Go Back
–+ servings

Sourdough Mozzarella Sticks (Homemade Chili’s Style)

Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: American
Keyword: sourdough mozzarella sticks, sourdough breadcrumbs, sourdough discard recipe, homemade mozzarella sticks, air fryer mozzarella sticks, Chili’s mozzarella sticks copycat, freezer-friendly appetizer
Prep Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
Servings: 10 Sticks
These sourdough mozzarella sticks are inspired by Chili’s but made even better at home using crispy, seasoned sourdough breadcrumbs. They’re crunchy on the outside, gooey in the middle, and freezer-friendly for party prep or weekend fun.
Print Recipe

Equipment

  • 1 Knife to cut mozzarella
  • 1 Cutting Board
  • 3 Medium sized bowls for dredge
  • 1 Measuring cup set
  • 1 Tray or plate for freezing cheese
  • 1-2 sheet of parchment paper
  • 1 Baking Sheet
  • 1 Food processor or blender (to grind toasted sourdough)
  • 1 Pan for deep frying or air fryer
  • 1 Digital Food Thermometer (to monitor oil temp)
  • 1 Slotted spoon or wire skimmer
  • 1 Wire rack with paper towels underneath (for draining)

Ingredients

For Mozzarella Sticks

  • 1 2-lb block low-moisture mozzarella
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 3 eggs
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • neutral oil for frying or spray for air fryer

For Sourdough Breadcrumbs:

  • 1/2 loaf stale sourdough bread cubed- or 2 Cups of breadcrumbs
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • Optional: 1/4 cup grated Parmesan

Instructions

Make the Sourdough Breadcrumbs:

  • Preheat oven to 350°F and toast sourdough cubes for 15–20 minutes until completely dry. Cool, then pulse in a food processor until fine.
  • Mix in garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and optional Parmesan.

Cut and Freeze Mozzarella

  • Slice cheese into strips about 1/2” wide and 3–4” long.
    Freeze for 30 minutes to firm up.

Set Up Breading Station (Double-Dip Method)

  • Bowl 1: Flour
    Bowl 2: Eggs + milk (whisked)
    Bowl 3: Seasoned breadcrumbs
  • Coat each frozen cheese stick in flour → dip in egg wash → coat in breadcrumbs → repeat egg wash → coat in breadcrumbs again.
  • Place on parchment-lined tray and freeze for at least 1 hour or up to 2 months.

Cooking Options

  • Deep Fry:
    Heat oil to 350°F.
    Fry 3–5 sticks at a time for 1–2 minutes until golden.
    Drain on a rack.
  • Air Fryer:
    Preheat to 400°F. Spray sticks with oil.
    Air fry for 6–8 minutes, flipping halfway.
  • Let cool slightly and serve with your favorite dipping sauce.

Video

Notes

These are best served immediately but can be reheated for parties! The sourdough breadcrumbs help them stay crispy even hours later.
QR Code linking back to recipe