Mediterranean Cheesy Chicken Fritters

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Description

Mediterranean Cheesy Chicken Fritters are a crispy, golden delight made with ground chicken, fresh herbs, spices, and gooey cheese. They’re pan-fried until perfectly crunchy on the outside while staying tender and juicy inside. Infused with Mediterranean flavors like garlic, oregano, parsley, and a hint of lemon zest, these fritters are a quick and flavorful protein-packed dish. Perfect as an appetizer, snack, or main course with a side of salad or yogurt dip.

 Ingredients For Mediterranean Cheesy Chicken Fritters

  • 1 lb (450g) ground chicken (or finely chopped chicken breast)

  • 1 cup mozzarella or feta cheese (shredded or crumbled)

  • 1 large egg

  • ½ cup breadcrumbs (or almond flour for low-carb)

  • 2 garlic cloves, minced

  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

  • 1 tbsp fresh dill or basil, chopped

  • 1 tsp dried oregano

  • ½ tsp paprika

  • ½ tsp black pepper

  • ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)

  • 1 tsp lemon zest

  • 2–3 tbsp olive oil (for frying)

 Instructions

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, cheese, egg, breadcrumbs, garlic, parsley, dill, oregano, paprika, salt, pepper, and lemon zest.

  2. Mix well until the ingredients are fully combined and sticky.

  3. With wet hands, shape the mixture into small patties or fritters.

  4. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.

  5. Fry fritters in batches for 3–4 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp: 165°F / 74°C).

  6. Place on a paper towel to remove excess oil.

  7. Serve hot with tzatziki sauce, hummus, or a fresh Mediterranean salad.

 Notes

  • You can substitute ground chicken with ground turkey.

  • For extra cheesy flavor, use a mix of feta and mozzarella.

  • Make the mixture ahead of time and refrigerate for 1–2 hours to help the fritters hold their shape better.

  • To bake instead of fry: Place fritters on a parchment-lined baking sheet, brush lightly with oil, and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 18–20 minutes.

Tips

  • Wet your hands with water or oil before shaping fritters to prevent sticking.

  • Add finely chopped spinach or zucchini for extra nutrition.

  • For a spicier kick, add chili flakes or cayenne pepper.

  • Pair with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving for a burst of brightness.

 Servings

  • Makes 10–12 fritters (about 4 servings).

 Nutritional Info (per serving, ~3 fritters)

  • Calories: ~310

  • Protein: 27g

  • Carbohydrates: 6g

  • Fat: 19g

  • Fiber: 1g

  • Sodium: 420mg

 Benefits

  • High in protein – great for muscle repair and satiety.

  • Mediterranean flavors – heart-healthy herbs and olive oil.

  • Versatile dish – can be served as appetizer, lunch, or dinner.

  • Kid-friendly – cheesy and flavorful, even picky eaters enjoy it.

Q&A

Q1: Can I make these fritters ahead of time?
👉 Yes! You can prepare the mixture and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before cooking, or cook the fritters and reheat in the oven/air fryer.

Q2: Can these be made low-carb?
👉 Replace breadcrumbs with almond flour or crushed pork rinds for a keto-friendly option.

Q3: What dips go best with them?
👉 Tzatziki, garlic yogurt dip, spicy harissa, or hummus pair beautifully.

Q4: Can I freeze them?
👉 Yes, freeze cooked fritters for up to 2 months. Reheat in oven or air fryer until crispy.

Q5: Are they kid-friendly?
👉 Absolutely! The cheesy, mild flavor makes them a hit with kids—just reduce the spices if needed.

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