Use three separate bowls to create a breading work station: -In the first bowl: add the egg and 1 tbsp water, then whisk until blended.-In the second bowl: add the all purpose flour, salt and pepper, whisk to combine.-In the third bowl: add the plain breadcrumbs, panko breadcrumbs, Italian seasoning, garlic salt and vegetable oil, then mix to combine.
Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
Dip each halved cheese stick in the egg mixture, then dip in the flour mixture, coating evenly. Return the flour coated cheese stick to the egg mixture and coat again. Then place it in the bowl with the breadcrumbs and coat evenly. Place the breaded cheese stick on the parchment lined sheet and continue with the remaining sticks until finished, spacing the breaded cheese sticks at least 1 inch apart.
Transfer the cookie sheet with the mozzarella sticks to the freezer for at least 40 minutes.*
Preheat your air fryer to 400 degrees F. Lightly spritz the frozen mozzarella sticks with non-stick spray and cook for 5 to 7 minutes in an even layer until golden brown. Some cheese may escape if the cheese sticks were not frozen completely first.
Serve right away with marinara sauce for dipping. Enjoy!
Notes
Once frozen for at least 40 minutes, the mozzarella sticks can be placed in an airtight container and frozen for up to 6 months. Pull out as many mozzarella sticks as desired at a time and cook in the air fryer when ready.