If you have been searching for an irresistibly delicious dish that’s both comforting and packed with flavor, this Tender Chicken Fritters Recipe is about to become your new go-to. Imagine bites of juicy chicken melded with creamy mozzarella, fresh dill, and just the right amount of seasoning, all held together in a golden, crispy fritter. It’s a perfect blend of texture and taste that makes every forkful an absolute delight. Whether for a family dinner or an impressive appetizer, these fritters are simple to make, yet incredibly satisfying.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role: from the tender chicken pieces that form the heart of the fritters to the fresh dill that adds a wonderful herbal brightness, and let’s not forget the mozzarella for melty, cheesy goodness. All come together with everyday pantry staples to create a dish that feels special without fuss.
- Chicken breasts (1 1/2 lbs, 3 large): Using fresh, boneless, skinless chicken ensures juicy, tender fritters that cook evenly.
- Eggs (2 large): They act as a natural binder, helping hold the mixture together beautifully.
- Mayonnaise (5 Tbsp): Adds creaminess and keeps the fritters moist during cooking for that perfect tender bite.
- Flour (1/3 cup all-purpose): Provides structure and helps create that light, crispy crust when sautéed.
- Mozzarella cheese (4 oz / 1 1/3 cups shredded): Melts throughout the fritters for richness and gooey texture.
- Fresh dill (1 1/2 Tbsp, chopped): Offers a fragrant, fresh herbal note that brightens the flavor.
- Salt (1/2 tsp) and black pepper (1/8 tsp): Essential for seasoning and balancing the flavors.
- Extra light olive oil (or any high heat oil): Perfect for sautéing to get that golden, irresistible crust without burning.
How to Make Tender Chicken Fritters Recipe
Step 1: Dice the Chicken
Start by cutting your chicken breasts into small, evenly sized pieces about one-third to one-half inch thick. This ensures each bite holds the perfect texture—not too chunky, yet not too finely ground—allowing the moisture of the chicken to shine through in every fritter.
Step 2: Prepare the Batter and Marinate
In a medium bowl, whisk together your eggs, mayonnaise, flour, shredded mozzarella, chopped dill, salt, and pepper until everything is evenly combined. Gently fold in the diced chicken pieces. Cover this mixture with plastic wrap and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least two hours, or even better, overnight. This step is what makes these fritters truly tender and flavorful, as the chicken soaks up all the creamy, cheesy goodness.
Step 3: Sauté to Golden Perfection
Warm a large non-stick skillet over medium heat and add a couple of tablespoons of oil. Once it’s hot, spoon heaping tablespoons of the batter into the pan—using a flat scoop or spoon, gently press down so each fritter forms a nice, even patty. Cook these for 3 to 4 minutes on the first side until golden and crispy, then flip and cook for another 3 minutes uncovered. This method delivers fritters that are crisp on the outside and irresistibly tender inside. Transfer cooked fritters to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
How to Serve Tender Chicken Fritters Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh is best when it comes to garnishing these fritters. A sprinkle of extra chopped dill or a few sprigs of fresh parsley lift the colors and flavors effortlessly. For a zesty touch, add a dollop of tangy sour cream or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice on top. It’s a simple addition that brightens the entire dish.
Side Dishes
Tender Chicken Fritters pair incredibly well with crisp, refreshing sides such as a vibrant green salad or creamy coleslaw. Roasted vegetables or a light cucumber and tomato salad also provide a pleasant contrast, balancing the richness of the fritters with freshness and crunch.
Creative Ways to Present
Think beyond the plate — serve these fritters stacked as mini sliders with a swipe of aioli or your favorite dipping sauce sandwiched between. Alternatively, try arranging them around a bowl of homemade tzatziki or honey mustard dressing for parties. Their bite-sized nature makes them perfect for sharing and impressing your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store any leftover Tender Chicken Fritters in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 3 days, making them a convenient option for quick meals or snacks later in the week without losing their flavor or texture.
