These fritters are made from a simple mixture of minced chicken, shredded cheese, and a few pantry ingredients. Once fried, they become beautifully golden and crisp, with a tender, juicy center. They can be served as a party snack, lunch dish, or even a quick dinner with a dipping sauce. The texture is comforting and satisfying, and the cheese creates pockets of melty richness in every bite.
Ingredients
2 cups finely diced or minced chicken breast
1 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar
1 large egg
3 tablespoons mayonnaise
2 tablespoons cornstarch or flour
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
Fresh herbs like parsley or dill (optional)
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Oil for frying
Instructions
Preparing the Mixture
Place the diced chicken in a large mixing bowl. The chicken should be cut into very small pieces or minced so that the fritters hold together properly. Add the egg, mayonnaise, cornstarch or flour, chopped onion, and garlic. Stir well until everything is fully combined.
Fold in the shredded cheese and sprinkle the mixture with paprika, salt, and black pepper. If you enjoy herbs, add finely chopped dill or parsley at this stage to give the fritters a fresh aroma. Mix everything thoroughly. The mixture should be slightly sticky and thick. If it feels too runny, add a little more cornstarch or flour.
Cover the bowl and leave the mixture to rest for about 10 to 15 minutes. This helps the ingredients bind together, making the frying process easier and ensuring the fritters keep their shape.
Frying the Fritters
Heat a generous amount of oil in a frying pan over medium heat. The oil should be hot enough that a small drop of the mixture sizzles immediately when it touches the pan. Using a spoon, scoop portions of the mixture and drop them carefully into the hot oil. Gently flatten each mound with the back of the spoon if you want a more uniform shape.
Cook the fritters for about 3 to 4 minutes on each side or until they turn a deep golden color. They should be crisp on the outside but still juicy inside. Avoid overcrowding the pan because this reduces the temperature of the oil and causes the fritters to absorb more oil.
Once cooked, transfer the fritters onto a plate lined with paper towels. This step helps remove excess oil and keeps the fritters crispy.
Serving Suggestions
These cheesy chicken fritters are perfect on their own, but they become even better with dipping sauces. They pair beautifully with garlic sauce, ranch, sour cream dip, or a simple homemade yogurt sauce with herbs and lemon. The light tanginess of the sauce cuts through the richness of the cheese and creates a balanced bite.
You can serve the fritters warm as an appetizer or appetizer platter. They also make a great addition to sandwiches or wraps, adding a savory crunch. For a complete meal, serve them alongside a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or mashed potatoes.
Tips and Variations
You can change the flavor to match your preferences. Swap chicken for turkey, or use a blend of mozzarella and parmesan for extra flavor. Adding finely chopped bell peppers will give the fritters a sweet note and extra color. If you like a stronger seasoning, increase the garlic or add chili flakes for heat.
These fritters can also be baked instead of fried. Simply arrange the portions on a parchment-lined baking sheet, brush lightly with oil, and bake at 200°C (400°F) for 18 to 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.