Crispy Buffalo Chicken Mozzarella Sticks in the Air Fryer

A Crispy, Cheesy, Spicy Snack That Brings Everyone to the Kitchen

Crispy Buffalo Chicken Mozzarella Sticks in the Air Fryer are the kind of snack that turns a simple craving into something exciting. They are crunchy on the outside, gooey in the middle, spicy from the buffalo sauce, and deeply satisfying in the way only melted cheese and seasoned chicken can be.

There is something so comforting about hearing the air fryer begin to hum while a tray of breaded sticks waits to become golden and crisp. The whole process feels quick, fun, and just a little bit special.

This recipe brings together cooked shredded chicken, buffalo sauce, mozzarella cheese, breadcrumbs, eggs, flour, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Each piece is shaped, coated, air fried, and served warm with the kind of melty center that makes everyone reach for another.

What makes these sticks so lovable is the contrast. The outside has that crisp breadcrumb coating, while the inside is soft, cheesy, savory, and slightly fiery.

They are perfect for busy weeknights, casual dinners, gatherings, snack boards, game-day spreads, or anytime you want something bold without deep frying. The air fryer keeps the process easier while still giving you that satisfying crunch.

This is the kind of recipe that feels made for sharing. Set out a platter with ranch, blue cheese dip, crunchy celery, and carrot sticks, and suddenly the table feels lively, casual, and full of flavor.

Why You’ll Love These Buffalo Chicken Mozzarella Sticks

You will love these Crispy Buffalo Chicken Mozzarella Sticks because every bite gives you more than one texture. First comes the crunchy coating, then the warm chicken filling, then the melted mozzarella that stretches and softens the heat.

The flavor is bold but still comforting. Buffalo sauce brings spice and tang, while the mozzarella adds creamy richness.

The chicken makes the sticks more satisfying than plain mozzarella sticks. It adds protein, texture, and savory depth.

They are also quick to prepare. In about 30 minutes, you can make a flavorful snack or dinner-style appetizer that feels fun and homemade.

The air fryer is one of the best parts of this recipe. It helps create a crisp exterior without needing a pot of oil.

This recipe is also flexible. You can use rotisserie chicken for ease, choose your preferred buffalo sauce heat level, use panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch, or add jalapeños, pepper jack cheese, herbs, or different dipping sauces.

What Are Crispy Buffalo Chicken Mozzarella Sticks?

Crispy Buffalo Chicken Mozzarella Sticks are shaped sticks made from cooked shredded chicken, buffalo sauce, and mozzarella cheese. They are coated in flour, egg, and breadcrumbs, then cooked in the air fryer until golden and crisp.

They are inspired by the comfort of mozzarella sticks and the bold flavor of buffalo chicken. Instead of just cheese inside, the filling has shredded chicken mixed with buffalo sauce and mozzarella.

The breading gives the outside its crunch. Flour helps the egg stick, egg helps the breadcrumbs cling, and breadcrumbs create the crisp final layer.

The air fryer cooks the sticks with circulating hot air. This makes them golden and crunchy while keeping the inside hot, cheesy, and flavorful.

They are best served warm after cooling for a minute. The inside can be very hot, especially because of the melted mozzarella.

The Comfort Behind This Recipe

Some snacks are quiet and simple. These buffalo chicken mozzarella sticks are not that kind of snack.

They are bold, warm, crispy, cheesy, and made for the kind of moment when people gather around the kitchen before the plate even reaches the table. The smell of buffalo sauce and melting cheese has a way of making everyone curious.

The original story behind this recipe describes a cozy gathering with friends, the air fryer humming, the aroma of spicy buffalo sauce and mozzarella filling the room, and that first crunchy bite bringing back memories of laughter and comfort. That feeling is exactly what this dish captures.

Food like this is not only about flavor. It is about the energy it creates.

A platter of crispy sticks feels casual and inviting. People reach in, dip, laugh, compare sauces, and go back for seconds.

