These Cheesy Chicken Fritters are a tasty and satisfying low carb dinner option that’s perfect for any night of the week. With juicy chicken, melty cheese, and a little bit of seasoning, they come together into crispy, golden fritters that are both flavorful and filling.
I love making these fritters when I want something quick but still special. They’re easy to whip up, and the cheese inside makes each bite wonderfully gooey. One little trick I use is to press the fritters gently as they cook so they get extra crispy on the outside while staying soft and tender inside.
Serving these with a simple salad or some steamed veggies makes for a complete meal that doesn’t leave you feeling heavy. They’re also a big hit with friends and family, especially if you want to keep dinner on the lighter side without missing out on flavor. I often find myself making a double batch because they’re just so good!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Chicken: This is the base for the fritters and keeps them light. Use ground turkey or pork if you want a different flavor or more fat for juiciness.
Cheese: Cheddar adds sharpness, but mozzarella works well for a milder taste. Parmesan adds a nice nutty flavor. Feel free to mix your favorites.
Almond Flour: It acts as a binder without carbs. If unavailable, crushed pork rinds or coconut flour can work, but adjust amounts to get the right consistency.
Fresh Herbs & Veggies: Parsley, red bell pepper, and green onions add freshness and color. You can swap parsley for cilantro or chives and the pepper for finely diced zucchini or jalapeños for some heat.
How Do I Get Crispy, Well-Formed Chicken Fritters?
Getting perfect fritters means combining the right mixture and cooking with care. Here’s what helps:
- Mix ingredients well but don’t overwork the meat, or it can get tough.
- Use a non-stick skillet and heat the oil to medium before adding fritters to prevent sticking.
- Shape patties firmly but not packed too tight.
- Cook without crowding the pan to maintain heat and crispness.
- Press fritters gently with a spatula during cooking to flatten slightly and create a golden crust.
- Flip carefully and only once if possible to keep them intact.
With these tips, you’ll get fritters that are crispy outside and tender inside every time.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large mixing bowl – perfect for combining all your ingredients evenly without making a mess.
- Non-stick skillet – helps cook fritters evenly and prevents sticking for easy flipping.
- Spatula – a sturdy one lets you press and turn fritters gently without breaking them.
- Measuring cups and spoons – keep ingredient amounts accurate for best results.
- Paper towels – great for draining excess oil and keeping fritters crispy.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ground chicken for ground turkey or pork to change the protein flavor while keeping it low carb.
- Add chopped spinach or kale for a boost of greens and extra nutrients inside the fritters.
- Mix in some diced jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper to add a mild spicy kick.
- Use different cheeses like pepper jack for heat or feta for a tangy twist that pairs well with herbs.
Low Carb Cheesy Chicken Fritters Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground chicken breast
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or mozzarella for milder flavor)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup almond flour (for low carb binding)
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup finely diced red bell pepper
- 2 green onions, finely sliced
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2-3 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil for frying
- Lemon wedges, for serving
- Fresh greens or salad, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
Preparing and cooking these cheesy chicken fritters will take about 20-25 minutes. Mixing the ingredients just takes 5-7 minutes, then frying each batch for 4-5 minutes per side. It’s a quick, tasty dinner option that can be on your table in under half an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large bowl, add the ground chicken, shredded cheddar, grated Parmesan, almond flour, and egg. Stir in the minced garlic, fresh parsley, diced red bell pepper, and green onions. Sprinkle the smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, and pepper on top. Mix everything well until all parts are evenly combined.
2. Cook the Fritters:
Heat 2-3 tablespoons of your chosen oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Scoop about 2-3 tablespoons of the chicken mixture and shape it into small patties or fritters. Place them in the hot skillet without overcrowding so they cook evenly. Fry each side for 4-5 minutes until golden and cooked through. Press down gently with a spatula to help make them nice and crispy.
3. Serve and Enjoy:
Remove the fritters and place them on paper towels to drain any extra oil. Serve warm with lemon wedges and a side of fresh greens or low-carb salad. These fritters are crispy outside and cheesy inside — perfect for a satisfying low-carb dinner.
Can I Use Frozen Ground Chicken for These Fritters?
Yes, you can! Just be sure to fully thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight and pat it dry before mixing. This helps prevent excess moisture, which can make the fritters soggy.
What’s a Good Substitute for Almond Flour?
If you don’t have almond flour, crushed pork rinds are a great low-carb alternative and add extra crispiness. Coconut flour works too but use less since it absorbs more moisture—start with about half the almond flour amount.
How Should I Store Leftover Fritters?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a skillet over medium heat to keep the outside crispy or microwave briefly if you’re short on time.
Can I Make These Fritters Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can mix the ingredients and shape the patties, then refrigerate them covered for up to 24 hours before cooking. Alternatively, cook the fritters and reheat just before serving to save time.
