These Easy Chicken Zucchini Fritters are a fun and tasty way to eat your veggies! Made with juicy chicken and fresh zucchini, they’re crispy on the outside and soft inside.
Perfect as a snack or a light meal, I love dipping them in my favorite sauce. Trust me, these fritters are so good you’ll want to make a double batch! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken is my go-to for convenience! If you don’t have cooked chicken, you can quickly poach or bake some chicken breasts, then shred them.
Zucchini: Fresh zucchini brings moisture and flavor. If you’re in a pinch, yellow squash can work as a substitute. Just remember to squeeze out the moisture either way!
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a lovely flavor. If you prefer, you can use Pecorino Romano or even a dairy-free option if you’re avoiding dairy.
Flour: All-purpose flour is standard, but for a gluten-free version, you can use almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend. Just adjust as needed for consistency!
Eggs: Eggs help bind the mixture. If you need a vegan option, flax eggs or chia eggs work well (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed or chia seeds mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water = 1 egg).
How Can I Make Sure My Fritters Are Crispy?
The key to crispy fritters lies in removing excess moisture from the zucchini. Here’s how to ensure they are perfectly crispy:
- Grate the zucchini and then place it in a kitchen towel or cheesecloth.
- Squeeze out all the liquid; this prevents the mixture from becoming soggy.
- Fry them in hot oil. Medium heat works best to get that beautiful golden brown without burning.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet; cook in batches if necessary. This helps maintain the frying temperature.
Follow these tips, and your fritters will be deliciously crispy every time!
Easy Chicken Zucchini Fritters
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded or finely chopped
- 2 medium zucchinis, grated
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- Olive oil, for frying
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 15-20 minutes to cook, making it a quick and easy meal option. In total, you’ll spend about 30-35 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a busy day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prep the Zucchini:
Start by grating the zucchinis. Then, place the grated zucchini in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth. Squeeze out as much moisture as possible. This step is super important; it helps keep your fritters crispy!
2. Mix Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, grated zucchini, Parmesan cheese, flour, eggs, minced garlic, chopped onion, parsley (if using), salt, black pepper, and paprika. Stir everything together until it’s well mixed.
3. Heat the Skillet:
In a large skillet, heat a few tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. You want enough oil to cover the bottom of the skillet so the fritters can fry up nice and crispy!
4. Shape the Fritters:
Take about 2 tablespoons of the mixture and form it into a small patty or fritter. Repeat until all the mixture is shaped.
5. Fry the Fritters:
Carefully place your fritters in the hot oil, flattening them slightly with a spatula. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and crispy. Don’t rush this step—proper frying is the key to delicious fritters!
6. Drain and Serve:
Once cooked, transfer the fritters to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil. Serve them warm, alongside your favorite dipping sauce or fresh salad.
Enjoy your delicious and easy chicken zucchini fritters! They’re packed with flavor and sure to be a hit!
FAQ for Easy Chicken Zucchini Fritters
Can I Use Frozen Chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken! Just make sure to fully thaw it before cooking. You can thaw it overnight in the fridge or use the microwave on the defrost setting. Once thawed, shred or chop it for the recipe.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Absolutely! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or almond flour. This adjustment will keep the fritters delicious while accommodating your dietary needs!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat for the best texture or microwave them briefly until warmed through.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Sure! You can add finely chopped bell peppers, spinach, or grated carrots for extra flavor and nutrients. Just be sure to squeeze excess moisture from any added veggies to keep the fritters crispy!
