If you are looking for a dish that is irresistibly flavorful, easy to prepare, and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser, the Cheesy Chicken Fritters with Garlic Aioli Recipe is exactly what you need. Juicy chicken bites are combined with melty mozzarella and fresh dill, fried to golden perfection, then paired with a luscious garlic aioli that adds the perfect zing. Every bite delivers a crispy exterior with a tender, cheesy inside that feels like a warm hug on your plate. Whether you’re making a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive appetizer for friends, this recipe shines with simple ingredients and bold flavors that linger in the best way.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients might be straightforward, but each plays a crucial role in creating the magic that is Cheesy Chicken Fritters with Garlic Aioli Recipe. From the tender chicken that forms the hearty base, to the dill that adds a fresh herbal note, everything combines to make a dish that’s bursting with flavor and texture.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (1 1/2 pounds): Provides lean protein and the main substance of the fritters.
- Large eggs (2): Acts as a binder to hold the mixture together while frying.
- Mayonnaise (1/3 cup plus extra for aioli): Adds moisture, richness, and tanginess both in the fritter mix and the aioli.
- All-purpose flour (1/3 cup): Or gluten-free alternatives like cornstarch for a crispier texture and structure.
- Mozzarella cheese, shredded (4 ounces): Melts within the fritters for that gooey, cheesy goodness.
- Fresh dill, chopped (1 1/2 tablespoons): Brings a refreshing herbal brightness that complements the richness.
- Salt and black pepper: Balances and enhances all the other flavors perfectly.
- Extra light olive oil (2 tablespoons): For frying — it’s neutral and handles heat without overpowering flavors.
- Garlic clove (1, pressed): The star of the aioli, adding robust aromatic depth.
- Lemon juice (1/2 tablespoon): Adds a subtle citrus kick in the aioli for brightness.
How to Make Cheesy Chicken Fritters with Garlic Aioli Recipe
Step 1: Mix and Chill the Fritter Batter
Start by combining the diced chicken, eggs, mayonnaise, flour, mozzarella cheese, chopped dill, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Stir everything together until fully incorporated so each bite will be extra flavorful and textured. Then cover the bowl and refrigerate the mixture for at least two hours or overnight. This chilling step might require a bit of patience, but it helps the flavors meld beautifully and the batter firm up enough to hold together when frying.
Step 2: Fry the Fritters Until Golden Perfection
Once your chicken mixture is chilled and ready, heat the oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat. Using heaping tablespoons, scoop the batter into the hot oil, gently flattening each dollop. Fry them for about 3 to 4 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown and cooked through. The key here is not to crowd your pan, so the fritters get beautifully crisp instead of steaming. This step turns the batter into wonderfully crispy, cheesy little patties that are downright addictive.
Step 3: Whip Up the Garlic Aioli
While the fritters fry, mix together the mayonnaise, pressed garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Stir until the aioli is smooth and creamy—this sauce will be the perfect tangy companion to the rich, cheesy fritters. The garlic and lemon give this aioli a fresh zing that cuts through the richness wonderfully.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
Plate the hot fritters and drizzle or dollop the garlic aioli alongside. Serve immediately for the best crunch and flavor. These fritters are delicious on their own or paired with the bright garlic aioli that elevates every bite into the realm of pure comfort and joy.
How to Serve Cheesy Chicken Fritters with Garlic Aioli Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle freshly chopped dill or parsley over the warm fritters to echo the herbal freshness inside. A little zest of lemon on top adds a pop of color and a hit of acidity that wakes up your taste buds. These simple garnishes not only make it look stunning but also enhance the flavor profile beautifully.
Side Dishes
These fritters pair wonderfully with crisp green salads for a refreshing balance or roasted vegetables for a heartier meal. Lightly dressed arugula or a tangy cabbage slaw both complement the cheesy, garlicky flavors perfectly. For something more indulgent, serve with creamy mashed potatoes or buttery corn on the cob.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun appetizer twist, stack mini fritters with dollops of aioli between each layer, securing them with decorative toothpicks. Alternatively, turn them into sliders with soft buns, lettuce, and tomato for a party-friendly finger food. The crispy fritters and creamy aioli make an exciting combo that is bound to impress no matter how you serve them.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled completely, store leftover fritters in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They keep very well and make a fantastic quick snack or meal addition later on, maintaining much of their crispiness when reheated properly.
