Cheesy Chicken-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks

These Cheesy Chicken-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks offer a delightful twist on traditional mozzarella sticks. Encased in tender chicken cutlets and coated in flavorful breadcrumbs, they deliver a golden, crispy exterior and gooey cheese center—perfect as an appetizer, snack, or game-day treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Crispy on the outside, melted cheese on the inside—these mozzarella sticks wrapped in chicken provide a satisfying combination of textures and flavors. With a seasoned breadcrumb coating and quick frying time, they’re easy to prepare and impressive to serve. Pair them with marinara or ranch dip to complete the experience.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 8 mozzarella cheese sticks

• 8 thin slices of chicken breast cutlets

• 1 cup all-purpose flour

• 2 eggs, beaten

• 1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs

• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

• ½ teaspoon paprika

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

• Oil, for frying

directions

1. Wrap the Cheese
   Place a mozzarella stick at the edge of each chicken slice. Roll tightly to enclose the cheese, and secure with a toothpick if needed.

2. Prepare the Breading Station
   Set up three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with seasoned breadcrumbs evenly mixed with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.

3. Bread the Wrapped Mozzarella
   Dredge each chicken-wrapped stick first in flour, then dip in beaten egg, and finally coat thoroughly with the breadcrumb mixture.

4. Fry Until Golden
   Heat oil in a deep skillet over medium heat. Carefully add the breaded sticks and fry for 3–4 minutes per side, or until golden and crispy.

5. Drain and Garnish
   Remove from the skillet and drain on paper towels. Garnish with chopped parsley.

6. Serve Warm
   Serve hot alongside marinara sauce or ranch dressing for dipping.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4 (2 sticks per person)
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Approximate calories per serving: 265 kcal

Variations

• Baked Version: Preheat oven to 400 °F (200 °C). Bake on a lined baking sheet for 15–18 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and heated through.

• Air-Fryer Option: Air-fry at 375 °F (190 °C) for 10–12 minutes, turning halfway, for a lower-oil alternative.

• Seasoned Flour Mix: Add Italian seasoning or cayenne powder to the flour for more flavor.

• Fill with Flavored Cheese Sticks: Use jalapeño or garlic-flavored mozzarella sticks for a twist.

• Spicy Coating: Mix ¼ teaspoon chili powder into breadcrumbs for a kick.

storage/reheating

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat:

• Oven: Bake at 350 °F (175 °C) for 8–10 minutes until hot and crispy.

• Air-Fryer: Reheat at 350 °F (175 °C) for 5–7 minutes.

• Microwave (not recommended): The cheese may become overly soft and lose crispness.

Avoid freezing, as the breading may become soggy upon thawing and reheating.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breast?

Yes, thinly sliced chicken thighs work well and offer a slightly richer flavor.

Do I need to secure the wraps?

If the chicken slice fully encloses the cheese, toothpicks are optional, but helpful for stability.

What oil is best for frying?

Use high-smoke-point oils like vegetable, canola, or peanut oil for even frying.

How can I prevent the cheese from leaking out?

Ensure tight rolling and sealing of the chicken around the mozzarella, and fry at moderate heat so the breading sets quickly.

Can I bake these instead of frying?

Yes, see the variation section for baking instructions.

Can I make these ahead and refrigerate?

Yes, assemble and refrigerate for up to 4 hours before breading and frying.

Can I freeze them?

Freezing isn’t ideal due to potential sogginess, but you can freeze pre-breaded sticks and bake straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes.

What dips pair well?

Marinara sauce, garlic ranch, or spicy aioli complement these perfectly.

Are these gluten-free?

Not as written. Substitute with gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs to make the recipe gluten-free.

How do I avoid greasy sticks?

Maintain oil temperature, drain on paper towels immediately, and don’t overcrowd the skillet to prevent temperature drop.

Conclusion

Cheesy Chicken-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks are an irresistible blend of melty cheese and lightly seasoned chicken, coated in a crisp crust. Quick to prepare and baked or fried to perfection, they’re ideal as a party appetizer, snack, or indulgent finger food. Serve them hot with your favorite dip and enjoy the gooey, savory delight in every bite.

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