That is the magic of this recipe. It turns simple ingredients into a shared experience.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 cup cooked, shredded chicken, 240 ml, rotisserie chicken can be used for ease
• ½ cup buffalo sauce, 120 ml, choose your preferred heat level
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded, 120 g, fresh, gooey mozzarella is ideal
• 1 cup breadcrumbs, 120 g, panko breadcrumbs give extra crunch
• 2 large eggs, beaten, or substitute with flaxseed meal for a vegan option
• ½ cup all-purpose flour, 60 g, or use whole wheat flour for a healthier option
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Additional Flavor Ideas From the Recipe

• Add paprika or cayenne pepper to the breadcrumbs
• Add diced jalapeños to the chicken mixture
• Substitute mozzarella with pepper jack cheese
• Add parsley or cilantro to the breadcrumb mixture
• Try sweet potato or zucchini for a veggie-packed version
• Serve with ranch dressing, blue cheese dip, avocado dip, or other sauces
• Add hot sauce to the egg mixture
• Double-bread the sticks for a thicker crunch
• Serve with celery or carrot sticks

Ingredient Notes

Cooked Shredded Chicken

Cooked shredded chicken gives these sticks their hearty filling. The recipe uses 1 cup, or 240 ml.

Rotisserie chicken is suggested for ease. It saves time and gives you tender chicken that is ready to mix with the buffalo sauce.

The chicken should be well shredded. Smaller shreds mix more evenly with the sauce and cheese, helping the sticks hold their shape.

If the pieces are too large, shaping the sticks can be harder. Fine, even shreds make the filling smoother and easier to coat.

Buffalo Sauce

Buffalo sauce gives the recipe its spicy, tangy flavor. The recipe uses ½ cup, or 120 ml.

You can choose your preferred heat level. A mild sauce keeps the sticks more family-friendly, while a hotter sauce makes them bolder.

The sauce should coat the chicken well. It is what carries the buffalo flavor through every bite.

If you want stronger heat, the chef’s notes suggest adding a dash of hot sauce to the egg mixture. This adds another layer of spice.

Mozzarella Cheese

Mozzarella is what gives these sticks their melty center. The recipe uses 1 cup, or 120 g, of shredded mozzarella.

Fresh, gooey mozzarella is described as ideal. It creates that soft, creamy texture people love in mozzarella sticks.

Mozzarella also balances the heat of the buffalo sauce. Its mild creaminess keeps the recipe from tasting too sharp.

If you want a spicier version, pepper jack cheese is suggested as a variation. It adds heat and a different flavor.

Breadcrumbs

Breadcrumbs create the crispy coating. The recipe uses 1 cup, or 120 g.

Panko breadcrumbs are suggested for extra crunch. They create a lighter, crispier texture than finer crumbs.

The breadcrumb layer is important because it protects the filling and gives the sticks their signature bite. Without it, the outside would not have the same crunch.

You can also add herbs or spices to the breadcrumbs. Paprika, cayenne pepper, parsley, or cilantro can make the coating more flavorful.

Eggs

The beaten eggs help the breadcrumbs stick to the flour-coated chicken sticks. They act as the middle layer in the breading station.

The recipe uses 2 large eggs. Beat them until smooth and slightly frothy.

A flaxseed meal substitute is mentioned as an option. This can be used as an egg alternative.

The egg layer should coat the stick without being too heavy. Let any excess drip off before moving to the breadcrumbs.

Flour

Flour is the first layer of breading. It helps the egg cling to the shaped chicken sticks.

The recipe uses ½ cup, or 60 g, all-purpose flour. Whole wheat flour can be used for a healthier option.

The flour is seasoned with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. This keeps the coating flavorful from the first layer.

A light coating is enough. Too much flour can make the breading feel heavy.

Garlic Powder and Onion Powder

Garlic powder adds savory depth. Onion powder brings a subtle sweetness.

Together, they make the flour coating more flavorful. They also support the buffalo sauce and chicken.

The recipe uses ½ teaspoon of each. These seasonings are simple but important.

They help keep the sticks from tasting like plain breaded chicken. Every layer should have flavor.

Salt and Pepper

Salt and pepper bring balance. They season the flour and help the whole recipe taste complete.

