Crispy, cheesy, and packed with bold buffalo flavor—these Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Mozzarella Sticks are the perfect snack or appetizer for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a game day gathering or simply craving a fun, handheld treat, these mozzarella sticks will hit the spot! 🧡
Why You’ll Love These Mozzarella Sticks
1. Packed with Flavor
Imagine the tangy kick of buffalo sauce, the creamy gooeyness of mozzarella cheese, and the crispy golden exterior. It’s a flavor explosion in every bite!
2. Quick and Easy
With just 15 minutes of prep and a short 10-minute cook time, you’ll have a crowd-pleaser ready in no time.
3. Healthier Option
Thanks to the air fryer, these mozzarella sticks are lighter than their deep-fried counterparts but just as crunchy and satisfying.
Ingredients
- 1 cup cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works wonders!)
- 1/2 cup buffalo sauce (adjust spice level to taste)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko recommended for extra crunch)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- Cooking spray
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Tools You’ll Need
- Air fryer
- Three shallow bowls for breading
- Mixing bowl
- Tongs (optional but helpful)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken with buffalo sauce. Stir in mozzarella cheese until the mixture is evenly coated.
2. Set Up Your Breading Station
- Bowl 1: All-purpose flour.
- Bowl 2: Beaten eggs.
- Bowl 3: Breadcrumbs mixed with garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
3. Shape the Sticks
Take a small handful of the chicken and cheese mixture and form it into a stick shape. Repeat until all the mixture is used.
4. Bread the Sticks
Dredge each stick in flour, dip into the beaten eggs, and coat thoroughly with the seasoned breadcrumbs.
5. Air Fry
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray.
- Place the mozzarella sticks in the basket, ensuring they don’t touch. Spray the tops lightly with cooking spray.
- Air fry for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
6. Garnish and Serve
Let the sticks cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley and pair with extra buffalo sauce or your favorite dipping sauce.
What to Serve with These Mozzarella Sticks
- Celery sticks and carrot sticks for a classic pairing.
- A side of ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping.
- Add them to a platter with other air-fried appetizers for the ultimate party spread!
Tips for Perfect Mozzarella Sticks
- Prevent Sticking: Use a light coat of cooking spray on the air fryer basket.
- Work Quickly: Form the sticks and bread them quickly to prevent the cheese from softening too much.
- Extra Crunch: Double coat the sticks by repeating the egg and breadcrumb steps.
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Pop them back in the air fryer at 375°F for 3-4 minutes to regain their crunch.
- Freeze: Freeze uncooked sticks on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Air fry directly from frozen, adding 2-3 minutes to the cook time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different cheese?
Yes! While mozzarella provides the best gooey texture, cheddar or pepper jack can add a unique flavor twist.
Are these gluten-free?
Swap out the all-purpose flour and breadcrumbs for gluten-free alternatives to make these gluten-free.
Can I bake these instead of air frying?
Absolutely! Bake them on a parchment-lined baking sheet at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Wrap-Up
These Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Mozzarella Sticks bring together everything you love about comfort food—cheese, spice, and crunch! They’re quick, easy, and perfect for sharing (or not!). Try them out, and don’t forget to share your photos on Pinterest or leave a review below.
Looking for more buffalo-flavored goodness? Check out:
- Buffalo Chicken Dip
- Buffalo Cauliflower Bites
Creative Ways to Customize
These Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Mozzarella Sticks are already packed with flavor, but there’s always room for creativity! Here are some fun variations to try:
1. Add a Cheesy Surprise
Place a small cube of mozzarella or cheddar in the center of the stick before breading. It’ll create an ooey-gooey surprise when you bite in!
2. Spice it Up
Mix some cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes into the buffalo sauce or breadcrumbs for extra heat.
3. Go Low-Carb
Swap breadcrumbs for crushed pork rinds and use almond flour instead of all-purpose flour for a keto-friendly version.
4. Experiment with Sauces
Try drizzling them with honey mustard, barbecue sauce, or a creamy garlic aioli for a unique twist.
Perfect for Any Occasion
- Game Day: Serve them alongside wings and nachos for the ultimate tailgate spread.
- Party Appetizers: These sticks are great for mingling—no utensils required!
- Snack Attack: Whip up a batch for an indulgent midday pick-me-up.
- Kids’ Favorites: Adjust the spice level for a kid-friendly version that they’ll love.
Step It Up: Make It a Meal
Turn these mozzarella sticks into a full-blown meal! Serve them over a bed of greens with some ranch dressing for a buffalo chicken salad. Or, pair them with roasted veggies and sweet potato fries for a complete dinner.
Pro Tips for Success
- Freeze Before Cooking: If you have extra time, freeze the breaded sticks for 15 minutes before air frying. This helps the cheese stay in place and ensures an extra crispy exterior.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Cook the sticks in batches if necessary to allow for even airflow in the air fryer.
Pairing Drinks with Buffalo Chicken Mozzarella Sticks
No great snack is complete without the perfect drink to wash it down! Here are some drink pairing ideas to elevate your experience:
1. Classic Beers
- A cold, crisp lager or pale ale balances the spice of the buffalo sauce beautifully.
- For something bolder, a hoppy IPA enhances the tangy buffalo flavor.
2. Refreshing Cocktails
- Margaritas: The citrusy zing of a margarita complements the heat. Try a spicy jalapeño margarita for an extra kick!
- Bloody Marys: The savory notes of this classic cocktail are a match made in heaven.
3. Non-Alcoholic Options
- A fizzy ginger ale or sparkling water with lime adds refreshing contrast.
- Try a homemade lemonade or iced tea for a kid-friendly pairing.
Make It a Party Platter
Want to go all out? Create a party platter featuring your Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Mozzarella Sticks alongside:
- Vegetable Crudités: Carrot and celery sticks, bell pepper strips, and cucumber slices.
- Dip Trio: Ranch, blue cheese, and a spicy chipotle mayo.
- Air-Fried Sides: Sweet potato wedges or onion rings for variety.
Why Use an Air Fryer?
If you’re new to air frying, this recipe is a great way to start! Here’s why air fryers are a game-changer:
- Healthier Cooking: Get crispy results without loads of oil.
- Quick and Easy Cleanup: Most air fryer baskets are non-stick and dishwasher-safe.
- Versatile: Use it for everything from appetizers to desserts!
Fun Serving Ideas
- Skewers: Thread mozzarella sticks onto skewers for a fun, shareable presentation.
- Buffalo Bowl: Layer the sticks over a bed of coleslaw and drizzle with extra buffalo sauce.
- Stack It: Serve on a plate stacked Jenga-style for a playful display.
Nutrition Information (per serving):
- Calories: 290
- Protein: 17g
- Carbs: 20g
- Fat: 15g
Happy snacking! 🎉
