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chili's new mozzarella sticks

Nashville Hot Mozzarella Sticks

The Crispy Chef
These homemade Nashville Hot Mozzarella Sticks take classic cheese sticks to a whole new level with a fiery, crunchy coating. Perfect for game day, parties, or whenever you're craving something indulgent, these spicy cheese sticks are easy to make and can be fried or air-fried. Adjust the heat to your liking and enjoy the perfect balance of gooey cheese and bold Nashville hot seasoning.
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Prep Time 40 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Appetizer
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 220 kcal

Equipment

  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Mixing bowls
  • Whisk
  • Tongs
  • Deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot
  • Slotted spoon
  • Paper towels
  • Basting brush

Ingredients
  

For the Mozzarella Sticks:

  • 16 oz mozzarella cheese sticks or string cheese
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup milk
  • 2 cups panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper

For the Nashville Hot Coating:

  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil or frying oil
  • 4 tbsp cayenne pepper
  • 2 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp salt

Instructions
 

Prep the Cheese

  • Unwrap mozzarella sticks and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
  • Freeze for at least 30 minutes to prevent cheese from melting too quickly during frying.

Set Up the Coating Station

  • In one bowl, mix flour with 1/2 tsp each of salt, garlic powder, and onion powder.
  • In a second bowl, whisk eggs and milk together.
  • In a third bowl, combine panko, remaining seasonings, and mix well.

Bread the Mozzarella Sticks

  • Take out a few frozen cheese sticks at a time.
  • Coat each in flour, then dip in egg mixture, and roll in panko mixture.
  • For extra crispiness, repeat egg and panko steps.
  • Place back on the baking sheet and freeze for at least 1 hour.

Fry the Mozzarella Sticks

  • Heat oil to 350°F (use a thermometer for accuracy).
  • Fry in small batches for 30-45 seconds until golden brown.
  • Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.

Make the Nashville Hot Coating

  • Reserve 1/2 cup of the frying oil.
  • In a heat-safe bowl, mix hot oil, cayenne, brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, and salt.
  • Whisk until smooth.

Apply the Nashville Hot Coating

  • Brush or dip fried mozzarella sticks in the Nashville hot mixture.
  • Serve immediately while warm and gooey.
  • Serving Size: 1 mozzarella stick

Notes

For gluten-free, use cornstarch instead of flour and gluten-free breadcrumbs.
For a dairy-free version, use vegan mozzarella sticks.
Air fry at 390°F for 6-8 minutes instead of frying.

Nutrition

Calories: 220kcalCarbohydrates: 18gProtein: 9gFat: 13gCholesterol: 40mgSodium: 320mgPotassium: 60mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1g
Keyword fried cheese, game day snacks, mozzarella sticks, Nashville hot, spicy appetizers
Tried this recipe?Mention @Thecrispycheff or tag #Thecrispychef!