Copycat Dave’s Hot Chicken Mozzarella Sticks Recipe

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I couldn’t resist experimenting with this incredible appetizer, so I set out to create a homemade version of Dave’s Hot Chicken Mozzarella Sticks that captures all the bold flavors we know and love.

How to make Dave’s Hot Chicken Mozzarella Sticks

Dave’s Hot Chicken Mozzarella Sticks (often called “Hot Mozz” or mozzarella planks) are a newer menu item from Dave’s Hot Chicken that puts a spicy twist on classic mozzarella sticks.

Ingredients

For the Mozzarella Sticks

• 12 whole mozzarella sticks (string cheese), low‑moisture, part‑skim
• 1 cup all‑purpose flour
• 3 large eggs
• 2 tbsp milk or buttermilk
• 2 cups seasoned breadcrumbs
• ½ cup finely ground cornflakes or extra panko (optional, for extra crispiness)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional but recommended)

For the “Dave’s Hot Chicken”–Style Seasoning

• 2 tbsp paprika (preferably smoked or sweet)
• 1–2 tbsp cayenne pepper
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp ground black pepper
• 1 tsp brown sugar (helps mimic that slightly sweet Nashville hot vibe)
• 1 tsp salt (or to taste)

For the Hot Oil / Butter Glaze (optional, more authentic)

• ¼ cup neutral oil (canola, vegetable, or peanut oil)
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1–2 tbsp of your prepared dry seasoning blend (above)

For Frying

• Neutral frying oil (canola, vegetable, peanut)
• Enough to fill a pot or deep pan 2–3 inches deep
• Dipping Sauces (optional)
• Ranch dressing
• Garlic aioli
• Spicy mayo (mayo + hot sauce + a pinch of your seasoning blend)
• Marinara sauce (for classic mozzarella stick vibes)

Instructions

1. Prep the Cheese

1. Unwrap the mozzarella sticks (string cheese).
2. If you prefer smaller bites, cut each stick in half crosswise.
3. Place them on a plate, cover, and freeze for at least 1–2 hours, or until very firm.
4. This step is crucial. If the cheese is not well‑frozen, it will leak and ooze out before the coating crisps.

2. Prepare the Seasoning

1. In a small bowl, whisk together all the dry seasoning ingredients listed above.
2. Taste a pinch (yes, just dry on your tongue) to gauge heat and salt.
   • Want it mild? Reduce cayenne to 1 tsp.
   • Want it “Dave’s Reaper” level? Go closer to 2 tbsp, and optionally add a pinch of chili flakes or a touch of ghost pepper powder if you’re comfortable with very high heat.
3. Set this seasoning blend aside.

3. Set Up the Breading Station

1. You’ll need three shallow bowls or dishes:
   • Bowl 1 – Flour
     • Add 1 cup all‑purpose flour.
     • Mix in 1 tsp of the seasoning blend for a lightly spiced base.
   • Bowl 2 – Egg Wash
     • Whisk together:
       • 3 large eggs
       • 2 tbsp milk or buttermilk
       • Optionally add ½ tsp of the seasoning blend into the eggs for extra flavor.
   • Bowl 3 – Breadcrumb Coating
     • Combine:
       • 2 cups breadcrumbs (or breadcrumbs + panko mix)
       • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
       • 2–3 tsp of the seasoning blend (more or less depending on desired heat)
     • Stir thoroughly so the seasoning is evenly distributed.

4. Bread the Mozzarella Sticks (Double Breading)

1. Double breading helps keep the cheese sealed inside and creates that thick, crunchy exterior.
2. From the freezer: Take out the frozen mozzarella sticks. Work in small batches so they stay cold.
3. First coat in flour:
   • Roll each frozen stick in the flour, shaking off any excess.
   • Make sure every surface is covered.
4. Dip in egg wash:
   • Submerge the floured stick in the egg mixture.
   • Let excess drip off, but keep it fully coated.
5. Coat in breadcrumbs:
   • Roll the stick in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently so the crumbs adhere.
   • Make sure the ends are well covered—this is where cheese leaks most easily.
6. Repeat for double breading:
   • Take the breaded stick, dip it again in egg wash.
   • Then roll it again in breadcrumbs for a second layer.
7. Place fully breaded sticks on a baking sheet or plate lined with parchment.
8. When all are coated, freeze again for 30–45 minutes.
9. This second freeze helps maintain structure during frying and prevents blowouts.

