Cheesy Chicken Fritters – Tasty Recipes

Gathering around the table for a meal is more than just eating; it’s an experience that brings people together, creating memories that linger long after the plates have been cleared. Among the myriad of dishes that can light up such gatherings, Cheesy Chicken Fritters stand out as a delightful option. This recipe combines the tender juiciness of chicken breasts with the irresistible meltiness of mozzarella cheese, all seasoned to perfection with fresh dill, salt, and a hint of black pepper. The result is a dish that promises to be a hit at any meal, whether it’s a casual family dinner or a more festive gathering.

The beauty of this recipe lies not only in its delicious outcome but also in its versatility. By incorporating simple ingredients like eggs, mayonnaise, and your choice of flour—be it all-purpose, cornstarch, or potato starch for a gluten-free option—you’re left with a batter that’s both easy to prepare and adaptable to dietary needs. The process involves dicing chicken into small, bite-sized pieces, mixing them with the rest of the ingredients, and then frying to achieve that perfect golden crust with a gooey, cheesy center. Each bite is a burst of flavor, enhanced by the fresh dill and the smooth, complementary garlic aioli dip on the side.

What sets this dish apart is not just its flavors but also the moments it helps create. Cooking these cheesy chicken fritters could turn into a fun family activity, with everyone lending a hand in preparing the meal. It’s recipes like these that remind us of the joy of cooking and the warmth of sharing a meal with loved ones. So, whether you’re a seasoned chef or a novice in the kitchen, this Cheesy Chicken Fritters recipe is a heartwarming addition to your culinary repertoire, guaranteed to bring smiles and satisfaction to your dining table.

Ingredients for Chicken Fritters:

Chicken Breasts: 1 1/2 lbs (about 3 large breasts). For easier slicing, partially freeze the chicken breasts before dicing.
Eggs: 2 large, to help bind the ingredients.
Mayonnaise: 1/3 cup, to add moisture and flavor.
Flour: 1/3 cup all-purpose flour. For a gluten-free option, you can use cornstarch or potato starch.
Mozzarella Cheese: 4 oz (about 1 1/3 cups shredded), to add cheesy goodness.
Fresh Dill: 1 1/2 tablespoons, chopped, for a hint of freshness.
Salt: 1/2 teaspoon, or to taste, for seasoning.
Black Pepper: 1/8 teaspoon, to add a bit of spice.
Extra Light Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons, for sautéing (or any high-heat cooking oil).

Ingredients for Garlic Aioli Dip (Optional):

Mayonnaise: 1/3 cup, as the base of the dip.
Garlic: 1 clove, pressed, for a strong garlic flavor.
Lemon Juice: 1/2 tablespoon, for acidity.
Salt: 1/4 teaspoon, for seasoning.
Black Pepper: 1/8 teaspoon, for a hint of spice.

Instructions for Chicken Fritters:

Prep the Chicken: Using a sharp knife, dice the chicken breasts into 1/3″ thick pieces. This size ensures that the chicken cooks quickly and evenly. Place the diced chicken in a large mixing bowl. Tip: Partially freezing the chicken breasts makes them easier to slice neatly.
Mix the Fritter Batter: To the bowl with the chicken, add the eggs, mayonnaise, flour (or gluten-free alternative), shredded mozzarella cheese, chopped dill, salt, and black pepper. Stir the mixture thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined. The mixture should be cohesive but still easy to scoop. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or overnight. This chilling step helps the flavors meld and makes the batter easier to handle.
Cook the Fritters: Heat a large non-stick pan over medium heat and add the olive oil. Once the oil is hot, scoop a heaping tablespoon of the chicken mixture into the pan. Use the back of your spoon to slightly flatten the tops of the fritters. Sauté the fritters uncovered for 3-4 minutes on the first side. Then, carefully flip them over and continue to sauté for another 3 minutes on the second side, or until they are golden brown and the chicken is fully cooked through. Test for doneness by cutting a fritter in half; the chicken should be completely white inside. If the fritters are browning too quickly, lower the heat slightly. Repeat this process with the remaining batter, adding more oil to the pan as needed.

Instructions for Garlic Aioli Dip:

Prepare the Aioli: In a small bowl or measuring cup, combine the mayonnaise, pressed garlic, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Stir together until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Adjust the seasoning to taste. This dip is a perfect complement to the savory, cheesy fritters, providing a creamy, garlicky contrast.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve the cheesy chicken fritters hot from the pan, accompanied by the garlic aioli dip for dipping.
These fritters can be a great appetizer, snack, or even a main course when paired with a salad or your favorite vegetables.

Recipe Notes:

Storage: Leftover fritters can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan over medium heat to maintain their crispiness.
Freezing: You can freeze the uncooked fritter mixture or the cooked fritters for later use. If freezing the mixture, form the fritters and place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring to a freezer-safe bag. If freezing cooked fritters, allow them to cool completely before freezing. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as desired.