Use them to taste. Since buffalo sauce can already be salty, season thoughtfully.

A little pepper adds warmth. Salt helps the chicken, cheese, and coating stand out.

How to Make Crispy Buffalo Chicken Mozzarella Sticks in the Air Fryer

Step 1: Prepare the Shredded Chicken

Start with 1 cup of cooked shredded chicken. Make sure the chicken is fully cooked before using it in this recipe.

If you are using rotisserie chicken, remove the meat and shred it into small pieces. This makes the mixture easier to shape.

If using frozen chicken, make sure it is fully thawed and cooked before shredding. The recipe notes that frozen chicken can be used, but it must be prepared properly first.

The chicken should be soft and evenly shredded. Smaller pieces help the mozzarella and sauce blend through the mixture.

Step 2: Mix the Chicken With Buffalo Sauce

Place the shredded chicken in a mixing bowl. Add the buffalo sauce.

Stir until the chicken is well coated. Every shred should have some buffalo flavor.

If you prefer a milder taste, use less sauce or choose a mild buffalo sauce. If you enjoy strong heat, use a hotter sauce.

This step builds the main flavor of the sticks. The sauce should soak into the chicken so the filling tastes spicy and tangy throughout.

Step 3: Fold in the Mozzarella Cheese

Add the shredded mozzarella cheese to the buffalo chicken mixture. Fold it in until evenly distributed.

The mozzarella should be spread throughout the filling. This ensures that each stick has melty cheese inside.

Try not to overmix until the chicken becomes mushy. Fold gently but thoroughly.

The filling should look moist, cheesy, and easy to shape. If it feels too loose, press it together gently before forming the sticks.

Step 4: Set Up the Breading Station

Prepare three separate bowls. In the first bowl, combine the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.

In the second bowl, beat the eggs until smooth and frothy. This will help the breadcrumbs stick.

In the third bowl, add the breadcrumbs. If using panko, the coating will be extra crunchy.

You can also add paprika or cayenne pepper to the breadcrumbs for extra flavor. This is an optional way to deepen the coating.

Step 5: Shape the Chicken Mixture Into Sticks

Take a small portion of the buffalo chicken mozzarella mixture. Shape it into a stick about the size of your pinky finger.

Press the mixture gently so it holds together. It should be compact enough to survive the breading process.

Try to make the sticks similar in size. Even sizes help them cook evenly in the air fryer.

Place the shaped sticks on a plate or tray as you work. Continue until all the mixture is shaped.

Step 6: Coat Each Stick in the Flour Mixture

Take one shaped stick and roll it in the seasoned flour. Make sure all sides are lightly coated.

The flour layer is important because it gives the egg something to cling to. Without flour, the egg may slide off.

Shake off any excess flour. A thin coating works better than a thick one.

Repeat with the remaining sticks. Keep them arranged neatly so the next breading steps are easier.

Step 7: Dip the Floured Sticks in Egg

Dip each flour-coated stick into the beaten eggs. Turn it gently so the entire surface is coated.

Let any extra egg drip off before moving to the breadcrumbs. Too much egg can make the coating heavy.

This egg layer creates the sticky surface that holds the breadcrumbs in place. It is the bridge between the flour and the crunchy exterior.

Work carefully so the sticks keep their shape. If one softens, press it back together gently.

Step 8: Roll the Sticks in Breadcrumbs

Place the egg-coated stick into the breadcrumb bowl. Roll it until fully coated.

Press gently so the breadcrumbs stick well. This helps create an even crisp layer.

Make sure the ends are coated too. Any uncovered areas may leak more cheese as they cook.

Repeat until every stick is breaded. You should now have a tray of coated sticks ready for the air fryer.

Step 9: Double-Bread for Extra Crunch if Desired

For an extra crispy finish, you can double-bread the sticks. The chef’s notes suggest this for a thicker crunch.

To double-bread, dip the breaded stick back into the egg, then roll it in breadcrumbs again. This creates a heavier coating.

Double-breading helps protect the filling and gives a more substantial crunch. It can also help reduce cheese leakage.

This step is optional, but it is a great choice if you want the crispiest texture possible.

