Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Flavorful and Juicy: The combination of tender chicken pieces, melted mozzarella, and fresh dill creates a moist and flavorful fritter.
- Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these fritters are quick to assemble and cook.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy them on their own, with a dipping sauce like garlic aioli, or as a protein addition to salads and sandwiches.
Ingredients
- 1½ lbs chicken breasts (approximately 3 large breasts)
- 2 large eggs
- ⅓ cup mayonnaise
- ⅓ cup all-purpose flour (substitute with cornstarch or potato starch for a gluten-free option)
- 4 oz shredded mozzarella cheese (about 1⅓ cups)
- 1½ tablespoons chopped fresh dill
- ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ⅛ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons extra light olive oil (or any high-heat cooking oil) for sautéing
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Optional Garlic Aioli Dip:
- ⅓ cup mayonnaise
- 1 garlic clove, pressed
- ½ tablespoon lemon juice
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ⅛ teaspoon black pepper
Directions
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Using a sharp knife, dice the chicken breasts into ⅓-inch thick pieces and place them in a large mixing bowl. (Tip: Partially freezing the chicken can make it easier to slice.)
- Mix the Batter:
- To the bowl with diced chicken, add the eggs, mayonnaise, flour, shredded mozzarella, chopped dill, salt, and black pepper. Stir until all ingredients are well combined.
- Cover the mixture with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld and the mixture to firm up.
- Cook the Fritters:
- Heat a large non-stick skillet over medium heat and add 2 tablespoons of oil.
- Once the oil is hot, drop heaping tablespoons of the chicken mixture into the skillet, spacing them evenly.
- Gently flatten the tops of the fritters with the back of a spoon to form patties.
- Sauté the fritters uncovered for 3–4 minutes on the first side until golden brown, then flip and cook for an additional 3 minutes on the other side until the chicken is fully cooked through.
- Repeat with the remaining mixture, adding more oil to the skillet as needed.
- Prepare the Garlic Aioli Dip (Optional):
- In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, pressed garlic, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Stir until smooth.
- Serve:
- Serve the warm cheesy chicken fritters with the garlic aioli dip on the side.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: Approximately 4 servings
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes (plus 2 hours refrigeration)
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes (excluding refrigeration time)
Variations
- Herb Substitutions: Replace dill with parsley, cilantro, or chives for a different flavor profile.
- Cheese Options: Try using cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend of cheeses instead of mozzarella.
- Spicy Kick: Add finely chopped jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the mixture for some heat.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Place cooled fritters in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. Alternatively, microwave on medium power for 1–2 minutes, though this may result in a softer texture.
- Freezing: Arrange cooked fritters in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat from frozen in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 15–20 minutes.
FAQs
Can I use ground chicken instead of diced chicken?
Yes, ground chicken can be used, but diced chicken provides a better texture and juiciness in the fritters.
Do I have to refrigerate the mixture before cooking?
Refrigerating helps the mixture firm up, making it easier to handle and enhancing the flavor. It’s recommended but not mandatory if you’re short on time.
Can I bake these fritters instead of frying?
Yes, you can bake them in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) on a parchment-lined baking sheet for about 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and cooked through.
What dipping sauces pair well with these fritters?
Apart from garlic aioli, these fritters pair well with ranch dressing, honey mustard, or a spicy sriracha mayo.
Can I add vegetables to the mixture?
Finely chopped vegetables like
Print
Cheesy Chicken Fritters
- Total Time: 35 minutes (excluding refrigeration)
- Yield: Approximately 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Cheesy Chicken Fritters are juicy and flavorful patties made with diced chicken, mozzarella cheese, and fresh herbs. These versatile fritters are perfect as an appetizer, main dish, or snack and pair beautifully with garlic aioli or your favorite dipping sauce.
Ingredients
For the Fritters:
- 1½ lbs chicken breasts (about 3 large breasts), diced
- 2 large eggs
- ⅓ cup mayonnaise
- ⅓ cup all-purpose flour (or cornstarch for gluten-free)
- 4 oz shredded mozzarella cheese (about 1⅓ cups)
- 1½ tablespoons chopped fresh dill
- ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ⅛ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or other high-heat cooking oil
Optional Garlic Aioli Dip:
- ⅓ cup mayonnaise
- 1 garlic clove, pressed
- ½ tablespoon lemon juice
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ⅛ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Dice the chicken breasts into ⅓-inch pieces and place in a large bowl. (Tip: Partially freeze the chicken for easier slicing.)
- Mix the Batter:
- Add eggs, mayonnaise, flour, mozzarella, dill, salt, and black pepper to the chicken. Mix thoroughly until well combined.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
- Cook the Fritters:
- Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add 2 tablespoons of oil.
- Drop heaping tablespoons of the chicken mixture into the skillet, spacing them apart.
- Flatten slightly with the back of a spoon.
- Cook for 3–4 minutes on the first side until golden brown, then flip and cook for another 3 minutes until fully cooked. Repeat with the remaining mixture, adding more oil as needed.
- Prepare the Garlic Aioli Dip (Optional):
- Mix mayonnaise, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl until smooth.
- Serve:
- Serve the warm fritters with garlic aioli or your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
- Customization: Use herbs like parsley, cilantro, or chives for different flavors. Add a spicy kick with jalapeños or red pepper flakes.
- Cheese Substitutes: Swap mozzarella for cheddar or Monterey Jack for a different twist.
- Refrigeration: Chilling the mixture helps it firm up, making it easier to shape and cook.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus 2 hours refrigeration)
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course, Appetizer
- Method: Pan-Frying
- Cuisine: American