Chili's Nashville Hot Mozzarella Sticks

Craving that Chili's-style mozzarella stick crunch with their signature Nashville twist? These golden, gooey sticks bring the heat and the nostalgia—crispy on the outside, molten in the middle, and drenched in a buttery hot-honey glaze that’s downright addictive. Air fried to perfection in the 4-Slice InstantHeat™ Mini Air Fryer Toaster Oven, they’re the perfect appetizer for game night, date night, or anytime your snack cravings come calling.

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Cut each mozzarella slice into 3 even pieces for a total of 6 sticks.
2. On one plate, mix together panko, paprika, garlic powder, ranch dressing mix, ½ teaspoon of salt, and ½ teaspoon of black pepper. On another plate, combine flour with ½ teaspoon of salt and ½ teaspoon of black pepper. In a bowl, whisk the eggs with the remaining salt and pepper.
3. Dredge each mozzarella stick in flour, dip in the eggs, then coat in the panko mixture. Repeat the egg and panko steps a second time for each stick—this double coat keeps the cheese from oozing out during cooking.
4. Arrange coated sticks on a parchment-lined tray or plate. Freeze for 20 minutes to help them hold shape while air frying.
5. Spray the cheese sticks lightly with cooking oil. Place them in the air fryer basket (don’t crowd) and position the crumb tray below. Air Fry for 6 minutes at 450°F / 232°C , flip, then cook another 6 minutes until golden and crispy.
6. While the sticks cook, melt butter in a small pot or microwave-safe bowl. In another bowl, combine brown sugar, honey, smoked paprika, and hot sauce. Pour in the hot butter and whisk until smooth and glossy.
7. Toss the hot mozzarella sticks in the Nashville sauce until coated. Serve warm with ranch for dipping... and maybe a cold drink to cool things down. Enjoy!