If you’re in the mood for a delightful and satisfying meal, these Cheesy Chicken Fritters are the perfect choice. They’re crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with gooey mozzarella cheese. These fritters are easy to make and are sure to become a family favorite. Plus, they pair perfectly with a zesty Garlic Aioli Dip. In this blog post, we’ll walk you through the recipe step-by-step, provide helpful cooking notes, and offer variations including keto and low-carb options.
Ingredients
For Chicken Fritters
- 1 1/2 lbs chicken breasts (3 large)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour (or cornstarch or potato starch for gluten-free)
- 4 oz mozzarella cheese (1 1/3 cups shredded)
- 1 1/2 Tbsp chopped fresh dill
- 1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)
- 1/8 tsp black pepper
- 2 Tbsp extra light olive oil (or any high heat cooking oil)
For Garlic Aioli Dip (Optional)
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise
- 1 garlic clove, pressed
- 1/2 Tbsp lemon juice
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/8 tsp black pepper
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Mixture
- Chop the Chicken:
- Finely dice the chicken breasts into small, bite-sized pieces. The smaller the pieces, the better the texture of the fritters.
- Mix Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced chicken, eggs, mayonnaise, flour (or cornstarch/potato starch for gluten-free), shredded mozzarella cheese, chopped fresh dill, salt, and black pepper.
- Mix until all ingredients are well combined and the chicken is evenly coated.
Step 2: Cook the Fritters
- Heat the Oil:
- In a large non-stick skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of extra light olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Form and Cook the Fritters:
- Using a spoon, scoop out portions of the chicken mixture and place them in the hot skillet, flattening them slightly with the back of the spoon to form patties.
- Cook the fritters in batches to avoid overcrowding the skillet.
- Fry each fritter for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Drain and Keep Warm:
- Transfer the cooked fritters to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
- Keep the fritters warm while you cook the remaining batches.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Aioli Dip (Optional)
- Combine Ingredients:
- In a small mixing bowl, combine 1/3 cup mayonnaise, 1 pressed garlic clove, 1/2 tablespoon lemon juice, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and 1/8 teaspoon black pepper.
- Stir until well combined.
- Serve:
- Serve the chicken fritters hot, with the garlic aioli dip on the side for dipping.
Cook Notes and Variations
Cook Notes:
- Chicken: For the best texture, finely dice the chicken breasts rather than grinding them. This helps the fritters hold together better and gives them a more appealing texture.
- Oil: Use a high heat cooking oil like extra light olive oil, canola oil, or vegetable oil to prevent the fritters from burning.
- Cheese: Mozzarella cheese is ideal for these fritters, but you can experiment with other cheeses like cheddar or Monterey Jack for different flavors.
Variations:
- Keto Version:
- Replace the flour with almond flour or coconut flour.
- Ensure the mayonnaise and cheese used are keto-friendly.
- Low-Carb Version:
- Use a low-carb flour alternative like almond flour.
- Serve with a side of low-carb vegetables or a salad.
- Spicy Version:
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the chicken mixture for a spicy kick.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use ground chicken instead of diced chicken?
Yes, you can use ground chicken, but finely diced chicken provides a better texture and helps the fritters hold together more effectively.
2. Can I bake these fritters instead of frying?
Yes, you can bake the fritters. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), place the fritters on a parchment-lined baking sheet, and bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through.
3. How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
4. Can I freeze these fritters?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked fritters. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. Reheat from frozen in the oven at 375°F (190°C) until heated through.
5. What can I serve with these fritters?
These fritters pair well with a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or a simple cucumber and tomato salad. They are also delicious on their own with the garlic aioli dip.
Cheesy Chicken Fritters are a delightful and versatile dish that is sure to please any crowd. Whether you’re making them for a family dinner, a party appetizer, or a quick snack, these fritters are easy to prepare and incredibly tasty. With variations available for keto and low-carb diets, everyone can enjoy these delicious fritters. Give this recipe a try and savor the crispy, cheesy goodness of homemade chicken fritters. Happy cooking!
