Cheesy Chicken Fritters are a tasty low-carb dinner that’s packed with flavor and texture. These little fritters are crispy on the outside, soft and cheesy on the inside, with tender chicken making up the base. They’re simple to make and perfect for anyone looking for a dinner that’s both satisfying and light on carbs.
I love making these fritters when I want something quick and comforting without turning to pasta or bread. The melty cheese inside adds a creamy touch that makes every bite feel like a treat. Plus, they’re easy to customize—sometimes I throw in a little garlic or herbs to change things up. Cooking them in a hot pan until they’re golden brown gives them that nice crunch that makes eating low carb feel extra good.
My favorite way to serve these fritters is with a fresh side salad or some steamed veggies. They also go great with a dollop of sour cream or your favorite dipping sauce if you want a little extra zing. These cheesy chicken fritters always turn out to be a crowd-pleaser at my table, and they’re perfect for anyone wanting a simple dinner that’s both wholesome and delicious.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breast: Using cooked, shredded chicken is great for texture. Rotisserie chicken works well for ease. You can substitute with ground chicken or turkey if preferred.
Cheese: Cheddar and Parmesan bring flavor and help bind the fritters. You can try mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a mix of cheeses you like.
Almond Flour: This keeps the fritters low carb while holding everything together. If you have nut allergies, coconut flour is a possible swap but use less as it absorbs more moisture.
Herbs and Spices: Parsley, smoked paprika, and onion powder add freshness and warmth. Feel free to swap parsley for cilantro or add chili flakes for a spicy kick.
How Can I Make Crispy Fritters Without Falling Apart?
Getting the perfect crispy outside while keeping the fritter intact can be tricky. Here’s what helps:
- Mix ingredients until sticky but not too wet; add a bit more almond flour if needed.
- Heat your oil well before adding fritters; medium heat works best to cook through without burning.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan so fritters have room to brown properly.
- Flip carefully using a spatula, and cook 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Drain on paper towels to keep them crispy and remove extra oil.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large mixing bowl – perfect for combining all the ingredients evenly without making a mess.
- Non-stick skillet or frying pan – helps achieve that crispy golden crust without sticking.
- Spatula – essential for flipping the fritters gently so they don’t break apart.
- Measuring cups and spoons – make it easy to keep the right balance of spices and almond flour.
- Paper towels – great for draining excess oil after frying to keep fritters crispy.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken for cooked shredded turkey or ground turkey for a leaner variant that’s just as tasty.
- Add chopped spinach or kale for extra greens and a nutritional boost; it blends well with the cheese.
- Mix in chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick you’ll enjoy.
- Use feta or goat cheese instead of cheddar for a tangy twist that pairs nicely with the herbs.
Low Carb Dinner: Cheesy Chicken Fritters Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Fritters:
- 1 lb (450 g) cooked chicken breast, finely shredded or chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a cheese blend you prefer)
- 2 large eggs
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 3 tbsp almond flour (for low carb binding)
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil (for frying)
For Serving:
- Lemon wedges
- Optional: sour cream or herbed yogurt sauce for dipping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 10 minutes to cook. In less than 20 minutes, you’ll have a delicious, cheesy, and low-carb dinner ready to enjoy.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Fritter Mix:
In a large bowl, combine the shredded cooked chicken, shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan, minced garlic, and chopped parsley. Add the eggs, almond flour, smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything well until the mixture is sticky enough to form patties. If it feels too loose, add a little more almond flour.
2. Cook the Fritters:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Using your hands or a spoon, scoop out portions of the mixture and shape into small fritters about 2-3 inches wide and ½ inch thick. Carefully place them in the hot oil. Cook each side for 4-5 minutes until they turn golden brown and crispy on the outside and are heated through.
3. Drain and Serve:
Transfer the cooked fritters to a paper towel-lined plate to remove excess oil. Serve warm with lemon wedges and your choice of sour cream or herbed yogurt sauce for dipping.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large mixing bowl
- Non-stick skillet or frying pan
- Spatula for flipping
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Paper towels to drain excess oil
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken for shredded turkey or ground turkey for a leaner option.
- Add chopped spinach or kale for extra nutrients and color.
- Include chopped jalapeños or cayenne pepper for some heat.
- Try feta or goat cheese instead of cheddar for a tangy twist.
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes! Just make sure to fully thaw the chicken first—either overnight in the fridge or quickly in cold water. Pat it dry before shredding to avoid extra moisture in the fritter mix.
How Do I Store Leftover Fritters?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat to keep them crispy.
Can I Make These Fritters Gluten-Free?
Absolutely! Using almond flour keeps this recipe naturally gluten-free. Just avoid any cheese blends that contain additives with gluten.
What’s the Best Dipping Sauce for Cheesy Chicken Fritters?
Sour cream or a herbed yogurt sauce pairs wonderfully with these fritters. You can also try a low-carb ranch or a squeeze of fresh lemon for extra zest.