Freezing
To freeze, lay the cooked fritters on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid, about 1 hour. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They will stay good for up to 2 months and can be reheated straight from frozen, which makes for a convenient and delicious make-ahead option.
Reheating
Reheat your fritters in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-12 minutes or until warmed through to help keep the exterior nice and crispy. Avoid microwaving if you want to preserve the texture, as it tends to make them soggy.
FAQs
Can I use different cheese instead of mozzarella?
Absolutely! While mozzarella melts beautifully and provides a mild creaminess, you can experiment with cheddar for a sharper flavor or pepper jack for a little heat. Just keep the texture in mind so the cheese melts well without overpowering the dish.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, by swapping all-purpose flour with cornstarch or potato starch, you can make the Cheesy Chicken Fritters with Garlic Aioli Recipe gluten-free without sacrificing texture or taste.
Can I prepare the fritter mixture ahead of time?
Definitely! In fact, refrigerating the mixture for at least two hours up to overnight actually improves the flavor and makes the mixture firmer for easier frying.
What can I substitute for mayonnaise in the aioli?
If you want to skip mayonnaise, you can make a simple garlic yogurt sauce instead by mixing Greek yogurt with pressed garlic, lemon juice, and seasoning. It’s lighter but just as delicious.
Are these fritters kid-friendly?
Yes! The cheesy, mild flavors and tender texture make these fritters a hit with kids. The garlic aioli can be served on the side for dipping, so even picky eaters can enjoy them at their own pace.
Final Thoughts
I promise once you try the Cheesy Chicken Fritters with Garlic Aioli Recipe, it will quickly become one of your go-to dishes for every occasion. It’s such a comforting, flavorful combo that feels both homey and a little special at the same time. Simple to make yet impressive to eat, these fritters are perfect for sharing or savoring on your own. So go ahead, gather those ingredients, and treat yourself to this delightful culinary experience—you absolutely will not regret it!
Print
Cheesy Chicken Fritters with Garlic Aioli Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Cheesy Chicken Fritters are a delicious, savory snack or appetizer featuring tender, diced chicken mixed with mozzarella cheese and fresh dill. Crisply sautéed to a golden brown and served with a zesty garlic aioli, they make a perfect protein-packed treat that’s easy to prepare and sure to impress.
Ingredients
Chicken Fritter Mixture
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced into 1/3-inch pieces
- 2 large eggs
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour (or cornstarch or potato starch for gluten-free)
- 4 ounces mozzarella cheese, shredded (about 1 1/3 cups)
- 1 1/2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons extra light olive oil (or any high-heat cooking oil)
Garlic Aioli
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise
- 1 garlic clove, pressed
- 1/2 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken mixture: In a large bowl, combine the diced chicken, eggs, mayonnaise, flour, shredded mozzarella cheese, chopped dill, salt, and black pepper. Stir thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate the mixture for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow flavors to meld and mixture to firm up.
- Cook the fritters: Heat the extra light olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat. Using heaping tablespoons, scoop the chicken mixture and add to the skillet, flattening each fritter slightly with a spatula. Sauté the fritters for 3 to 4 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown on the outside and fully cooked through.
- Make the garlic aioli: In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, pressed garlic, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Stir the ingredients together until the aioli is smooth and well blended.
- Serve: Serve the hot chicken fritters immediately with the garlic aioli on the side for dipping, enhancing their cheesy and savory flavors.
Notes
- For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with cornstarch or potato starch.
- Refrigerating the mixture helps it bind better and makes the fritters easier to shape and cook evenly.
- Ensure the oil is properly heated before adding fritters to prevent sticking and achieve a crispy texture.
- These fritters can be kept warm in an oven set to a low temperature (around 200°F) while finishing the batch.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in a skillet or air fryer for best texture.
