Parmesan and Mozzarella Chicken Fritters
Introduction
Step into the world of culinary excellence with our Parmesan and Mozzarella Chicken Fritters – a delightful fusion of flavors that promises to tantalize your taste buds. This meticulously crafted recipe transforms humble chicken into bite-sized wonders, combining the richness of Parmesan and mozzarella with the savory goodness of garlic and carefully selected seasonings. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or looking for an impressive appetizer for a special gathering, these fritters are bound to become a household favorite.
Ingredients
- 16 oz boneless skinless chicken breast (weighed raw)
- 1 egg
- 3 tablespoons flour
- 1.5 tablespoons Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup reduced-fat shredded mozzarella cheese (e.g., Trader Joe’s)
- 1 garlic clove (minced)
- Fresh basil (chopped, a few tablespoons)
- 1 tablespoon chives (dried)
- 1 tablespoon parsley
- Pinch of salt & pepper
- ¼ teaspoon chili powder
- 2 teaspoons cooking oil (plus additional cooking spray)
Preparation
Step 1: Preparing the Chicken
Begin by cutting the chicken into exceptionally small pieces, ensuring that they are bite-sized for a delightful eating experience. Place the chicken pieces in a bowl.
Step 2: Mixing Ingredients
In the same bowl, add the egg, flour, Parmesan cheese, mozzarella cheese, minced garlic, and a selection of your favorite seasonings (basil, chives, parsley, salt, pepper, and chili powder). Using a spoon, meticulously mix the ingredients until they form a cohesive and well-combined mixture.
Step 3: Cooking the Fritters
- Heat a large frying pan over medium to low heat. Add a modest amount of oil to the pan, ensuring it is evenly distributed. Consider using cooking spray to prevent the fritters from sticking, as the recipe uses minimal oil.
- Once the pan is sufficiently heated, spoon approximately ¼ cup of the chicken mixture per fritter into the pan. Be mindful not to overcrowd the pan to allow for even cooking. A suggestion is to cook three fritters at a time.
- Cook the fritters for about 10 minutes each, turning them a few times to achieve a golden-brown perfection. It is crucial to maintain the cooking temperature at a moderate level to ensure the fritters cook evenly, avoiding the risk of being overly cooked on the outside and undercooked inside.
Step 4: Storing the Fritters
Once cooked, these delectable fritters can be stored in the refrigerator and freeze exceptionally well, making them a convenient and time-saving option for future meals.
Nutritional Information and Weight Watchers Points
Nutritional Information per Fritter:
- Calories: 154
- Fat: 6.5g
- Saturated Fat: 1.1g
- Carbohydrates: 2.9g
- Fiber: 0.1g
- Sugar: 0g
- Protein: 22.4g
Weight Watchers Points:
- Points: 1
- Personal Points: 1-3, depending on your zero-point foods
- Freestyle SP (Blue & Purple): 1 using WW recipe builder
- Smart Points (Green): 3 using WW recipe builder
- Points Plus: 4 using PP calculator
Tips for Perfect Fritters
Choose Fresh Ingredients
Fresh, high-quality ingredients will make a noticeable difference in the flavor and texture of your fritters. Opt for fresh basil, parsley, and quality cheese for the best results.
Uniform Chicken Pieces
Cutting the chicken into uniformly small pieces ensures even cooking and a consistent texture throughout each fritter.
Moderate Heat is Key
Cooking over medium to low heat helps achieve a golden-brown exterior without burning the fritters. It also ensures the inside is thoroughly cooked.
Avoid Overcrowding the Pan
Cooking only a few fritters at a time allows for better heat distribution, resulting in evenly cooked fritters.
Experiment with Seasonings
Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to suit your taste preferences. Adding a bit of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika can add a delightful kick.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?
Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a juicier and slightly more flavorful alternative.
Can these fritters be baked instead of fried?
Absolutely! To bake the fritters, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and place the fritters on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
How long can I store the fritters in the refrigerator?
These fritters can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze the fritters?
Yes, these fritters freeze exceptionally well. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze initially, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
How can I reheat the fritters?
To reheat, place the fritters in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until heated through. You can also reheat them in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes on each side.
What can I serve with these fritters?
These fritters pair well with a variety of dipping sauces such as marinara, ranch, or aioli. They also make a great addition to salads, wraps, or served alongside roasted vegetables.
Conclusion
Incorporate our Parmesan and Mozzarella Chicken Fritters into your culinary repertoire, and let the symphony of flavors elevate your dining experience. Whether enjoyed as a savory snack or a main course, these fritters are a testament to the fusion of simplicity and sophistication. Visit our website for more culinary inspirations and explore the world of delicious possibilities that await your kitchen.
Recipe Card
Parmesan and Mozzarella Chicken Fritters
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Cuisine: Main meals
Servings: 6
Ingredients:
- 16 oz boneless skinless chicken breast (weighed raw)
- 1 egg
- 3 tablespoons flour
- 1.5 tablespoons Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup reduced-fat shredded mozzarella cheese (e.g., Trader Joe’s)
- 1 garlic clove (minced)
- Fresh basil (chopped, a few tablespoons)
- 1 tablespoon chives (dried)
- 1 tablespoon parsley
- Pinch of salt & pepper
- ¼ teaspoon chili powder
- 2 teaspoons cooking oil (plus additional cooking spray)
Instructions:
- Cut the chicken into very small pieces and place in a bowl.
- Add the egg, flour, Parmesan, mozzarella, garlic, and seasonings. Mix well.
- Heat a large frying pan over medium to low heat. Add oil and cooking spray.
- Spoon about ¼ cup of the mixture per fritter into the pan, cooking three at a time.
- Cook for about 10 minutes each, turning a few times. Ensure the temperature is moderate.
- Store fritters in the fridge or freeze for future use.
Notes:
- Points: 1
- Personal Points: 1-3 depending on your zero-point foods
- Freestyle SP (Blue & Purple): 1 using WW recipe builder
- Smart Points (Green): 3 using WW recipe builder
- Points Plus: 4 using PP calculator
- Nutritional info per fritter: Calories 154, Fat 6.5g, Sat fat 1.1g, Carbs 2.9g, Fiber 0.1g, Sugar 0g, Protein 22.4g (using My Fitness Pal)
Enjoy your delicious and nutritious Parmesan and Mozzarella Chicken Fritters!