Chicken Ham and Cheese Sticks

Chicken Ham and Cheese Sticks Recipe

Chicken Ham and Cheese Sticks are a crowd-pleasing snack that combines the flavors of tender chicken, savory ham, and melted cheese all in a crunchy coating. This simple, quick-to-make recipe will satisfy your cravings for something both delicious and filling.

Ingredients:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into thin strips
• 6 slices of deli ham, sliced into halves
• 6 slices of mozzarella cheese (or your choice of cheese)
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for frying)

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Strips

1. Start by cutting the chicken breasts into thin strips, approximately 1-inch wide.
2. Season the chicken strips with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Set aside.

Step 2: Assemble the Chicken Ham and Cheese Sticks

1. Take a strip of chicken and place a slice of ham and a slice of mozzarella cheese on top.
2. Roll the chicken strip, ham, and cheese tightly into a log. Repeat with the remaining chicken strips, ham, and cheese slices.

Step 3: Coat the Sticks

1. Set up a breading station. In one shallow bowl, place the flour. In a second bowl, beat the eggs. In a third bowl, place the breadcrumbs.
2. First, dip each chicken roll into the flour, ensuring it’s fully coated.
3. Next, dip the floured chicken into the beaten eggs.
4. Finally, coat the chicken roll in the breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure the coating sticks well.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken Sticks

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Once the oil is hot, add the breaded chicken rolls to the skillet, cooking in batches if necessary. Fry for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy, and the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).
3. Once cooked, transfer the chicken sticks to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

1. Serve your Chicken Ham and Cheese Sticks hot with a side of marinara sauce or your favorite dipping sauce for extra flavor.

Why Chicken Ham and Cheese Sticks Are a Must-Try:

• Quick and Easy: These sticks are simple to make, and with minimal prep time, they come together in less than 30 minutes.
• Kid-Friendly: With their cheesy, crispy exterior and savory filling, these sticks are sure to be a hit with the kids (and adults too!).
• Versatile: Customize these sticks by using different types of cheese (cheddar, Swiss, or provolone) or adding other fillings like spinach or bell peppers for added flavor.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family dinner, a party snack, or game day food, these sticks are guaranteed to please.

Pro Tips:

• Make It Ahead: You can prepare the chicken sticks ahead of time and freeze them. Simply bread the chicken rolls, then freeze them for up to a month. When ready to cook, fry them directly from the freezer for a quick snack.
• Oven Baking Option: If you prefer a healthier version, bake the chicken rolls at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden and crispy.

Perfect Pairings:

• Serve with marinara sauce for dipping or ranch dressing for a creamy contrast.
• Pair with a simple green salad or a bowl of vegetable soup for a complete meal.