These Easy Chicken Zucchini Fritters are a tasty way to enjoy veggies and protein all in one bite! With juicy chicken and fresh zucchini, they are crispy on the outside and soft inside.
Don’t be surprised if they disappear in seconds! I love serving them with a dollop of yogurt or ranch dressing for a fun dipping option. Perfect for lunch or a quick snack!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: A star ingredient, zucchini keeps these fritters moist and adds nutrition. If you don’t have zucchini, you can substitute with grated carrots or cauliflower for a different flavor and texture.
Cooked Chicken: Use any cooked chicken here, like rotisserie or leftover chicken. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, chickpeas or black beans work great too.
Flour: All-purpose flour is common, but you can swap it for whole wheat flour or a gluten-free blend if needed. Just remember that different flours may change the texture slightly.
Parmesan Cheese: While optional, I think Parmesan adds a nice, salty flavor. If you’re out, any hard cheese like Pecorino or even nutritional yeast can provide a similar taste.
How Do I Avoid Soggy Fritters?
Sogginess is a common issue with zucchini fritters. The key is to remove excess moisture from the zucchini. Here’s how:
- Grate the zucchini and place it inside a clean kitchen towel.
- Squeeze the towel tightly to get out as much liquid as possible. This step is crucial!
- Ensure that your skillet is hot enough before adding the fritters. This helps seal the outside quickly and keeps them crispy.
By following these steps, you’ll end up with perfectly crispy fritters every time! Enjoy your cooking!
Easy Chicken Zucchini Fritters
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 medium zucchini (about 1 cup grated)
- 1 cup cooked chicken, finely shredded or chopped
- 1/2 small onion, finely chopped or grated
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or dill, chopped (optional)
- Olive oil or vegetable oil, for frying
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and about 15-20 minutes to cook. So, in just about 30 minutes, you’ll have delicious fritters ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Zucchini:
Grate the zucchini using a box grater or food processor. Then, place the grated zucchini in a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth. Squeeze out as much excess moisture as you can. This is important to keep your fritters crispy!
2. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained zucchini, cooked chicken, chopped onion, minced garlic, flour, egg, Parmesan (if you’re using it), chopped parsley or dill, and salt and pepper. Stir everything together until well mixed.
3. Heat the Oil:
Place a generous amount of olive oil or vegetable oil in a large skillet. Heat it over medium heat until hot. You can test it by adding a small drop of the mixture; if it sizzles, the oil is ready!
4. Shape and Cook the Fritters:
Using a tablespoon or your hands, scoop about 2 tablespoons of the mixture for each fritter, shaping them into small patties. Carefully place them in the hot skillet, flattening them slightly with a spatula. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan—work in batches if necessary.
5. Flip and Finish Cooking:
Cook the fritters for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Keep an eye on them, as cooking times may vary based on your stovetop and skillet.
6. Drain and Serve:
When cooked, transfer the fritters to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil. Let them cool slightly before serving.
7. Enjoy!
Serve these warm fritters with your favorite dipping sauce like sour cream, yogurt, or ranch dressing. They are perfect as an appetizer or snack!
Enjoy your crispy, savory chicken zucchini fritters!
FAQ for Easy Chicken Zucchini Fritters
Can I Use Frozen Zucchini for This Recipe?
It’s best to use fresh zucchini for this recipe. However, if you only have frozen zucchini, make sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out as much moisture as possible before using it in the fritters. This will help maintain their texture.
What Can I Substitute for Chicken?
If you prefer a vegetarian option, you can replace the shredded chicken with black beans, chickpeas, or even crumbled tofu. Just make sure to season well to enhance the flavor!
How Should I Store Leftover Fritters?
Store any leftover fritters in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, or in the microwave for a quick option.
Can I Make These Fritters Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture and shape the fritters in advance. Store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before frying. Just be sure to cook them fresh for the best texture!
