Cheesy Chicken Fritters

Cheesy Chicken Fritters

These Cheesy Chicken Fritters are an absolute crowd-pleaser! They’re crispy on the outside, tender and cheesy on the inside, and packed with flavor. Perfect as an appetizer, snack, or even a main course.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

· Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes
· Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike adore them
· Versatile: Serve with various dipping sauces
· Great for Leftovers: Perfect way to use up leftover chicken

Ingredients:

For the Fritters:

· 2 cups cooked chicken, finely shredded or diced (rotisserie chicken works great!)
· 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
· ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
· ⅓ cup finely chopped onion
· ¼ cup finely chopped fresh parsley or chives
· 2 large eggs
· ⅓ cup all-purpose flour
· 2 tbsp mayonnaise
· 1 garlic clove, minced
· 1 tsp paprika
· ½ tsp salt
· ¼ tsp black pepper
· ¼ tsp garlic powder
· Oil for frying (vegetable, canola, or avocado oil)

For Serving (Optional):

· Ranch dressing
· Sour cream
· Marinara sauce
· Lemon wedges

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Mixture

1. In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, mozzarella cheese, cheddar cheese, chopped onion, and parsley.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the eggs, mayonnaise, minced garlic, paprika, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
3. Pour the egg mixture over the chicken mixture and stir until well combined.
4. Sprinkle the flour over the mixture and stir until everything is evenly coated and holds together.

Step 2: Heat the Oil

1. Heat about ¼ inch of oil in a large skillet over medium heat (350°F/175°C).
2. To test if the oil is ready, drop a small piece of the mixture into the oil – it should sizzle immediately.

Step 3: Form and Fry the Fritters

1. Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, drop portions of the mixture into the hot oil.
2. Gently flatten each fritter with the back of a spatula to about ½-inch thickness.
3. Fry for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy.
4. Work in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, which lowers the oil temperature.

Step 4: Drain and Serve

1. Remove fritters from the oil and drain on a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate.
2. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauces.

Chef’s Notes & Tips:

· Chicken Tip: Rotisserie chicken works perfectly here and adds great flavor. You can also use boiled or baked chicken breasts or thighs.
· Consistency Check: If your mixture seems too wet, add a bit more flour. If it seems too dry, add another tablespoon of mayonnaise.
· Baking Option: For a healthier version, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and cooked through.
· Make Ahead: You can prepare the mixture up to 24 hours in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator.
· Freezing: These freeze well! Cool completely, then freeze in a single layer before transferring to a freezer bag. Reheat in the oven or air fryer.
· Variations:
· Add ¼ cup cooked corn or diced bell peppers
· Mix in some cooked, crumbled bacon
· Add a pinch of cayenne for some heat
· Try different cheese combinations like pepper jack or gouda

Serving Suggestions:

· As an Appetizer: Serve with various dipping sauces
· As a Main Course: Pair with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables
· As a Sandwich: Place in a bun with lettuce and tomato
· For Meal Prep: Great for lunches throughout the week

Enjoy these delicious, cheesy, crispy chicken fritters! They’re sure to become a new family favorite.