Jalapeño Cheddar Chicken Fritters
Jalapeño Cheddar Chicken Fritters are a flavorful, protein-packed treat that’s perfect for appetizers, snacks, or even a quick dinner.
These fritters combine the zesty heat of jalapeños, the creamy sharpness of cheddar cheese, and the savory goodness of ground chicken for a dish that’s crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.
Whether paired with your favorite dipping sauce or enjoyed on their own, these fritters are sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
Bold Flavors: The combination of spicy jalapeños, sharp cheddar cheese, and savory seasonings makes every bite packed with flavor.
Crispy & Tender Texture: These fritters are perfectly golden and crispy on the outside while staying juicy and tender inside.
Versatile Dish: They can be served as an appetizer, snack, or even a main course, making them perfect for any occasion.
Easy & Quick: With simple ingredients and minimal prep, this recipe is a breeze to make, even on busy days.
Customizable: Adjust the spice level or pair with your favorite dipping sauce for a dish that suits your personal taste.
Key Ingredients:
Ground Chicken: The base of the fritters, offering a lean protein that’s juicy and flavorful.
Jalapeños: Bring a kick of heat and a pop of freshness to the dish.
Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Adds creaminess and a rich, tangy flavor that complements the spice.
Green Onions: Provide a mild, fresh onion flavor for balance.
Garlic & Spices: A blend of minced garlic, garlic powder, paprika, and seasoned salt enhances the savory profile of the fritters.
Coconut Flour: Acts as a binder, keeping the fritters together while adding a subtle nutty flavor.
Jalapeño Cheddar Chicken Fritters
Ingredients:
1 pound ground chicken
1/4 cup finely chopped jalapeños
2 tablespoons finely chopped green onions
1 teaspoon minced garlic
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon seasoned salt
1 large egg
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 tablespoon coconut flour
Instructions:
In a large bowl, mix together the ground chicken, chopped jalapeños, green onions, garlic, and spices until everything is evenly combined.
Add the egg, shredded cheddar cheese, and coconut flour to the chicken mixture. Stir until well incorporated.
Using a small ice cream scoop or a 1/4 cup measuring cup, shape the mixture into fritters, pressing them down slightly. Aim for a thinner shape than you think, as the fritters will puff up while cooking.
Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot and shimmering, carefully add the fritters, making sure they aren’t overcrowded in the pan.
Cook the fritters for 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden brown and fully cooked through. You can check the internal temperature with an instant-read thermometer—it should reach 165°F.
Once done, remove the fritters from the skillet and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to soak up any excess oil.
Serve hot, accompanied by your choice of dipping sauce.
Enjoy these crispy, cheesy fritters!
Notes:
Adjust the Heat: For a milder version, remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapeños, or substitute them with milder peppers like poblano or bell peppers.
Cheese Options: While sharp cheddar works wonderfully, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like pepper jack for added spice or mozzarella for a milder flavor.
Shaping the Fritters: Press the mixture into thinner patties, as they will puff up slightly while cooking. This ensures even cooking and a crisp exterior.
Cooking Oil: Use an oil with a high smoke point, such as avocado, vegetable, or canola oil, to prevent burning.
Skillet Temperature: Make sure the skillet is hot before adding the fritters to achieve a golden, crispy crust without sticking.
Serving Suggestions: Pair with dipping sauces like ranch, chipotle mayo, or a tangy yogurt-based dip for an extra burst of flavor.
Make Ahead: Prepare the mixture ahead of time and refrigerate until ready to cook for a convenient meal or appetizer option.
Nutrition Information:
Calories: 130 kcal | Protein: 15 g | Fat: 8 g | Saturated Fat: 3.5 g | Carbohydrates: 2-3 g | Fiber: 0.5 g | Sugars: <1 g | Cholesterol: 60 mg | Sodium: 250 mg
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I bake or air-fry the fritters instead of pan-frying them?
Yes! To bake, preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C), place the fritters on a parchment-lined baking sheet, and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
For air-frying, cook at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and cooked through.
What can I use instead of coconut flour?
You can substitute almond flour, regular all-purpose flour, or breadcrumbs in equal amounts.
Keep in mind that different flours may slightly alter the texture.
How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store leftover fritters in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat them in a skillet over medium heat, in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes, or in an air fryer for a few minutes to restore their crispness.
Can I make these fritters spicier?
Absolutely! Leave the seeds and membranes in the jalapeños, or add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red chili flakes to the mixture for extra heat.
Can I freeze the fritters?
Yes! Cooked fritters can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring to a freezer-safe bag or container.
Reheat directly from frozen in an oven or air fryer at 375°F (190°C) until heated through.
How do I keep the fritters from falling apart while cooking?
Ensure the mixture is well-combined, and press the fritters firmly into shape before cooking.
If the mixture feels too wet, add a little more coconut flour (or your chosen binder) to help it hold together.
Can I use pre-cooked chicken instead of ground chicken?
Yes, you can use shredded, pre-cooked chicken, but you’ll need to pulse it in a food processor to achieve a consistency similar to ground chicken for easy shaping.
How can I prevent the fritters from sticking to the pan?
Use a non-stick skillet or ensure the pan is well-oiled and preheated before adding the fritters.
Avoid overcrowding the pan, which can lower the temperature and cause sticking.
What’s the best way to chop the jalapeños and green onions finely?
A sharp knife works well, but for finer chopping, use a food processor.
Be careful when handling jalapeños—wear gloves or wash your hands thoroughly after cutting to avoid irritation.
Can I double or halve the recipe?
Yes! You can easily adjust the recipe to make more or fewer fritters.
For larger batches, mix the ingredients in stages to ensure even distribution, and cook in batches to maintain consistent frying quality.