Cheesy Chicken Fritters

These Cheesy Chicken Fritters are a flavorful, protein-packed dish perfect for any meal. Tender diced chicken is mixed with gooey mozzarella and fresh dill, then pan-fried to golden perfection. Serve them with a side of homemade garlic aioli for a delightful, tangy finish. Enjoy this dish as an appetizer, main course, or snack for a satisfying treat that everyone will love!

Why You’ll Love It:

Easy and Flavorful: Quick to put together and loaded with cheesy, herby goodness.
Versatile Dish: Serve these fritters as a main course, sandwich filling, or protein for salads.
Kid-Friendly: The melty cheese and mild seasonings make these fritters popular with both kids and adults.
Meal Prep Friendly: Make a batch ahead of time and store them for easy weeknight meals.

Key Ingredients:

Chicken Breasts: Dice the chicken finely for a more uniform texture. Partially freezing the chicken before cutting makes this task easier.
Mozzarella Cheese: Shredded mozzarella brings melty goodness. For a sharper flavor, try adding some shredded Parmesan or cheddar.
Fresh Dill: Adds a pop of fresh, herby flavor. If you’re not a dill fan, substitute with parsley or chives for a different taste.
Mayonnaise: Helps keep the fritters moist and acts as a binder. Greek yogurt can be used as a lighter alternative.
Gluten-Free Option: Use cornstarch or potato starch instead of flour without compromising the texture.
Garlic Aioli: This optional dip brings tanginess and depth. Adjust the amount of garlic and lemon juice to taste.

Complete list of ingredients with quantities and instructions is located in the recipe card below

Instructions:

Prepare the Chicken:
Dice the chicken breasts into small, 1/3-inch pieces. Tip: Partially freezing the chicken beforehand can make it easier to cut.

Mix Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced chicken with 2 eggs, 1/4 cup mayonnaise, 1/3 cup flour, 1 cup shredded mozzarella, 1 tablespoon dill, and season with salt and pepper. Mix well until everything is fully incorporated.

Refrigerate:
Cover the mixture with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. For the best texture and flavor, refrigerate overnight.

Cook the Fritters:
Heat oil in a large non-stick pan over medium heat.
Scoop heaping tablespoons of the chicken mixture into the pan and flatten each slightly with the back of the spoon.
Sauté for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.

Prepare the Aioli:
In a small bowl, combine garlic aioli ingredients and stir until smooth.

Serve:
Serve the fritters hot, accompanied by the garlic aioli on the side if desired. Enjoy!

Serving Suggestions:

Main Dish: Serve with a side of steamed vegetables, roasted sweet potatoes, or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
Wraps or Sandwiches: Stuff the fritters into pita pockets or tortillas with lettuce, tomatoes, and a drizzle of garlic aioli for a delicious wrap.
Appetizer: Serve smaller fritters with toothpicks as a party appetizer alongside a range of dips like tzatziki or spicy sriracha mayo.
Breakfast Addition: Pair with eggs and avocado slices for a hearty breakfast option.

Storage/Meal Prep Tips:

Refrigeration: Store any leftover fritters in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a non-stick pan or oven at 350°F (175°C) to maintain crispness.
Freezing: Lay cooked fritters on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator and reheat as above.
Make-Ahead: Prepare the chicken mixture and refrigerate it overnight for a quick meal the next day. This resting time also helps meld the flavors together.

Variations:

Cheese Swap: Experiment with different cheeses such as cheddar, gouda, or Monterey Jack for varied flavor profiles.
Herb Adjustments: Substitute dill with basil, cilantro, or green onions to switch up the taste.
Veggie Boost: Add finely chopped bell peppers, spinach, or grated zucchini for extra nutrition.
Spicy Fritters: Mix in a pinch of red pepper flakes or finely diced jalapeños for some heat.
Crusty Coating: Coat the fritters in a light layer of panko breadcrumbs before frying for extra crunch.

Conclusion:

These Cheesy Chicken Fritters are guaranteed to become a new family favorite. Their savory, cheesy flavor and easy preparation make them perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings. Whether served on their own, accompanied by the tangy garlic aioli, or paired with your favorite side dishes, these fritters will be a hit.