Chicken Nugget Mozzarella Sticks

Ingredients

• 1 lb chicken thighs (boneless, skinless)
• 1 egg
• 1 tsp salt
• 0.25 tsp cayenne pepper
• 6 mozzarella sticks (halved)
• 0.5 cup cornstarch (for coating)
• oil (for frying)
• 1 cup self rising flour
• 1.5 cup cold water
• 2 tsp favorite seasoning mix
• 1 tbsp parsley (chopped)

Steps

1. 1

   Place the chicken thighs, egg, salt, and cayenne pepper into a food processor.

2. 2

   Blend the chicken mixture for 30 seconds until it is completely smooth.

3. 3

   Cut the mozzarella sticks in half.

4. 4

   Wrap the blended chicken mixture around each mozzarella stick half, ensuring the cheese is completely enclosed.

5. 5

   Coat the chicken-wrapped sticks in cornstarch.

6. 6

   Place the sticks in the freezer for 1 hour to allow them to firm up.

7. 7

   In a mixing bowl, combine the self-rising flour, cold water, seasoning mix, and chopped parsley.

8. 8

   Whisk until completely mixed; the batter should be slightly loose.

9. 9

   Heat frying oil to 390°F (200°C).

10. 10

    Dunk each chilled chicken stick into the batter, shaking off any excess.

11. 11

    Deep fry the sticks for 4-5 minutes until golden and crispy.

12. 12

    Remove from the oil and place on paper towels to absorb excess oil.

13. 13

    Let the sticks rest for 2 minutes before serving to avoid burns and to ensure the cheese is perfectly melted.

Notes

Ensure the chicken mixture completely seals the cheese to prevent it from leaking out during frying. Resting for 2 minutes is crucial for the internal temperature to stabilize.

Nutrition per serving

• snack
• appetizer
• fried
• chicken
• cheese
• comfort food
• party food