Step 10: Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat the air fryer to 375°F, or 190°C. This step is essential for crispiness.

A preheated air fryer starts cooking the coating immediately. That helps the outside become golden and crunchy.

If the air fryer is not preheated, the sticks may cook unevenly or become less crisp. The recipe specifically notes not to skip this step.

While it preheats, keep the coated sticks ready. You can also lightly spray them with oil.

Step 11: Prepare the Air Fryer Basket

Lightly spray the air fryer basket with non-stick cooking spray. This helps prevent sticking.

You can also lightly spray the sticks themselves with oil. This supports browning and helps the coating crisp.

Do not overspray. A light coating is enough.

This step is one of the keys to a crisp finish. It helps the breadcrumbs turn golden instead of dry.

Step 12: Place the Sticks in the Basket

Arrange the breaded sticks in the air fryer basket. Leave space between each one.

Do not overcrowd the basket. Hot air needs room to circulate around every stick.

If the basket is crowded, the sticks may steam instead of crisp. Cook in batches if necessary.

The sticks should sit in a single layer. This gives the best texture.

Step 13: Air Fry Until Golden

Cook the sticks for about 10 to 12 minutes. Flip them halfway through the cooking time.

Flipping helps both sides become evenly crisp. It also prevents one side from browning too much.

The sticks are ready when the coating is golden and crisp. The inside should be hot and the cheese should be melted.

Keep an eye on them near the end. Air fryers can vary, and you want crisp sticks without overcooking.

Step 14: Let the Sticks Cool Slightly

Remove the sticks from the air fryer carefully. Let them cool for a minute before serving.

The inside will be very hot because of the melted mozzarella. Cooling slightly helps prevent burning your mouth.

This brief resting time also helps the filling settle. The sticks will be easier to pick up and dip.

Do not let them sit too long. They are best enjoyed warm and crisp.

Step 15: Prepare Dipping Sauces

While the sticks cool, prepare your dipping sauces. Ranch dressing and blue cheese dip are both classic options.

A homemade avocado dip is also suggested as a creamy complement to the spice. It adds cool richness.

You can experiment with different sauces to find your favorite combination. The chef’s notes encourage trying different dipping sauces.

Place the dips in small bowls around the platter. This makes serving easy and inviting.

Step 16: Garnish and Serve

Arrange the crispy buffalo chicken mozzarella sticks on a platter. Garnish with fresh herbs or chopped green onions for color.

Serve with celery and carrot sticks for crunch. These fresh sides balance the spicy, cheesy richness.

Bring the sticks to the table while warm. This is when the outside is crisp and the mozzarella inside is melty.

The finished dish should feel fun, bold, and made for sharing. Every bite should have crunch, heat, chicken, and cheese.

Tips for Success

Shred the chicken well so the mixture shapes easily. Even shreds also help the cheese melt evenly through the filling.

Do not skip preheating the air fryer. A hot air fryer is key to a crisp exterior.

Avoid overcrowding the basket. Hot air needs space to move around each stick.

Spray the sticks lightly with oil before air frying. This helps the breadcrumbs become golden and crispy.

Let the sticks cool slightly before serving. The melted cheese inside can be very hot.

Use panko breadcrumbs for the crunchiest texture. They create a lighter, crispier coating.

Double-bread the sticks if you want extra crunch. This creates a thicker exterior.

Add hot sauce to the egg mixture if you want stronger buffalo flavor. This adds heat to another layer of the recipe.

Variations to Try

Jalapeño Buffalo Chicken Sticks

Add diced jalapeños to the chicken mixture for extra heat. This gives the filling a sharper kick.

The jalapeños pair well with buffalo sauce and mozzarella. They make the recipe feel even bolder.

Pepper Jack Version

Substitute mozzarella with pepper jack cheese for a spicier version. Pepper jack melts well and brings more heat.

This variation is great if you enjoy spicy snacks. It keeps the cheesy center but adds more flavor.

Herbed Breadcrumb Coating

Mix parsley or cilantro into the breadcrumb mixture. Fresh herbs add color and brightness.

