Ingredients

• 12 mozzarella string cheese sticks, cut in half
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Cooking spray or olive oil spray
• Marinara sauce or other dipping sauce (optional)

Instructions

1. Prep the cheese: Start by placing the halved mozzarella sticks in the freezer for at least 1 hour. This will help them maintain their shape during the cooking process.
2. Set up a breading station: Prepare three shallow bowls or plates. Place the all-purpose flour in one, the beaten eggs in another, and combine the panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper in the third bowl.
3. Bread the cheese sticks: Remove the mozzarella sticks from the freezer. One at a time, dip each stick in the flour, then the egg, and finally the breadcrumb mixture. Press the breadcrumbs onto the cheese sticks to ensure they are evenly and thoroughly coated. Repeat the process for all the cheese sticks.
4. Freeze the breaded cheese sticks: Place the breaded mozzarella sticks on a parchment-lined baking sheet or plate, and freeze them for at least 30 minutes. This helps the breading set and prevents the cheese from melting too quickly in the air fryer.
5. Preheat the air fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3 minutes.
6. Spray and cook: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or olive oil spray. Place the breaded mozzarella sticks in a single layer in the basket, making sure they don't touch. You may need to cook them in batches. Lightly spray the tops of the mozzarella sticks with cooking spray or olive oil spray.
7. Air fry: Cook the mozzarella sticks for 6-8 minutes, or until the breading is golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don't overcook and burst open.
8. Serve: Remove the cooked mozzarella sticks from the air fryer and let them cool for a minute or two before serving. Enjoy them with your favorite marinara sauce or dipping sauce on the side.