Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Mozzarella Sticks

Introduction

Craving a snack that’s crispy, cheesy, spicy, and incredibly satisfying? These Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Mozzarella Sticks are the perfect fusion of tangy buffalo flavors and melty mozzarella cheese. Whether you’re hosting a party, watching a game, or just treating yourself, this recipe will be a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

For the Filling:

• 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works great!)
• 1/2 cup buffalo sauce (adjust to taste)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened

For the Coating:

• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (Panko for extra crunch!)
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika

Additional:

• Cooking spray
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Mix the Filling:

1. In a mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, buffalo sauce, mozzarella cheese, and softened cream cheese. Mix until creamy and well combined.

Set Up the Breading Station:

1. Prepare three bowls:
   • Bowl 1: All-purpose flour.
   • Bowl 2: Beaten eggs.
   • Bowl 3: Breadcrumbs mixed with garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.

Shape the Sticks:

1. Take a spoonful of the chicken mixture and shape it into a stick about 2-3 inches long. If the mixture is too sticky, chill it in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes before shaping.

Coat the Sticks:

1. Dip each stick first into the flour, then into the beaten egg, and finally coat it in the seasoned breadcrumbs. Press gently to ensure the breadcrumbs adhere.

Preheat the Air Fryer:

1. Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and lightly spray the basket with cooking spray.

Air Fry the Sticks:

1. Arrange the mozzarella sticks in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they don’t touch each other. Lightly spray the tops with cooking spray.
2. Air fry for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.

Garnish and Serve:

1. Let the mozzarella sticks cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with ranch dressing or extra buffalo sauce for dipping.

History

The origin of mozzarella sticks can be traced back to medieval France, where fried cheese was a popular dish. The American twist of incorporating buffalo chicken flavors has made this snack a modern favorite, especially for game days and parties.

Benefits

• High protein content from chicken and cheese.
• Lower in fat compared to traditional deep-fried snacks.
• A quick and easy snack perfect for gatherings.

Nutrition

Each serving of these mozzarella sticks contains approximately:

• Calories: 210
• Protein: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fat: 12g
• Fiber: 1g

Conclusion

Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Mozzarella Sticks combine bold flavors, cheesy goodness, and a crispy texture, making them a standout appetizer. Whether you’re enjoying them solo or with a group, these snacks are sure to delight your taste buds.

Lovers

This recipe is loved by snack enthusiasts, party hosts, and anyone who enjoys bold, spicy flavors paired with creamy cheese. Perfect for sharing with family and friends!