Are you tired of the same old chicken dishes? Looking for a new and exciting way to incorporate vegetables into your meals? Look no further than broccoli chicken fritters! These tender, juicy, and flavorful fritters are a perfect combination of protein and veggies, making them a healthy and delicious option for any meal.
In this article, we will guide you through the process of making these mouthwatering fritters, providing you with all the necessary information and tips to create a successful dish. So, let’s dive in and explore the world of broccoli chicken fritters!
Why Broccoli Chicken Fritters?
Broccoli chicken fritters are a fantastic way to enjoy the goodness of chicken and the nutritional benefits of broccoli in one bite. The combination of juicy chicken pieces and tender broccoli inside crispy golden fritters creates a delightful sensory experience.
Unlike traditional chicken patties, these fritters use chopped chicken, which gives them a meatier texture. The addition of garlic and parmesan adds a burst of flavor, making these fritters truly irresistible.
Plus, they are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed as a meal, snack, or even as mini burgers. With these fritters, you can enjoy a tasty and healthy dish that will satisfy your cravings and keep you coming back for more.
Ingredients for Broccoli Chicken Fritters
To create these delicious fritters, you will need the following ingredients:
- Chicken breasts or thigh 500g / 1lb
- Broccoli 1 large head
- Flour 1/2 cup (75g)
- Parmesan cheese 1/2 cup (50g)
- Eggs 2
- Garlic cloves 2
- Salt 3/4 tsp
- Pepper To taste
- Olive oil 3-4 tbsp
How to Make Broccoli Chicken Fritters
Now that we have gathered all the ingredients, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of making these delicious fritters:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken and Broccoli
Start by preparing the chicken and broccoli. Cut the chicken breast or thigh into small chunks and place them in a food processor. Pulse for a minute until you have finely chopped pieces. Be careful not to over-process the meat into a paste. Alternatively, you can use ground chicken if desired.
Next, prepare the broccoli by separating the florets from the stem. Hold the broccoli with the stem facing up and make downward cuts to separate the florets. Bring a pot of water to boil and steam the broccoli for 2-3 minutes until tender. Once cooked, allow the broccoli to cool and chop it into small pieces.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
In a bowl, combine the chopped chicken, chopped broccoli, flour, grated or shredded Parmesan cheese, eggs, minced garlic cloves, salt, and pepper. Mix all the ingredients together until well combined. The mixture should hold together, forming a batter that will bind the fritters.
Step 3: Shape and Cook the Fritters
Heat olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Using an ice cream scoop or your hands, scoop 1/4 cup of the mixture and shape it into a mini patty, about 1/2-inch thick. Place the shaped fritters in the skillet and cook for 2.5 minutes on each side or until they turn deep golden brown. Flip the fritters gently to avoid breaking them. Once cooked, transfer the fritters to a rack to drain excess oil and keep them warm in the oven.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve the chicken broccoli fritters hot off the stove. Their juicy interior and crispy exterior make them delicious on their own. However, if you prefer dipping sauces, you can pair them with a pink sauce made from sour cream or Greek yogurt mixed with ketchup. Alternatively, you can try them with avocado dipping sauce, honey mustard, or ranch sauce for a more gourmet experience. These fritters can be enjoyed as a meal, a snack, or even as mini burgers by stuffing them in rolls with lettuce, tomato, and your favorite condiments.
Tips and Variations
Here are some additional tips and variations to enhance your broccoli fritters:
- If you’re following a keto diet, you can make these fritters keto-friendly by substituting almond flour for breadcrumbs.
- Feel free to experiment with different seasonings and spices to suit your taste preferences. You can add herbs like parsley, basil, or chives to enhance the flavor profile.
- For a vegetarian version, you can replace the chicken with cooked quinoa or mashed chickpeas for added protein and texture.
- These fritters can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Simply reheat them in the microwave or oven before serving.
- If you have leftovers, you can freeze the fritters for up to 3 months. Place parchment paper between each patty to prevent them from sticking together.
Broccoli chicken fritters are a delicious and healthy way to enjoy the flavors of chicken and broccoli in one bite. With the right combination of ingredients and a few simple steps, you can create these flavorful fritters that are perfect for any meal or snack. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy lunch, a crowd-pleasing appetizer, or a new twist on burgers, these fritters are sure to satisfy your cravings. So, gather your ingredients, follow the recipe, and enjoy the delightful taste and nutritional benefits of broccoli chicken fritters!