5. Make the Hot Oil / Butter Glaze (Optional but Excellent)

1. While the sticks are freezing for the second time:
   • In a small saucepan over low heat, combine:
     • ¼ cup neutral oil
     • 2 tbsp butter
2. Once the butter melts and the mixture is warm (not smoking), turn off the heat.
3. Stir in 1–2 tbsp of your dry seasoning blend, whisking until fully incorporated.
4. Start with 1 tbsp if you’re unsure about heat.
5. Set aside. This will be brushed or drizzled over the sticks after frying.

6. Heat the Oil for Frying

1. In a deep pot or heavy‑bottomed pan, add 2–3 inches of neutral oil.
2. Heat to 350–365°F (175–185°C).
3. Use a thermometer if possible.

7. Fry the Mozzarella Sticks

1. Carefully add a few frozen, breaded mozzarella sticks to the hot oil.
2. Don’t overcrowd the pot; fry in batches.
3. Fry for about 2–3 minutes, turning once, until:
4. Golden brown
5. Crispy on all sides
6. Watch closely; once you see slight cheese seepage at the ends, they’re done.
7. Remove with a slotted spoon or spider and place on a wire rack or paper towels to drain.

8. Season & Serve Nashville‑Hot Style

1. Now we add the signature spicy touch:
   • Option A – Glaze + Dust (closest to hot chicken style):
     • While still hot, lightly brush or drizzle the hot oil/butter glaze over each stick.
     • Immediately sprinkle a pinch of the dry seasoning blend on top for extra flavor and color.
   • Option B – Just Dry Seasoning (simpler, still delicious):
     • While hot, place the sticks in a shallow bowl or tray.
     • Sprinkle with the dry seasoning blend to taste and gently toss or roll to coat.
2. Serve the Dave’s Hot Chicken Mozzarella Sticks immediately with your choice of dipping sauce.

What to serve with

If you’re whipping up a batch of Dave’s Hot Chicken Mozzarella Sticks, you’ll want to pair them with complementary sides, sauces, and drinks to enhance the experience.

a. Classic Ranch Dressing: Ranch adds a cool, creamy contrast to the fiery seasoning on the Dave’s Hot Chicken Mozzarella Sticks. It’s a classic choice that’s crowd-pleasing and soothing for anyone sensitive to heat. Make it extra special by using homemade ranch with fresh herbs like dill, garlic, and parsley.

b. Spicy Mayo: Mix mayonnaise with your favorite hot sauce or sriracha for a creamy dip with a little extra kick.

c. Chipotle Ranch: Combine ranch dressing with a spoonful of chipotle in adobo sauce for a smoky, spicy flavor twist to the Dave’s Hot Chicken Mozzarella Sticks.

d. Honey Mustard: A sweet and tangy honey mustard dip is fantastic for cutting through the spice while providing a flavor contrast.

e. Marinara Sauce: A nod to the traditional mozzarella stick pairing, a warm marinara sauce complements the cheesy interior perfectly.

f. Garlic Aioli: Combine mayonnaise with minced garlic, a squeeze of lemon, and a touch of olive oil. It’s creamy, garlicky, and pairs beautifully with the crunchy exterior of the Dave’s Hot Chicken Mozzarella Sticks.

Ingredients Substitutes

Making Dave’s Hot Chicken Mozzarella Sticks at home is fun and delicious, but what if you don’t have all the specific ingredients on hand? No problem! Many of the ingredients can be substituted with alternatives that still deliver bold flavors, a crispy coating, and that signature spicy kick.

1. Substitutes for Mozzarella Sticks (String Cheese)

If you don’t have string cheese on hand, here are some alternatives:

a. Block Mozzarella Cheese

• Use a block of low-moisture mozzarella (not fresh, water-packed mozzarella, as it will leak water and become messy).
• Cut the block into sticks roughly the size of string cheese (~3 inches long, ½-inch thick).
• Why Low-Moisture?: It has a firmer texture and melts more predictably.

b. Cheese Sticks (Cheddar or Pepper Jack)

Not all cheese sticks have to be mozzarella! Pre-packaged cheddar or pepper jack cheese sticks work great for a twist on flavor.

Note: These cheeses might have a shorter melting time, so keep an eye on them while frying.

c. Halloumi or Paneer

If you want an even firmer cheese that won’t melt as much, you can use halloumi or paneer. They hold their shape but won’t give you that signature cheese pull.