This variation makes the coating taste fresher. It also gives the finished sticks a more colorful look.

Paprika or Cayenne Breadcrumbs

Add paprika or cayenne pepper to the breadcrumbs. Paprika adds warmth, while cayenne adds heat.

This gives the coating more flavor. It makes the outside taste as exciting as the filling.

Veggie-Packed Version

Try using sweet potato or zucchini for a healthier, veggie-packed version. This changes the texture and flavor.

It is a creative option if you want a different kind of stick. The same breading idea can bring crunch to vegetable-based fillings.

Avocado Dip Pairing

Serve the sticks with a homemade avocado dip. The cool creaminess pairs beautifully with the spicy buffalo flavor.

This is a great alternative to ranch or blue cheese. It gives the platter a fresh twist.

Make-Ahead Instructions

You can prepare the sticks ahead of time and refrigerate them before cooking. Shape and bread the sticks, then store them covered in the refrigerator.

When ready to air fry, place them in the basket and cook as directed. If they are chilled, add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

This make-ahead option is helpful for gatherings. You can do the messy shaping and breading earlier, then cook them fresh when guests arrive.

Keep the sticks cold until cooking. This also helps them hold their shape.

How to Store Leftovers

Store leftover sticks in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep for up to three days.

Let them cool before placing them in the container. This helps prevent steam from softening the coating too much.

The coating may lose some crispness after storage, but it can be refreshed. The best way to reheat them is in the air fryer.

Keep any dipping sauces separate. This helps the sticks stay as crisp as possible.

How to Reheat Buffalo Chicken Mozzarella Sticks

To reheat, place the leftover sticks back in the air fryer for a few minutes. This helps bring back their crisp texture.

Avoid overheating them, because the cheese can become too hot or leak out. Warm them just until heated through and crisp again.

The air fryer is better than the microwave for this recipe. Microwaving can make the coating soft.

Serve reheated sticks with fresh dipping sauce. They make a quick snack or easy meal option for busy days.

What to Serve With Crispy Buffalo Chicken Mozzarella Sticks

Ranch dressing is a classic choice. It cools the heat of the buffalo sauce and adds creaminess.

Blue cheese dip also pairs beautifully with buffalo flavor. It gives the snack a bold, tangy finish.

Celery and carrot sticks are great on the side. They bring crunch and freshness.

A homemade avocado dip adds a creamy contrast. It is especially nice if you want something fresh and smooth.

You can also serve these sticks as part of a larger dinner spread. They work well beside salads, vegetables, or other appetizer-style dishes.

Dinner Ideas to Try Next

Baked Chicken Legs are a great recipe to try if you enjoy simple, flavorful chicken dinners. They bring a different kind of hearty comfort.

Mini Meatloaf Muffins with Mashed Potato Frosting are another fun dinner idea. They offer a playful twist on classic comfort food.

Both recipes bring something different to the table. They are good options when you want to keep your dinner menu interesting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it must be fully thawed and cooked before shredding. The chicken should not go into the mixture raw.

Once thawed and cooked, shred it well. This gives the best texture for shaping the sticks.

How Can I Ensure My Sticks Stay Crispy?

Spray the sticks lightly with oil before air frying. This helps the breadcrumbs turn golden.

Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket. Hot air needs space to circulate around each stick.

Can I Make These Ahead of Time?

Yes, you can prepare the sticks and refrigerate them before cooking. Keep them covered until ready to air fry.

If they are chilled, add a few extra minutes to the cooking time. Watch for a golden, crispy exterior.

Can I Use a Different Cheese?

Yes, you can experiment with different cheeses. Pepper jack is suggested for a spicier version.

Mozzarella gives the classic melty texture. Other cheeses can change the flavor and heat level.

What Breadcrumbs Work Best?

Panko breadcrumbs are recommended for extra crunch. They create a crispier texture than finer breadcrumbs.

Regular breadcrumbs can still work. The coating may simply be a little less airy and crunchy.

Can I Make Them Spicier?

Yes, add diced jalapeños to the filling or add hot sauce to the egg mixture. You can also use a hotter buffalo sauce.

