These Cheesy Chicken Fritters are a low carb dinner option that’s both satisfying and full of flavor. Crispy on the outside, tender and cheesy on the inside, they’re made with simple ingredients like ground chicken, cheddar cheese, and a few seasonings to keep things tasty and light.
I love making these fritters when I want something quick but still special. They’re super easy to whip up and cook fast, which makes them perfect for busy evenings. Plus, the cheesy center always surprises people and makes the whole dish feel a little extra comforting.
My favorite way to serve these fritters is with a fresh green salad or some steamed veggies on the side. Sometimes, I add a dollop of sour cream or a tangy dipping sauce, which really brings out the flavors and makes dinner feel complete. These fritters are great leftovers too, so I usually make a double batch!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Chicken: This is the main protein and keeps the fritters tender. You can swap it with ground turkey or even ground pork for a different flavor.
Cheddar & Parmesan Cheese: Cheddar adds gooey cheesiness, while Parmesan gives a salty, nutty hint. Use any shredded cheese you like, such as mozzarella or Monterey Jack.
Almond Flour: It’s used as a low carb binder instead of breadcrumbs. Coconut flour works too, but use a bit less as it’s more absorbent.
Fresh Parsley & Garlic: These fresh ingredients brighten the flavor. If you don’t have parsley, try cilantro or chives instead.
How Do You Get Crispy, Golden Fritters Without Falling Apart?
Making fritters that hold together and get crispy requires just the right mix and cooking method:
- Mix well: Combine all ingredients evenly so cheese, herbs, and seasoning reach every bite.
- Use a binder: The almond flour and egg help keep the patties firm while frying.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: Give each fritter space so they brown evenly instead of steaming.
- Medium heat: Cook on medium to get a golden crust without burning. Too high heat can burn outside before inside cooks.
- Flip carefully: Use a wide spatula to gently turn fritters, keeping their shape intact.
With these steps, you’ll get fritters that are crispy outside, tender inside, and packed with cheesy goodness!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large mixing bowl – makes it easy to mix all the ingredients evenly without mess.
- Non-stick skillet or frying pan – helps cook fritters evenly and prevents sticking for a perfect crust.
- Spatula – essential for flipping fritters gently without breaking them apart.
- Measuring cups and spoons – keeps your seasoning and flour amounts accurate for the best results.
- Paper towels – great for draining excess oil after frying to keep fritters crispy.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ground chicken with ground turkey or pork for a different but still juicy flavor.
- Add finely chopped spinach or kale to sneak in some greens without changing taste much.
- Use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for a bit of spicy kick.
- Stir in chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes if you like your fritters with heat.
Low Carb Cheesy Chicken Fritters Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) ground chicken
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large egg
- 2 tbsp almond flour (or coconut flour for low carb)
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 3 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil (for frying)
To Serve:
- Lemon wedges
- Optional: sour cream
- Optional: mixed greens or salad
Time Needed
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 15 minutes to cook, making it a quick and tasty option for dinner or lunch.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, shredded cheddar, Parmesan, chopped parsley, garlic, egg, and almond flour. Add paprika, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well until you have a uniform mixture.
2. Shape the Fritters:
Using your hands or a spoon, form the mixture into small patties about 3 inches in diameter and 1/2 inch thick. Try to make them all roughly the same size for even cooking.
3. Cook the Fritters:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. When the oil is hot, carefully place the fritters into the pan without crowding. Cook for 4 to 5 minutes on each side, until golden brown and fully cooked (internal temperature should be 165°F or 75°C).
4. Drain and Serve:
Remove the fritters from the pan and let them drain on paper towels to absorb excess oil. Serve warm with lemon wedges and a dollop of sour cream if you like. Adding a fresh green salad or steamed veggies makes a perfect low carb meal.
Can I Use Frozen Ground Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen ground chicken, but be sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator overnight before using. This helps ensure even cooking and better texture in the fritters.
Can I Make These Fritters Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare and shape the patties ahead, then refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before cooking. For longer storage, freeze the uncooked patties separated by parchment paper and cook from frozen, adding a few extra minutes per side.
What Can I Substitute for Almond Flour?
If you don’t have almond flour, coconut flour is a great low carb alternative—just use about half the amount since it absorbs more moisture. You can also use crushed pork rinds for extra crunch.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Keep any leftover fritters in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or oven to maintain crispiness, rather than microwaving, which can make them soggy.