2. Substitutes for All-Purpose Flour

Flour is used to create the first sticky base layer in the breading process. If you don’t have all-purpose flour, try these:

a. Cornstarch or Potato Starch: These starches create a super crispy crust and work just as well as flour for breading.

b. Rice Flour: This is another excellent substitute, especially for creating a light and crispy crust like you’d find in tempura-style dishes.

c. Gluten-Free Flour Blend: If you’re avoiding gluten, any gluten-free all-purpose blend works perfectly as a direct substitute.

d. Almond Flour or Coconut Flour: For low-carb options, almond flour or coconut flour can be used, but they’ll give the mozzarella sticks a slightly nuttier flavor.

3. Substitutes for Eggs (Egg Wash)

Eggs bind the breadcrumbs to the cheese. If you’re out of eggs or need an alternative (e.g., for vegans), here’s what you can use:

a. Milk or Buttermilk: Dip the cheese in plain milk or buttermilk as an alternative egg wash.

b. Plant-Based Milk: Unsweetened, unflavored versions of almond milk, soy milk, or oat milk can be used in place of eggs.

c. Egg-Replacement Mixture: Combine 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed or chia seeds with 3 tablespoons of water. Let it sit for a few minutes until it forms a gel-like consistency, then use it to coat the cheese.

d. Yogurt or Greek Yogurt: Thin out plain yogurt with a splash of water or milk, whisk well, and use as an egg substitute.

4. Substitutes for Breadcrumbs

Breadcrumbs make up the crispy coating of the mozzarella sticks. If you don’t have store-bought breadcrumbs, try these:

a. Panko Breadcrumbs: If you don’t have regular breadcrumbs, panko breadcrumbs work beautifully and even add more crunch.

b. Crushed Crackers: Crush Ritz crackers, saltines, or any other mild-flavored crackers for a flavorful coating.

c. Crushed Cornflakes: Use unsweetened cornflakes and crush them into small pieces for a crispy, crunchy coating similar to breadcrumbs.

d. Potato Chips: Crushed potato chips bring a salty, crunchy twist to the recipe. Flavors like plain, barbecue, or even spicy chili chips can add an extra kick.

e. Tortilla Chips: Crush plain or flavored tortilla chips into crumbs for a fun and crispy alternative.

f. Gluten-Free Breadcrumbs: If you need a gluten-free option, you can find gluten-free breadcrumbs or just crush gluten-free crackers into crumbs.

5. Substitutes for “Dave’s Hot Chicken” Seasoning Blend

The seasoning blend is what gives the mozzarella sticks that signature Nashville-inspired heat. If you’re missing some spices, here’s how to make adjustments:

a. Paprika: Substitute smoked paprika with regular paprika, if needed.

b. Cayenne Pepper: Cayenne supplies the bulk of the heat in this recipe.

c. Garlic Powder & Onion Powder: If you’re missing one, you can double the other. For example, replace 1 tsp of garlic powder with 1 tsp onion powder and vice versa.

d. Brown Sugar: If you’re out of brown sugar, replace it with:

e. Pre-Blended Seasonings: If you don’t want to mix your own spices, you can use pre-blended seasonings.

6. Substitutes for Frying Oil

Neutral oils with high smoke points are best for frying. If you don’t have the suggested oils, substitute with the following:

a. Canola Oil: Substitute with vegetable oil, peanut oil, or corn oil.

b. Sunflower Oil or Safflower Oil: Both work equally well for deep frying.

c. Avocado Oil: This is a healthier option with a high smoke point, but it’s more expensive.

7. Substitutes for Butter (in the Hot Glaze)

Butter adds a rich flavor to the optional hot glaze. Here are alternatives:

a. Ghee or Clarified Butter: These can replace butter 1:1 and add a nuttier flavor.

b. Coconut Oil: Use refined coconut oil to avoid a coconut aftertaste.

c. Margarine: Vegan or dairy-free margarine works well in place of butter.

Final Thoughts

By pairing Dave’s Hot Chicken Mozzarella Sticks with these sides, dips, and drinks, you’ll create a meal that’s balanced, flavorful, and indulgent enough to satisfy any craving.

More Mozzarella Sticks Recipes:

• Homemade Arby’s Mozzarella Sticks Recipe