Copycat Chili’s Nashville Hot Mozzarella Sticks Recipe

If you love a hit of fiery flavor with your gooey cheese, you’re in for a treat! Chili’s Nashville Hot Mozzarella Sticks bring together everything irresistible about classic mozzarella sticks—crisp coating, melty cheese—with the addictive, spicy heat of Nashville hot seasoning. Let’s dig into this copycat recipe and make your snack game unforgettable!

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Ingredients You’ll Need

This irresistible appetizer is all about big flavor and texture, and every ingredient plays its part. You’ll be surprised by how a handful of common pantry staples transforms into something bold, spicy, and outrageously cheesy!

• Part-Skim Mozzarella: The secret to those epic cheese pulls and a creamy center—opt for block mozzarella so you can slice it nice and thick.
• All-Purpose Flour: Helps anchor the seasonings and provides a sturdy base for the crispy coating.
• Kosher Salt: Not just for seasoning—salt sharpens all the other flavors.
• Paprika: Adds warmth and a beautiful deep color to both the breading and spicy oil.
• Cayenne Pepper: Packs the heat and delivers the Nashville kick!
• Large Eggs: Essential for binding the coating and helping those breadcrumbs stick like glue.
• Hot Sauce: Gives the egg wash an extra level of zing.
• Panko Breadcrumbs: These Japanese-style crumbs guarantee the crunchiest crust.
• Canola Oil: For frying—the high smoke point keeps everything golden and crisp, never greasy.
• Light Brown Sugar: Balances out the spice in the Nashville hot oil with a subtle sweetness.
• Chili Powder & Garlic Powder: Layers of savory, deep flavor for the iconic spicy oil.
• Ranch Dressing: That cool, creamy dip is the perfect finish for taming the heat!

Variations

One of the best parts about Chili’s Nashville Hot Mozzarella Sticks is how easily you can tweak them! Whether you want to tame the heat, go gluten-free, or get creative with the cheese, these little changes keep things fresh and fun.

• Swap the Cheese: Try Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or even smoked mozzarella for a new flavor twist.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs (panko style if you can find them) and a gluten-free flour blend to make this recipe celiac-friendly.
• Extra Hot: Double the cayenne and add a dash of ghost pepper powder to the spicy oil for those who crave serious fire!
• Bake Instead: Spray breaded sticks with oil and bake at 425°F until golden for a lighter, oven-baked version—just watch the cheese so it doesn’t ooze out!

How to Make Chili’s Nashville Hot Mozzarella Sticks

Step 1: Cut and Prep the Cheese

Start by slicing your block of part-skim mozzarella into 6 thick rectangles, each about 2 inches wide and ½ inch thick. Resist the urge to make them thinner—thick pieces mean more gooey cheese in every bite, and they’re less likely to melt right out in the fryer.

Step 2: Set Up Your Breading Station

Arrange three shallow bowls: the first with flour, paprika, cayenne, and salt whisked together; the second with eggs and hot sauce mixed thoroughly; the third with panko breadcrumbs. Lining everything up makes the dipping process clean, quick, and organized.

Step 3: Bread the Mozzarella Sticks

Working one at a time, roll each cheese rectangle in the seasoned flour, coat it with the zesty egg mixture (let the excess drip off), and then press firmly into the panko, ensuring all sides are perfectly covered. Place them on a parchment-lined tray so they don’t stick.

Step 4: Freeze Until Firm

For the crispiest sticks and zero cheese leaks, freeze the breaded mozzarella for at least 30 minutes—or up to overnight if you’re prepping ahead. Chilling is essential: it helps the coating bond and prevents the cheese from melting too quickly when fried.

Step 5: Fry the Mozzarella Sticks

Heat about 2 inches of canola oil in a large, heavy skillet to 350°F (use a thermometer for accuracy if you have one). In batches, fry the frozen sticks for 2–3 minutes per side, gently turning to get an even, golden crust. Move to a paper towel-lined plate to drain—and keep that hot oil, you’ll need it for the spicy Nashville finish!

Step 6: Make the Nashville Hot Oil

While the oil’s still hot, whisk together cayenne, brown sugar, paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, and salt in a heatproof bowl. Carefully ladle in about ½ cup of the reserved hot frying oil and stir to blend—the bubbling oil toasts the spices and unlocks that signature Nashville flavor.

Step 7: Finish and Serve

Arrange your fried mozzarella sticks on a wire rack, then generously brush both sides with the Nashville hot oil. Serve them hot and spicy, with a side of cool ranch for dipping—and get ready to watch everyone’s eyes light up!

How to Serve Chili’s Nashville Hot Mozzarella Sticks

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or chives over your fiery, golden Chili’s Nashville Hot Mozzarella Sticks adds a pop of color and a touch of freshness. For a little extra indulgence, a dusting of grated parmesan or a final drizzle of the Nashville hot oil can take things over the top!

Side Dishes

Pair your mozzarella sticks with crisp celery and carrot sticks (the perfect cooling bite!), a tangy slaw, or even homemade potato wedges for a full-on pub-night experience. Don’t forget extra ranch or blue cheese dressing on the side for dipping—the creaminess balances all that fiery flavor!

Creative Ways to Present

Serve your Chili’s Nashville Hot Mozzarella Sticks on a rustic wooden board lined with parchment, like your favorite restaurant, or skewer them for a party platter twist! Individual mini dipping cups or a “build-your-own” stick platter with a variety of dipping sauces (think marinara, spicy honey, or even avocado ranch) is always a hit at gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Any leftover Chili’s Nashville Hot Mozzarella Sticks can be kept in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Be sure to cool them completely before storing to maintain their crispy exterior and melty center.

Freezing

If you find yourself with extras (or want to meal prep!), freeze the breaded, uncooked sticks on a sheet tray until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to a month. Cook straight from frozen—no need to thaw—for the perfect crispy result every time.

Reheating

Reheat mozzarella sticks in a 400°F oven or air fryer for 5–8 minutes until hot and crisp—avoid the microwave, which can leave them soggy and sad. If you made extra Nashville hot oil, brush more on after reheating to revive that spicy kick!

FAQs

Final Thoughts

I can’t say enough about the incredible combination of crunch, spice, and creamy cheese you get with these Chili’s Nashville Hot Mozzarella Sticks. Give them a try the next time you’re craving something bold—your tastebuds (and your friends!) will thank you. Happy snacking!

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