Chicken Fritters (With Leftover Chicken)

Let me share my favorite way to transform leftover chicken into something amazing! These chicken fritters are absolutely incredible combining tender chicken with creamy cheese for the most delicious quick meal. I love how they come together in just 20 minutes making them perfect for busy days when you need something filling and tasty.

The Magic Behind These Fritters

What makes these fritters so special is how they rescue even the driest leftover chicken. The secret is in the cream cheese it keeps everything perfectly moist while the mozzarella adds that irresistible cheesy goodness. Plus they're so adaptable you can easily adjust them to fit any dietary needs.

Your Fritter Essentials

• Shredded Chicken: Leftover rotisserie chicken breast works perfectly, though any type of cooked chicken will do.
• Egg: Acts as a binder to hold the fritters together.
• Cream Cheese: Adds moisture to prevent dryness and enhances the flavor.
• Mozzarella Cheese: Provides a cheesy, melty texture.
• Flour: All-purpose flour helps the fritters hold their shape.
• Salt: Optional, especially if serving to young children.
• Oil or Butter: For frying the fritters to golden perfection.

Let's Make Some Magic

Step 1 - Chop the Chicken

Add leftover chicken to a bowl and chop it into small pieces using kitchen scissors or a knife. Aim for about 1.5 cups of finely chopped chicken.

Step 2 - Mix the Ingredients

Combine chopped chicken, cream cheese, mozzarella, egg, flour, and salt (optional) in a bowl. Mix until well combined.

Step 3 - Heat the Pan

Heat 1 tablespoon of oil or butter in a frying pan over medium-low heat.

Step 4 - Form and Cook the Fritters

Scoop heaping tablespoon-sized portions onto the pan. Flatten slightly with the back of a spoon or spatula to shape into fritters. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until golden and crispy.

Step 5 - Serve and Cool

Transfer cooked fritters to a paper towel-lined plate to cool slightly. Serve warm with your favorite dip.

Keep Your Fritters Fresh

These beauties stay good in the fridge for a couple of days in an airtight container. I love making extra to freeze just remember to put some parchment paper between them so they don't stick together. When you're ready to enjoy them again a quick zap in the microwave brings them right back to life.

My Best Kitchen Secrets

Kitchen scissors are your best friend when chopping the chicken it's so much quicker than using a knife. Watch those fritters closely as they cook they should be perfectly golden brown. I love adding different seasonings to switch things up paprika and garlic powder are my favorites.

Common Questions Answered

I often get asked if dark meat works and absolutely it does even better sometimes! These are super versatile you can even make them with turkey or try a veggie version. The texture is wonderfully crispy outside and tender inside perfect for everyone from toddlers to adults. We love them with all sorts of dips but ranch and ketchup are our favorites.

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Frequently Asked Questions

→ What kind of leftover chicken works best for these fritters?

Any cooked chicken works well - roasted, grilled, or even rotisserie chicken. Just make sure it's well chopped and not too dry. If using breast meat, you might want to add a touch more cream cheese for moisture.

→ Can I make these fritters ahead of time?

You can prepare the mixture up to a day ahead and store it covered in the refrigerator. For best results, cook the fritters just before serving to maintain their crispy exterior. Already cooked fritters can be reheated in a low-temp oven until warm.

→ What can I serve with these fritters?

These fritters pair well with dipping sauces like ranch, honey mustard, or marinara. You can also serve them with a fresh salad or coleslaw for a complete meal. They make great appetizers or can be used in sliders.

→ How can I make sure the fritters stay together while cooking?

Make sure your pan is properly heated before adding the fritters, and don't flip them until they're golden on the bottom. The egg and flour act as binders, while the melted cheese helps hold everything together.

→ What seasonings can I add to these fritters?

Try adding garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, or cajun seasoning for extra flavor. Fresh herbs like parsley or chives work well too. Just remember the chicken might already be seasoned from its first cooking.

Conclusion

These easy chicken fritters combine leftover shredded chicken with cream cheese and mozzarella for a quick, crispy treat. Perfect for using up leftover chicken in a new, delicious way.