Crispy Chicken Fritters Recipe
If you have leftover shredded chicken or canned chicken on hand, these crispy chicken fritters are a delicious and easy way to transform those leftovers into a tasty treat. These fritters are sure to be a hit with the whole family—just like grandpa who couldn’t resist having three of them! The perfect mix of flavors and textures makes this a simple yet satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Leftover shredded chicken or drained canned chicken | 25 ounces (or 1 ½ cups) |
| Dijon mustard | 1 teaspoon |
| Large egg | 1 |
| Dried thyme | ⅛ teaspoon |
| Breadcrumbs | ¼ cup |
| Onion powder | ¼ teaspoon |
| Garlic powder | ¼ teaspoon |
| Salt | To taste |
| Black pepper | To taste |
| Oil (vegetable or olive oil) | Enough to cover the bottom of the skillet |
Preparation:
1. Combine the Chicken Mixture:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, Dijon mustard, egg, breadcrumbs, dried thyme, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Mix everything together until it forms a sticky, cohesive mixture.
2. Form the Fritters:
- Shape the chicken mixture into small patties, around 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter, using your hands or a spoon. You can make them as thick or as thin as you like, but try to keep them uniform in size for even cooking.
3. Heat the Oil:
- Heat enough vegetable or olive oil in a skillet over medium heat to cover the bottom of the pan. Allow the oil to heat up until it’s hot but not smoking.
4. Fry the Fritters:
- Carefully place the chicken patties in the hot oil. Cook them for 3-4 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
- Flip them gently using a spatula, and cook the other side until it’s equally golden brown and crispy.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
- Remove the fritters from the skillet and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil.
- Serve the fritters with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ranch dressing, ketchup, or a spicy aioli.
Additional Suggestions:
- Dipping Sauce Ideas: Try a tangy honey mustard sauce or even a creamy garlic dip for extra flavor.
- Sides to Pair: These fritters pair wonderfully with a simple green salad, mashed potatoes, or even some homemade fries.
- Vegan Version: If you’re looking for a vegetarian version, you can substitute the chicken with mashed chickpeas or tofu for a plant-based twist.
Q&A:
Q1: Can I use fresh chicken instead of leftover chicken?
- Answer: Yes! You can cook fresh chicken (grilled or boiled) and shred it for this recipe. Leftover chicken is just a convenient option, but fresh chicken works just as well.
Q2: Can I make these fritters ahead of time?
- Answer: Yes, you can prep the fritters in advance. Form the patties and refrigerate them until you’re ready to cook. This can help save time on busy days, and they’ll still turn out crispy and delicious.
Q3: How do I know when the fritters are cooked through?
- Answer: The fritters will be golden brown on the outside and crispy. If you’re unsure, you can cut one open to ensure it’s heated through and cooked all the way to the center. As long as they’re golden on both sides, they should be perfectly cooked.
Q4: Can I bake these instead of frying them?
- Answer: Yes, you can bake the fritters at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes, flipping them halfway through. This will give them a less oily, crispy finish but will still be delicious.
Q5: Can I use gluten-free breadcrumbs?
- Answer: Absolutely! Gluten-free breadcrumbs work perfectly as a substitute if you’re following a gluten-free diet.
Q6: What should I serve with these fritters?
- Answer: These fritters go great with a side of roasted vegetables, a crisp salad, or some homemade mashed potatoes. You can also serve them with a refreshing dip, such as ranch, tzatziki, or a spicy mayo.
Enjoy your crispy, golden chicken fritters!
Perfect for leftovers, a snack, or a light meal that will leave everyone asking for more!