These Healthy Chicken Zucchini Fritters are a tasty spin on dinner! Made with ground chicken and fresh zucchini, they’re both juicy and crunchy. Perfect for a quick meal!
Honestly, they vanish so fast at my house that I barely get a chance to enjoy them! 😂 Pair them with a side salad for a fun and healthy dinner option you’ll love.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Chicken: This is the main protein in the fritters. If you’re looking for a leaner option, ground turkey works great too! You can also switch to a plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian version.
Zucchini: Fresh zucchinis add moisture. If they’re out of season or you need a change, shredded carrots or even finely chopped spinach are good substitutes.
Whole Wheat Flour: This helps bind the fritters. For gluten-free options, almond flour or oat flour is a fantastic alternative. Just keep in mind that the texture may slightly differ.
Parmesan Cheese: While it enhances flavor, you can skip it for a dairy-free option. Nutritional yeast can give a cheesy flavor if you want to keep that essence without dairy!
Fresh Parsley: Fresh herbs brighten the dish, but dried herbs can work in a pinch. Consider using basil or cilantro if you want to switch things up!
What’s the Best Way to Remove Excess Moisture from Zucchini?
Too much moisture can make your fritters soft. So, squeezing the grated zucchini is key! Here’s how to do it effectively:
- Grate the zucchini and place it in a towel or cheesecloth.
- Twist and squeeze to release as much liquid as possible. You’ll be surprised at how much comes out!
Doing this helps keep your fritters crisp on the outside, making them more enjoyable. Trust me, it’s worth the extra effort!
Healthy Chicken Zucchini Fritters
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Fritters:
- 1 lb (450g) ground chicken
- 2 medium zucchinis, grated
- 1/4 cup grated onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup whole wheat flour (or almond flour for gluten-free)
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (or 1 tsp dried)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano or Italian seasoning
- Olive oil or cooking spray for frying
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and about 10-15 minutes to cook. In total, you can enjoy these delicious fritters in under 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Zucchini:
Start by grating the zucchinis. Then, place the grated zucchini into a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and squeeze out as much liquid as possible. This step is super important to keep your fritters from becoming soggy!
2. Mixing the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, drained grated zucchini, grated onion, minced garlic, whole wheat flour, egg, optional Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, salt, pepper, and oregano. Mix everything together until well combined. It’s okay if it’s a bit sticky—that’s normal!
3. Heating the Skillet:
Put a large non-stick skillet on medium heat. Add a splash of olive oil or simply spray the skillet with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
4. Forming Patties:
Using a spoon or your hands, scoop out the mixture to form small patties, about 2-3 inches in diameter. Make sure to shape them nicely as this will help them cook evenly!
5. Cooking the Fritters:
Carefully place the patties in the hot skillet and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side. You want them to turn golden brown and be cooked through, so make sure their internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Draining Excess Oil:
Once cooked, transfer the fritters to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any extra oil. This keeps them nice and crispy!
7. Serving:
Serve the fritters warm with a side of Greek yogurt or tzatziki sauce and a fresh salad for a complete meal. Enjoy your healthy and delicious chicken zucchini fritters!
FAQ for Healthy Chicken Zucchini Fritters
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute and will work well in this recipe. It will still provide a lean protein option while giving you a similar texture and taste.
How Do I Store Leftover Fritters?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave for about 30 seconds, flipping halfway through for even warming!
Can I Freeze These Fritters?
Yes, you can freeze them! After cooking, let the fritters cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer them to a freezer bag for long-term storage. They can be reheated from frozen in a skillet or oven.
What Can I Substitute for Zucchini?
If you don’t have zucchini, shredded carrots or finely chopped bell peppers can be used as alternatives. Just like zucchini, they add moisture and flavor while keeping the fritters healthy!
