Introduction: These Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Mozzarella Sticks are the perfect combination of crispy, spicy, and cheesy! With a crunchy outside and a gooey, melty mozzarella center, these are ideal for a fun appetizer or a game-day snack. The air fryer makes them healthier without sacrificing that irresistible crunch. A spicy buffalo kick gives them extra flavor, making them a must-try for anyone who loves bold, cheesy snacks!
Ingredients:
2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded (about 2 chicken breasts)
1/2 cup buffalo sauce (adjust to your heat preference)
1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko breadcrumbs work great for extra crunch)
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1 egg, beaten
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Prep the filling: In a medium bowl, combine the shredded chicken, buffalo sauce, cream cheese, mozzarella cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is well mixed.
Form the sticks: Take small portions of the chicken mixture and form them into small, thick logs or “sticks.” You can use your hands or a spoon to shape them. Aim for about 2-3 inches long.
Coat the sticks: In a shallow dish, mix the breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese. Dip each chicken stick into the beaten egg and then roll it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure it sticks.
Preheat the air fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3 minutes.
Cook the sticks: Arrange the breaded chicken sticks in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they’re not touching each other. Air fry for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside.
Serve: Once cooked, garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve with extra buffalo sauce or ranch dressing for dipping.
Description:
These Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Mozzarella Sticks are crispy on the outside with a creamy, cheesy filling that blends perfectly with the spicy buffalo sauce. The air fryer gives them the crunch you crave while keeping them healthier than traditional frying. These bites are ideal for any occasion—whether you’re hosting a party or just in the mood for a tasty snack, they’re guaranteed to satisfy.
Tips:
Make-ahead: You can prepare the chicken mixture and shape the sticks ahead of time. Store them in the fridge for up to 2 hours before air frying.
Freezing: For an even easier snack, freeze the unbreaded sticks on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a zip-top bag. Air fry from frozen, adding an extra 3-5 minutes to the cooking time.
Cheese Variety: If you prefer, swap the mozzarella for a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack for a different cheese profile.
Buffalo Sauce: If you like extra heat, add a little more buffalo sauce to the chicken mixture or drizzle more on top before serving.
Variations:
Veggie Version: Substitute the chicken with finely chopped cauliflower or another veggie to make a vegetarian version of these sticks.
Sweet and Spicy: Combine buffalo sauce with a little honey or brown sugar to make a sweet and spicy glaze.
BBQ Chicken Mozzarella Sticks: Swap the buffalo sauce for BBQ sauce for a smoky twist on the flavor.
Corrections:
If the mixture is too wet or loose to form into sticks, add more breadcrumbs or a little more cream cheese to help bind it together.
Ensure the chicken is finely shredded to avoid large chunks, which could make the sticks difficult to shape.
Enjoy:
These Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Mozzarella Sticks are perfect for a game day snack, a family movie night, or any time you’re craving something cheesy and flavorful. They’re so good that you’ll be going back for more—and with the air fryer’s efficiency, you won’t mind making a second batch! Enjoy!