Crispy Nashville Hot Mozzarella Sticks (Chili’s Copycat)
Crispy Nashville Hot Mozzarella Sticks are the ultimate snack, combining gooey mozzarella with a fiery, crunchy coating. Perfect for game day or cozy nights in, these delights are sure to impress your friends and family. With just the right balance of spice and cheesy goodness, they’re irresistible when paired with your favorite dipping sauce. Make them at home for a satisfying treat that will have everyone asking for seconds!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x
- Category: Snack
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 lb fresh mozzarella cheese, cut into sticks
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oil for frying (approx. 2 cups)
Instructions
- Prepare your setup by arranging three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with panko breadcrumbs mixed with cayenne pepper and smoked paprika.
- Lightly coat each mozzarella stick in flour, dip into the beaten eggs ensuring full coverage, then roll in the panko breadcrumb mixture until evenly coated.
- Heat oil in a deep skillet over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Fry the mozzarella sticks in batches until golden brown on all sides (about 2–3 minutes).
- Remove from oil using a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Serve hot with marinara sauce or ranch dressing.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 mozzarella sticks (80g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 16g
- Cholesterol: 140mg