Cayenne pepper in the breadcrumbs can add another layer of heat. Adjust based on your preference.

Why Should I Let Them Cool Before Eating?

The inside becomes very hot because of the melted mozzarella. Letting the sticks cool for a minute helps prevent burns.

Cooling slightly also improves the eating experience. The filling settles while the outside stays crisp.

Can I Reheat Leftovers in the Air Fryer?

Yes, the air fryer is the best way to reheat leftovers. It helps restore the crispy coating.

Place them in the air fryer for a few minutes until hot. Avoid cooking too long so the cheese does not leak out.

Final Thoughts

Crispy Buffalo Chicken Mozzarella Sticks in the Air Fryer are the perfect combination of spicy, cheesy, crunchy, and comforting. They take simple ingredients and turn them into a snack that feels exciting enough for gatherings but easy enough for weeknights.

The filling is made with cooked shredded chicken, buffalo sauce, and mozzarella cheese. The coating uses flour, eggs, and breadcrumbs to create that golden air-fried crunch.

Every part of the recipe has a purpose. The buffalo sauce brings heat, the cheese adds creamy richness, the chicken makes the sticks hearty, and the air fryer gives them a crisp finish without deep frying.

You can serve them with ranch, blue cheese dip, avocado dip, celery, carrots, or your favorite sauces. You can also customize them with jalapeños, pepper jack, herbs, hot sauce, paprika, cayenne, or double breading.

Most of all, these crispy sticks are meant to be shared. They bring people to the kitchen, start conversations, and make a simple meal feel like a fun memory in the making.

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Crispy Buffalo Chicken Mozzarella Sticks in the Air Fryer

Crispy buffalo chicken mozzarella sticks are a spicy, cheesy, crunchy snack that comes together quickly in the air fryer. Shredded chicken is mixed with buffalo sauce and mozzarella, shaped into sticks, coated in breadcrumbs, and air fried until golden on the outside and melty inside. They are perfect for game day, party platters, after-school snacks, or anytime you want a bold appetizer with plenty of buffalo flavor and a satisfying crisp coating.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 cup (120 g) breadcrumbs
• 1 cup (240 ml) cooked
• ½ cup (120 ml) buffalo sauce
• 1 cup (120 g) mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup (60 g) all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Make the Buffalo Chicken Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked, shredded chicken with the buffalo sauce. Stir until the chicken is evenly coated and the mixture has a bold buffalo color.

Step 2: Add the Mozzarella

Fold in the shredded mozzarella cheese until it is evenly distributed throughout the buffalo chicken mixture.

Step 3: Prepare the Breading Station

Set up three separate bowls for breading. In the first bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.

Beat the eggs in a second bowl until smooth and slightly frothy.

Add the breadcrumbs to a third bowl. You can mix in extra spices if desired.

Step 4: Shape the Sticks

Take a small portion of the buffalo chicken mixture and shape it into a stick. Press it gently so it holds together before coating.

Step 5: Coat with Flour

Roll the shaped stick in the flour mixture until all sides are fully covered. Shake off any excess flour.

Step 6: Dip in Egg

Dip the floured stick into the beaten eggs. Let any extra egg drip back into the bowl so the coating does not become too heavy.

Step 7: Add the Breadcrumb Coating

Roll the stick in the breadcrumbs, pressing gently so the crumbs stick well to the surface. Repeat with the remaining chicken mixture.

Step 8: Air Fry Until Crispy

Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray the air fryer basket with non-stick cooking spray.

Place the coated sticks in the basket in a single layer. Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the outside is golden and crisp.

Notes

• Mix the shredded chicken with buffalo sauce until every piece is evenly coated and the color looks vibrant.
• For a crispier coating, use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs for extra texture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these buffalo chicken mozzarella sticks warm with ranch, blue cheese dressing, extra buffalo sauce, or a creamy garlic dip.

They also pair well with celery sticks, carrot sticks, fries, or a simple party appetizer spread.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat them in the air fryer to help bring back the crispy coating.

For the best texture, avoid microwaving if possible, since it can soften the breadcrumb crust.