Crispy Cheesy Chicken Fritters
Tender shredded chicken, melty cheese, and savory herbs, all pan-fried to golden, crispy perfection. These fritters are irresistibly cheesy, moist, and perfect as a snack, appetizer, or main dish. Serve with your favorite dip for pure comfort food joy.
INGREDIENTS
For the Fritters
· 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works great)
· 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or Monterey Jack, Colby Jack)
· ⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese
· ¼ cup finely chopped onion or green onion
· ¼ cup finely chopped fresh parsley or dill
· 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
· ⅓ cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free 1:1 flour)
· ⅓ cup panko breadcrumbs (or regular breadcrumbs)
· 2 cloves garlic, minced
· 1 tsp paprika
· ½ tsp baking powder (for lightness)
· Salt and black pepper to taste
· Optional add-ins: ½ cup thawed frozen corn, ¼ cup cooked crumbled bacon, diced jalapeños
For Frying
· ¼ cup vegetable oil, avocado oil, or enough to coat the skillet
For Serving
· Dipping sauces: Ranch, honey mustard, BBQ, sour cream, or sriracha mayo
· Lemon wedges
· Extra chopped herbs
INSTRUCTIONS
Step 1: Mix the Batter
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cheddar, Parmesan, onion, parsley, garlic, paprika, baking powder, salt, and pepper.
- Add the beaten eggs, flour, and breadcrumbs. Mix gently but thoroughly until everything is evenly moistened and holds together when pressed.
Step 2: Shape the Fritters
- Using damp hands or a scoop, form the mixture into small patties, about ¼ cup each, pressing firmly to help them hold shape. You should get 10-12 fritters.
- Place them on a plate or tray. If the mixture feels too wet, add 1-2 more tablespoons of flour or breadcrumbs.
Step 3: Pan-Fry to Golden Crisp
- Heat oil in a large non-stick or cast-iron skillet over medium heat.
- Once the oil is hot (a breadcrumb sizzles), add fritters in a single layer, without crowding. Cook in batches if needed.
- Fry for 3-4 minutes per side, until deeply golden brown and crisp on both sides.
- Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Step 4: Serve
- Serve immediately while hot and crispy, with lemon wedges and your favorite dipping sauces.
TOTAL TIME
· Prep: 15 minutes
· Cook: 15 minutes
· Total: 30 minutes
PRO TIPS & VARIATIONS
· Keep Them Together: Press the mixture firmly when shaping. If it’s too wet, add more breadcrumbs; if too dry, add another egg yolk or a spoonful of Greek yogurt.
· Don’t Crowd the Pan: This ensures even browning and prevents steaming.
· Baking Option (Healthier): Preheat oven to 400°F. Place shaped fritters on a greased baking sheet. Lightly spray with oil. Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden.
· Air Fryer Option: Spray basket with oil. Cook at 375°F for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway, until crispy.
· Make Ahead: Shape the fritters and refrigerate on a tray for up to 24 hours before frying. You can also freeze uncooked patties on a tray, then transfer to a bag for up to 1 month. Cook from frozen, adding a few extra minutes.
· Flavor Twists:
· Buffalo Chicken: Add ¼ cup buffalo sauce to the mix, and use blue cheese dressing for dipping.
· Greek Style: Use feta cheese instead of cheddar and add 1 tsp dried oregano. Serve with tzatziki.
· Mexican: Add 1 tsp cumin, ½ tsp chili powder, and canned green chiles. Serve with avocado crema.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS
· As an Appetizer: Skewer with toothpicks and serve with multiple dipping sauces.
· For a Meal: Serve on buns as a chicken burger, or alongside a crisp salad, roasted veggies, or mashed potatoes.
· Meal Prep: Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in an air fryer, toaster oven, or skillet to maintain crispiness.
These fritters are the ultimate way to use leftover chicken, delivering maximum cheesy, crispy satisfaction with every bite. Enjoy! 
