If you’re a fan of bold, spicy flavors and crispy, cheesy goodness, these Copycat Chili’s Nashville Hot Mozzarella Sticks are about to become your new favorite snack! Inspired by the fiery heat of Nashville Hot Chicken, these mozzarella sticks take the classic appetizer to the next level. They feature perfectly melted cheese encased in a crunchy, golden crust and are coated in a sweet and spicy hot glaze that delivers the perfect kick.
Yield: 8 servings
Equipment:
Frying Pan
Baking Sheet
Parchment Paper
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Freeze Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Ingredients:
Mozzarella Sticks
1 lb block mozzarella cheese, sliced into sticks
1 cup all purpose flour
3 eggs
2 cups panko bread crumbs
1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
Hot Glaze
½ cup unsalted butter, melted
3 tablespoons cayenne pepper
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon chili powder
2 teaspoons hot sauce
Directions:
- Slice the mozzarella block into sticks, about 3-4 inches long and ½ inch thick.
- Set up a dredging station with three shallow bowls: one with panko breadcrumbs, one with beaten eggs, and one with flour mixed with cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Dip each mozzarella stick into the seasoned flour, coating it fully.
- Dip the floured stick into the beaten eggs, then coat it in the panko breadcrumbs.
- Repeat the egg and breadcrumb coating for a double layer.
- Place the coated mozzarella sticks on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze for 20 minutes.
- While the sticks are freezing, prepare the hot glaze by whisking melted butter, cayenne pepper, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, chili powder, and hot sauce in a bowl until smooth. Set aside.
- Heat oil in a frying pan to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the mozzarella sticks in batches for 2-3 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove the sticks from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain.
- Dip each mozzarella stick into the hot glaze while still warm. Let the excess drip off placing on a rack after dipping.
- Serve immediately with ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping. Enjoy!
