Cheesy Chicken Fritters Recipe: A Flavorful Low-Point Delight

Introduction

Indulging in delicious comfort food doesn’t have to derail your healthy eating habits. This Cheesy Chicken Fritters Recipe combines the wholesome goodness of chicken with melty mozzarella and fresh herbs, resulting in a satisfying dish that’s both nutritious and indulgent. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a tasty snack, these fritters are easy to prepare and sure to please.

Nutritional Overview

Servings

  • Total Servings: 6 fritters

Nutrition Information (Per Fritter)

  • Calories: 160 kcal
  • Total Fat: 8g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Cholesterol: 90mg
  • Sodium: 250mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 4g
  • Dietary Fiber: 1g
  • Net Carbs: 3g
  • Protein: 20g

Weight Watchers Points

  • Points: Approximately 5 points per fritter (adjust based on specific brands and quantities).

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make these flavorful fritters:

  • 1.5 lb (700g) skinless boneless chicken breast: Chopped into small pieces for easy mixing and cooking.
  • 2 medium eggs: Bind the ingredients together and add moisture.
  • 1/3 cup (40g) almond flour: A low-carb alternative to traditional flour.
  • 1 cup (110g) shredded mozzarella cheese: For a gooey, cheesy center.
  • 2 tablespoons fresh basil: Finely chopped for a burst of flavor.
  • 2 tablespoons chives: Chopped, to add a mild onion flavor.
  • 2 tablespoons parsley: Chopped, for freshness.
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds depth of flavor.
  • A pinch of sea salt and fresh ground black pepper: To taste.
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil: For frying, can adjust according to preference.

Equipment Needed

Before starting, make sure you have the following tools:

  • Large Mixing Bowl: For combining all the ingredients.
  • Sharp Knife and Cutting Board: For chopping the chicken.
  • Non-Stick Frying Pan: To prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
  • Ice Cream Scoop or Large Spoon: For portioning the fritters.
  • Spatula: For flipping the fritters.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

  1. Chop the Chicken:
  • Place the skinless boneless chicken breast on a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, chop the chicken into tiny, bite-sized pieces. This helps ensure even cooking and makes it easier to mix with the other ingredients.

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients

  1. Combine Ingredients:
  • Transfer the chopped chicken into a large mixing bowl. Add the following ingredients: 1/3 cup almond flour, 2 medium eggs, 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil, 2 tablespoons chopped chives, 2 tablespoons chopped parsley, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, and a pinch of sea salt and fresh ground black pepper.
  • Use a wooden spoon or spatula to stir everything together until well combined. The mixture should be cohesive and sticky, allowing it to hold its shape when formed into fritters.

Step 3: Heat the Oil

  1. Heat the Olive Oil:
  • In a large non-stick frying pan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-low heat. The oil is ready when it shimmers but doesn’t smoke. Adjust the heat as necessary to maintain a consistent temperature.

Step 4: Form the Fritters

  1. Scoop the Mixture:
  • Using an ice cream scoop or a large spoon, scoop out the chicken mixture. Gently transfer it to the hot pan. Use the back of the scoop or spoon to slightly flatten each scoop, forming a fritter shape. Aim for a thickness of about 1 inch.

Step 5: Cook the Fritters

  1. Cook in Batches:
  • Cook the fritters in batches, adding about 4 fritters at a time to the pan to avoid overcrowding. This ensures that they fry evenly and develop a nice golden crust.
  • Fry the fritters for about 6-8 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Adjust the heat if necessary to prevent burning.
  1. Check for Doneness:
  • Ensure the fritters are fully cooked by cutting one open; the chicken should be no longer pink, and the internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).

Step 6: Drain and Serve

  1. Drain Excess Oil:
  • Once cooked, transfer the fritters to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil. This keeps them crispy.
  1. Garnish and Enjoy:
  • Serve the cheesy chicken fritters warm. Garnish with extra chopped herbs if desired, and enjoy them on their own or with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ranch or marinara.

Tips for Success

  • Customize the Herbs: Feel free to substitute or add other herbs like dill or oregano based on your taste preferences.
  • Dipping Sauce: Serve with a low-carb dipping sauce to enhance flavor—homemade ranch or a spicy mayo can be excellent options.
  • Batch Cooking: These fritters can be made in bulk and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or oven for best results.
  • Freezing: Consider freezing the uncooked fritters. Form them, place them on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag. Cook directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Conclusion

These Cheesy Chicken Fritters offer a delightful way to enjoy a savory, satisfying dish while adhering to your health goals. With their high protein content, low carbs, and scrumptious flavors, they make for an ideal meal or snack. Whether you serve them at a gathering or enjoy them as a quick lunch, these fritters are sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy the flavors and health benefits all in one bite!