrapped.

Step 3: Breading Process

Set up a breading station with three bowls: one with flour, another with beaten eggs, and the last one with breadcrumbs. First, roll each chicken-coated mozzarella stick in the flour, then dip it in the egg, and finally, coat it well in breadcrumbs. This tri-layer breading adds to the crispy texture!

Step 4: Frying

In a large skillet, heat about ½ inch of cooking oil over medium heat. Once hot, fry the breaded mozzarella sticks until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side. Be sure not to overcrowd the skillet to maintain that perfect crunch!

Step 5: Serving

Once fried, place the mozzarella sticks on a paper towel to drain excess oil. Serve hot with a side of additional Buffalo sauce for dipping. For an extra touch, sprinkle diced green onions on top.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick overview of the nutritional breakdown per serving (approx. 4 sticks):

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 21g
• Fat: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sodium: 900mg

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

For a healthier twist, consider these substitutions:

• Use whole wheat breadcrumbs instead of regular to increase fiber content.
• Try air-frying instead of deep-frying for much less oil usage.
• Substitute chicken with shredded vegetables like zucchini or eggplant for a vegetarian option.

Serving Suggestions

These Spicy Buffalo Chicken Mozzarella Sticks are wonderfully versatile! Serve them alongside a fresh salad, or pair them with celery and carrot sticks for a classic combination. For a gourmet take, drizzle with a creamy ranch dressing or a yogurt-based dip to balance the spice. They’re also perfect for game day snacking or as an enticing appetizer at parties!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not fully cooking the chicken before shredding can lead to an undercooked result.
• Overcrowding the frying pan can cause sticks to steam rather than fry, leading to soggy results.
• Skipping the cooling step post-frying will result in lost crispiness!

Storing Tips for the Recipe

To keep your leftovers fresh, it’s best to store the mozzarella sticks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, use an oven or air fryer to regain that crispy texture, avoiding the microwave which can make them soggy.

Conclusion

In just 45 minutes, you can delight your palate with homemade Spicy Buffalo Chicken Mozzarella Sticks that are bursting with flavor. Give this recipe a try today—let us know how they turn out in the comments, and don’t forget to subscribe for more delicious ideas!

FAQs

Can I make these mozzarella sticks in advance?

Yes! You can prepare and bread the sticks ahead of time. Just freeze them uncoated and fry them directly from frozen when ready to eat.

How spicy are these mozzarella sticks?

The level of spiciness really depends on how much Buffalo sauce you use. Start with the recommended amount and adjust according to your heat tolerance.

Can I bake these instead of frying?

Absolutely! If you’d like a healthier option, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through. Just spray them lightly with cooking spray to encourage browning.

What dipping sauces pair well with these sticks?

Buffalo sauce, ranch dressing, or blue cheese dressing are classic favorites. You can also try honey mustard or a sriracha mayo for an extra kick!

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