Freezing
To freeze, place cooked fritters in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months—perfect for making ahead in batches and enjoying whenever the craving strikes.
Reheating
For the best results, reheat your fritters in a skillet over medium heat to restore their crisp exterior. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep them crispy—though it’s fine in a pinch, the fritters can turn a bit soggy in the microwave.
FAQs
Can I substitute the mozzarella cheese with another cheese?
Absolutely! While mozzarella provides that creamy meltiness, you can try cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even a mix of cheeses for a different flavor profile. Just keep the quantity similar to maintain the texture.
Is it necessary to marinate the chicken fritters? Can I cook them immediately?
Marinating for at least two hours is highly recommended as it allows the flavors to meld and the chicken to become extra tender. However, if you’re short on time, you can cook them right away, though the depth of flavor might be less pronounced.
What oil is best for frying these fritters?
Use an oil with a high smoke point like extra light olive oil, avocado oil, or vegetable oil. These oils tolerate medium heat well, helping your fritters brown beautifully without burning.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs will add a bit more moisture and flavor. Just dice them the same way, and proceed as usual. They might yield an even juicier fritter, which is delightful!
Are these fritters suitable for meal prep lunch boxes?
Definitely! Tender Chicken Fritters hold up well in a lunchbox and can be enjoyed cold or reheated. Pair them with fresh veggies or a dip for a satisfying midday meal.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly cozy and comforting about biting into these golden Tender Chicken Fritters Recipe bites. They combine simple ingredients into a satisfying dish that’s both easy to prepare and great for any occasion. Whether you’re sharing with friends or treating yourself after a long day, I encourage you to give this recipe a try—your taste buds will thank you!
Print
Tender Chicken Fritters Recipe
- Prep Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: 16 fritters
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Tender Chicken Fritters are a delicious and easy-to-make snack or appetizer featuring juicy diced chicken mixed with creamy mayonnaise, mozzarella cheese, and fresh dill. Marinated for maximum flavor and pan-fried until golden brown and crispy on the outside, these fritters make a perfect savory treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
Chicken Fritters
- 1 1/2 lbs (3 large) chicken breasts, diced into 1/3″ to 1/2″ pieces
- 2 large eggs
- 5 Tbsp mayonnaise (about 1/3 cup)
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour (or cornstarch or potato starch)
- 4 oz (1 1/3 cups) shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 1/2 Tbsp chopped fresh dill
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/8 tsp black pepper (or to taste)
- Extra light olive oil or any high-heat cooking oil for sautéing
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Using a sharp knife, dice the chicken breasts into pieces measuring about 1/3 to 1/2 inch thick. Set the diced chicken aside for later use.
- Make the Batter and Marinate: In a medium bowl, combine the eggs, mayonnaise, flour, shredded mozzarella cheese, chopped dill, salt, and black pepper. Stir well until the mixture is fully combined. Fold the diced chicken into this batter. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to marinate.
- Heat the Pan and Cook Fritters: Heat a large non-stick skillet over medium heat and add 2 tablespoons of oil. When the oil is hot, scoop heaping tablespoons of the chicken mixture using a flat ice cream scoop or spoon onto the skillet. Use the back of the spoon to gently flatten each fritter slightly. Sauté the fritters uncovered for 3 to 4 minutes on the first side until golden brown, then flip and cook for another 3 minutes until golden and cooked through.
- Repeat and Drain: Continue cooking the remaining fritters in the same manner, adding more oil if necessary. Once cooked, transfer the fritters to a dish lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil before serving.
Notes
- Marinating the chicken mixture overnight enhances the flavor and tenderness of the fritters.
- You can substitute the flour with cornstarch or potato starch for a gluten-free option.
- Use any high-heat cooking oil such as canola, sunflower, or avocado oil for sautéing.
- Ensure the skillet is hot before adding the mixture to get a crispy golden exterior.
- Serve the fritters with a dipping sauce like ranch, tzatziki, or your favorite condiment for added flavor.
