Chicken Parm Stuffed Mozzarella Sticks

• 12 mozzarella sticks
• 1 cup cooked, shredded chicken
• 1/2 cup marinara sauce, divided
• 1 cup Italian seasoned breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Vegetable oil, for frying

Steps

1. 1 Preheat oven to 200°F to keep cooked sticks warm.
2. 2 Mix shredded chicken with 2 tablespoons of marinara sauce.
3. 3 Stuff each mozzarella stick with the chicken mixture.
4. 4 Combine breadcrumbs and Parmesan in a bowl.
5. 5 Dip each stuffed stick in beaten egg, then coat with the breadcrumb mixture.
6. 6 Heat oil in a deep skillet over medium heat.
7. 7 Fry coated sticks in batches until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per batch.
8. 8 Drain on paper towels.
9. 9 Keep warm in the oven while frying remaining batches.
10. 10 Serve hot with remaining marinara sauce for dipping.

Equipment

• Deep skillet
• Slotted spoon
• Paper towels
• Baking sheet

Variations

• Add diced bell peppers or spinach to the chicken mixture for extra flavor and texture.

Substitutions

• Substitute mozzarella sticks with fresh mozzarella cheese rolled in parchment paper for a homemade touch.
• Use panko breadcrumbs for an even crispier coating.

Pairings

• A crisp white wine or an Italian soda makes a refreshing drink pairing.
• Serve with a zesty Caesar salad for a complete meal.

Nutrition

Tips

• Make sure the mozzarella sticks are completely sealed to prevent cheese from leaking.
• For a lighter option, bake the sticks at 400°F for 12-15 minutes instead of frying.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for best results.

Freezing: These freeze well! Place uncooked coated sticks on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. Fry directly from frozen, adding a minute to cook time.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a side of garlic bread and a fresh green salad.
• Perfect as a game day snack or appetizer at parties.

FAQ