Introduction
Chicken ham and cheese sticks are a delicious and easy-to-make snack perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing a quick appetizer, a game-day snack, or a lunchbox treat, these crispy and cheesy delights will satisfy your cravings. This recipe combines tender chicken, savory ham, and gooey melted cheese, all wrapped in a crispy breadcrumb coating.
Ingredients
To make chicken ham and cheese sticks, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 slices of ham
- 4 slices of cheese (mozzarella or cheddar)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Cooking oil for frying
- Toothpicks (to secure rolls)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Slice the chicken breasts into thin fillets.
- Place the chicken fillets between two pieces of plastic wrap and pound them gently to flatten.
- Season each fillet with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
Step 2: Assemble the Sticks
- Lay a slice of ham on top of each chicken fillet.
- Place a slice of cheese over the ham.
- Roll the chicken tightly and secure it with toothpicks.
Step 3: Coat the Sticks
- Dredge each roll in flour, ensuring it is evenly coated.
- Dip the roll into the beaten eggs.
- Coat the roll with breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
Step 4: Fry the Sticks
- Heat oil in a deep pan over medium heat.
- Fry the rolls until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side.
- Remove and drain on a paper towel.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Allow the sticks to cool slightly before removing the toothpicks.
- Serve with your favorite dipping sauces such as marinara, honey mustard, or ranch.
- Enjoy these crispy, cheesy, and savory delights!
Tips for the Best Chicken Ham and Cheese Sticks
- Use thinly sliced ham and cheese for easier rolling.
- Freeze the rolled sticks for 15 minutes before frying to help them hold their shape.
- Experiment with different cheeses for unique flavors.
Variations
- Baked Version: Instead of frying, bake the sticks at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes.
- Spicy Option: Add cayenne pepper or chili flakes for extra heat.
- Herb Infusion: Mix dried herbs into the breadcrumbs for enhanced flavor.
Conclusion
Chicken ham and cheese sticks are a must-try for cheese and chicken lovers. Whether fried or baked, they offer a perfect balance of crispiness, cheesiness, and savory goodness. Try this recipe today and impress your family and friends with this delightful snack!
