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Buffalo chicken mozzarella sticks are my ultimate party treat whenever friends come over for game day or a casual hangout. The blend of spicy buffalo flavor and gooey melted cheese all wrapped in a crisp golden coating never fails to please a crowd or satisfy a craving.
The first time I made these, I served them with ranch and blue cheese dip at a movie night. There were zero leftovers and lots of requests for more at the next get-together.
Ingredients
- Shredded chicken: Brings hearty texture and protein; use rotisserie or home-cooked chicken for best flavor
- Buffalo sauce: Provides the signature spicy kick; select a brand with the heat level you prefer
- Mozzarella cheese: Ensures stretchy cheesy goodness; grab a block and shred for best melt
- All-purpose flour: Is key for getting the breading to stick; use fresh flour for the best coating
- Large eggs: Act as a binding layer; pick eggs with rich yellow yolks for better color
- Panko breadcrumbs: Create the crunchiest exterior; always choose fresh panko for maximum crunch
- Cooking oil: Needed for frying; any neutral oil like canola or vegetable works great
- Dipping sauces: Add even more flavor; set out ranch or blue cheese plus extra buffalo sauce
Instructions
- Prepare Buffalo Chicken Mixture:
- In a large bowl thoroughly combine shredded chicken with buffalo sauce and freshly grated mozzarella until evenly coated. Make sure every piece of chicken has some sauce and cheese.
- Shape and Freeze:
- Scoop out generous portions about two tablespoons each. Form them into sticks about three inches long. Arrange them on a parchment-lined baking sheet and place in the freezer for at least thirty minutes so they hold their shape.
- Set Up Breading Station:
- Line up three shallow dishes. Fill one with all-purpose flour. Beat the eggs in another until yolks and whites are fully blended. Add panko breadcrumbs to the final dish and keep everything close for assembly.
- Bread the Sticks:
- Take the frozen chicken sticks and coat each one completely in flour. Dip fully into beaten egg then roll in panko. Gently press panko to adhere and make sure all sides are covered.
- Fry Until Golden:
- Pour enough cooking oil into a large pan to cover the bottom generously. Heat on medium until a breadcrumb dropped in sizzles. Working in small batches carefully place breaded sticks in hot oil. Fry each side for two to four minutes until deep golden brown and crispy.
- Drain and Serve:
- Remove finished sticks with tongs and transfer onto a plate lined with paper towels. Let them drain any excess oil before serving with dipping sauces of your choice.
My favorite part is the combination of spicy buffalo sauce with stretchy mozzarella. My kids go wild for these sticks after soccer practice and I love sneaking a few from their plate.
Storage Tips
Store leftover cooked mozzarella sticks in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They stay crisp for a day but you can revive them in the oven or air fryer at 375 degrees for five to seven minutes. For longer storage freeze unbaked breaded sticks on a tray then transfer to a zip top bag and keep for up to a month.
Ingredient Substitutions
For a lighter option use cooked turkey or even a plant-based chicken alternative. Swap mozzarella with cheddar or Monterey Jack for a new cheesy twist. Gluten-free flour and gluten-free panko work perfectly here.
Serving Suggestions
These are a hit with ranch or blue cheese dressing. Pile them on a board with celery sticks and carrot sticks for a classic buffalo experience. For a meal turn them into sliders with lettuce and tomato on mini buns.
Buffalo chicken mozzarella sticks disappear fast at every gathering—save a few for yourself if you can.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use rotisserie chicken for this dish?
Yes, rotisserie chicken works well for shredding and mixing with buffalo sauce and cheese.
- → What’s the best way to shape the sticks?
Form the chilled mixture firmly into sticks about 3 inches long, then freeze to help maintain shape during frying.
- → How do I prevent the cheese from leaking?
Ensure a proper breading seal by fully coating each stick in flour, egg, and panko before frying.
- → Which dipping sauces pair best?
Classic choices include ranch, blue cheese, or extra buffalo sauce for added flavor.
- → Can these be baked instead of fried?
Yes, bake the breaded sticks at 400°F, turning halfway, until crispy and golden.