Copycat Chili’s Nashville Hot Mozzarella Sticks Recipe
If you’ve ever had Chili’s Nashville Hot Mozzarella Sticks, you know they are the perfect balance of crispy, cheesy, and spicy. The crunchy panko coating holds in warm, melty mozzarella, while the Nashville hot glaze adds just the right amount of heat.

This copycat recipe lets you recreate the same restaurant-quality appetizer at home using simple ingredients, just like the Chili’s Nashville Hot Mozzarella Sticks.
Whether you're making these for game day, a party, or just a fun snack, this homemade version is just as bold and flavorful as the original.
With a perfectly seasoned breading and a spicy butter glaze, these mozzarella sticks will disappear fast.

Why You’ll Love Copycat Chili’s Nashville Hot Mozzarella Sticks
- Crispy, cheesy, and packed with flavor – The ultimate snack combination
- Restaurant-quality at home – No need for takeout
- Customizable heat level – Adjust the spice to fit your taste
- Perfect for parties and gatherings – Crowd-pleasing appetizer
- Budget-friendly – Simple ingredients that cost less than ordering out
Ingredients For Chili’s Nashville Hot Mozzarella Sticks

Mozzarella Sticks
- mozzarella cheese, cut into sticks
- all-purpose flour
- eggs
- panko breadcrumbs
- cayenne pepper
- smoked paprika
- garlic powder
- onion powder
Nashville Hot Glaze
- unsalted butter
- cayenne pepper
- brown sugar
- smoked paprika
- garlic powder
- chili powder
- hot sauce
How to Make Copycat Chili’s Nashville Hot Mozzarella Sticks
Step 1: Prepare the Mozzarella Sticks

Slice the mozzarella block into sticks about 3-4 inches long and ½ inch thick.
Set up a dredging station:
Bowl 1: Flour, cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder
Bowl 2: Beaten eggs
Bowl 3: Panko breadcrumbs
Step 2: Coat the Mozzarella Sticks

Coat each mozzarella stick in the seasoned flour, making sure it’s fully covered.

Dip into the beaten eggs, then coat with panko breadcrumbs.
Repeat the egg and breadcrumb step for a double coating to prevent cheese from leaking while frying.

Place the coated sticks on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze for at least 20 minutes.
Step 3: Make the Nashville Hot Glaze

- While the mozzarella sticks freeze, whisk together:
- Melted butter
- Cayenne pepper
- Brown sugar
- Smoked paprika
- Garlic powder
- Chili powder
- Hot sauce
- Set aside for later.
Step 4: Fry the Mozzarella Sticks

Heat vegetable oil in a frying pan to 350°F (175°C).
Fry the mozzarella sticks in small batches for 2-3 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crispy.

Remove and place on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil.
Step 5: Glaze and Serve

- While still warm, dip each mozzarella stick into the Nashville hot glaze and let the excess drip off.
- Serve immediately with ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping.

Recipe Tips and Tricks
- Freeze for at least 20 minutes – This keeps the cheese from melting too quickly while frying.
- Double coat with breadcrumbs – Adds extra crispiness and prevents the cheese from escaping.
- Use a thermometer – Keep the oil at 350°F to ensure even frying.
- Adjust the heat – Add more or less cayenne in the glaze to match your spice preference.
- Fry in small batches – This keeps the oil temperature steady for crispier mozzarella sticks.
Recipe Variations, Additions, and Substitutions
- Mild Version: Reduce the cayenne in the glaze and add honey for a sweet-heat balance.
- Extra Crispy: Use crushed cornflakes instead of panko breadcrumbs.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs.
- Air Fryer Option: Air fry at 400°F for 5-6 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Oven-Baked Option: Bake at 425°F for 10-12 minutes for a lower-fat alternative.

Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes. Bread the mozzarella sticks and freeze them until ready to fry. They can be stored in the freezer for up to a month.
How do I reheat leftovers?
For best results, air fry at 375°F for 3-4 minutes or bake at 400°F for 5-6 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it makes them soggy.
Can I bake these instead of frying?
Yes. Bake at 425°F for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through. They won’t be as crispy as fried, but still delicious.
How spicy is the Nashville hot glaze?
It has a noticeable kick, but you can adjust the spice level by adding more or less cayenne pepper.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes. Swap the flour and panko breadcrumbs for gluten-free alternatives.
What’s the best oil for frying mozzarella sticks?
Neutral oils with a high smoke point work best, such as vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil.
Can I use string cheese instead of a mozzarella block?
Yes. String cheese is a great shortcut and is already portioned into sticks.
How do I keep the glaze from making the sticks soggy?
Let the mozzarella sticks cool slightly before dipping into the glaze. You can also brush the glaze on instead of fully submerging them.
Why did my mozzarella sticks fall apart in the oil?
This usually happens when they aren’t frozen long enough before frying. Make sure they are completely frozen before placing them in hot oil.
Can I make a dipping sauce to go with these?
Yes. A simple ranch mixed with a little hot sauce makes a great dipping option. Other great choices include honey mustard or chipotle aioli.

These Nashville hot mozzarella sticks take classic fried cheese to the next level.
The heat from the cayenne-infused glaze, combined with the crispy panko coating, makes every bite packed with flavor.
Serve them with your favorite dipping sauce for an appetizer that stands out.
With just a few simple ingredients and a little prep time, you can enjoy restaurant-quality mozzarella sticks anytime.
Try This Recipe and Share Your Thoughts
These copycat Chili’s Nashville Hot Mozzarella Sticks bring bold, crispy, cheesy goodness straight to your kitchen.
Whether you're making them for parties, game nights, or just a fun snack, they’re guaranteed to be a hit.
Try them out and let me know how they turn out in the comments. If you make them, share your photos and tag me on social media.

Chili’s Nashville Hot Mozzarella Sticks Recipe
Copycat Chili’s Nashville Hot Mozzarella Sticks Recipe
Equipment
- Frying Pan
- Baking Sheet
- Parchment Paper
Ingredients
Mozzarella Sticks
- 1 lb block mozzarella cheese sliced into sticks
- 1 cup all purpose flour
- 3 eggs
- 2 cups panko bread crumbs
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
Hot Glaze
- ½ cup unsalted butter melted
- 3 tablespoons cayenne pepper
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon chili powder
- 2 teaspoons hot sauce
Instructions
- Slice the mozzarella block into sticks, about 3-4 inches long and ½ inch thick.
- Set up a dredging station with three shallow bowls: one with panko breadcrumbs, one with beaten eggs, and one with flour mixed with cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Dip each mozzarella stick into the seasoned flour, coating it fully.
- Dip the floured stick into the beaten eggs, then coat it in the panko breadcrumbs.
- Repeat the egg and breadcrumb coating for a double layer.
- Place the coated mozzarella sticks on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze for 20 minutes.
- While the sticks are freezing, prepare the hot glaze by whisking melted butter, cayenne pepper, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, chili powder, and hot sauce in a bowl until smooth. Set aside.
- Heat oil in a frying pan to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the mozzarella sticks in batches for 2-3 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove the sticks from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain.
- Dip each mozzarella stick into the hot glaze while still warm. Let the excess drip off placing on a rack after dipping.
- Serve immediately with ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping. Enjoy!