Introduction
Chicken fritters are a delightful and versatile dish that can serve as a satisfying main course or an appealing appetizer. Made with simple ingredients, they are a great way to utilize leftover cooked chicken, particularly rotisserie chicken, making them both convenient and delicious. Paired with your favorite dipping sauce, these fritters are sure to be a hit at any gathering or family meal.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
2 cups cooked chicken, chopped or shredded (rotisserie works well)
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (or cheddar for a sharper flavor)
2 large eggs
2 tablespoons mayonnaise
1/4 cup all-purpose flour or almond flour (for a low-carb option)
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Oil for frying (such as avocado or light olive oil)
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 8 minutes
Total Time: 18 minutes
Yield: Approximately 8 fritters
Directions
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped chicken, shredded cheese, eggs, mayonnaise, flour, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
2. Using a spoon or cookie scoop, portion out the mixture and shape it into small patties, flattening them slightly.
3. Heat a skillet over medium heat and add enough oil to coat the bottom. Once the oil is hot, place the patties in the skillet, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan.
4. Cook each fritter for 3–4 minutes on one side until golden brown, then flip and cook for an additional 3–4 minutes on the other side until fully cooked through.
5. Remove the fritters from the skillet and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil.
6. Serve the fritters hot, optionally accompanied by your choice of dipping sauce such as ranch, spicy mayo, honey mustard, garlic aioli, or marinara sauce.
Storage and Reheating
– Store any leftover fritters in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
– To reheat, use an air fryer at 350°F for 4–5 minutes, a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes on each side, or a microwave (note that the fritters may lose some crispiness with this method).
– For freezing, place the cooked fritters on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. Reheat directly from frozen using an air fryer or oven.
Additional Tips
– Using rotisserie chicken can save preparation time.
– Adding chopped green onions or parsley can enhance the flavor.
– Substituting cheddar cheese for mozzarella will provide a more pronounced taste.
– Consider doubling the recipe if you desire leftovers, as these fritters tend to be popular and disappear quickly.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Combine Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped chicken, shredded cheese, eggs, mayonnaise, flour, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
Shape Patties
Using a spoon or cookie scoop, portion out the mixture and shape it into small patties, flattening them slightly.
Heat the Skillet
Heat a skillet over medium heat and add enough oil to coat the bottom. Once the oil is hot, place the patties in the skillet, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan.
Cook the Fritters
Cook each fritter for 3–4 minutes on one side until golden brown, then flip and cook for an additional 3–4 minutes on the other side until fully cooked through.
Drain Excess Oil
Remove the fritters from the skillet and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil.
Serve the Fritters
Serve the fritters hot, optionally accompanied by your choice of dipping sauce such as ranch, spicy mayo, honey mustard, garlic aioli, or marinara sauce.
Storage and Reheating
Refrigeration
Store any leftover fritters in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating Methods
To reheat, use an air fryer at 350°F for 4–5 minutes, a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes on each side, or a microwave (note that the fritters may lose some crispiness with this method).
Freezing Instructions
For freezing, place the cooked fritters on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. Reheat directly from frozen using an air fryer or oven.
Additional Tips
Use Rotisserie Chicken
Using rotisserie chicken can save preparation time.
Enhance Flavor
Adding chopped green onions or parsley can enhance the flavor.
Cheese Substitution
Substituting cheddar cheese for mozzarella will provide a more pronounced taste.
Double the Recipe
Consider doubling the recipe if you desire leftovers, as these fritters tend to be popular and disappear quickly.
Cook techniques
Mixing Ingredients
Incorporate all ingredients in a large mixing bowl until the mixture is uniform. This ensures even distribution of flavors and texture.
Forming Patties
Use a spoon or cookie scoop to portion and shape the mixture into small patties. Flatten them slightly for even cooking.
Frying
Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook patties for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown. Ensure not to overcrowd the pan for better frying.
Absorbing Excess Oil
After frying, place fritters on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil, keeping them crispy.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the fritters hot, paired with various dipping sauces to enhance the meal experience.
FAQ
Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe?
Yes, using leftover or rotisserie chicken is a great way to save time and add flavor.
What are some recommended dipping sauces?
Consider serving the fritters with ranch, spicy mayo, honey mustard, garlic aioli, or marinara sauce.
How can I store leftover fritters?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
What is the best way to reheat fritters?
Reheat fritters in an air fryer at 350°F for 4–5 minutes, or in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes on each side.
Can I freeze the fritters?
Yes, freeze cooked fritters on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. Reheat directly from frozen.
What can I add to enhance the flavor?
Incorporating chopped green onions or parsley can enhance the flavor of the fritters.
Conclusion
The chicken fritters made from the combination of tender chicken, gooey cheese, and savory spices result in a delicious and satisfying dish that is perfect for any meal. With a crispy exterior and a soft, flavorful interior, these fritters can be enjoyed as an appetizer, main course, or snack. They are easy to prepare and versatile, making them an excellent addition to your recipe collection.
Chicken and Vegetable Fritters
Combine cooked chicken with grated zucchini, carrots, or bell peppers for a nutritious twist. The added veggies not only enhance the flavor but also boost the nutritional value.
Baked Chicken Fritters
For a healthier version, bake the fritters in the oven instead of frying them. Just place the patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake at 400°F for about 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Spicy Chicken Fritters
Add some chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes into the mixture for an extra kick. Serve with a cooling yogurt sauce to balance the heat.
Endless Cheese Variations
Experiment with different types of cheese such as pepper jack, gouda, or feta to alter the flavor profile of the fritters.
Herbed Chicken Fritters
Incorporate fresh herbs like cilantro, basil, or dill into the mixture for a burst of fresh flavor and added color to your fritters.
Asian-Inspired Fritters
Include sesame oil and soy sauce in the mixture, along with green onions and ginger, for a delightful Asian twist on the classic fritter.
BBQ Chicken Fritters
Mix in some barbecue sauce into the chicken mixture for a smoky, tangy flavor. Pair with ranch dressing or coleslaw for serving for a complete meal.
Breakfast Chicken Fritters
Serve these fritters with eggs and avocado for a hearty breakfast option. You can also add a touch of maple syrup for a sweet-savory combination.
