These Chicken and Broccoli Fritters are a tasty and nutritious way to enjoy lean protein and vegetables. Perfect as an appetizer, snack, or main dish, these fritters are easy to make and can be customized with different herbs and spices.
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 lb. chicken breasts or ground chicken
- 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
- 1 cup finely chopped broccoli
- 2 eggs
- 2 tbsp chopped dill
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp pepper
- 2 tbsp oil, for frying
Instructions:
- Prepare the Chicken: Cut the chicken into chunks and place them in a food processor. Pulse for about 1 minute for finely chopped pieces or less for coarsely ground meat (be careful not to over-process the meat into a paste). The meat should hold together when pinched. Alternatively, you can use ground chicken.
- Prepare the Broccoli: Hold the broccoli with the stem facing up and, using a sharp knife, carefully separate the florets, making downward cuts from the stem. Bring a pot of water to boil over medium-high heat. Once the water starts to bubble, place the broccoli florets on a steam basket and add it on top of the boiling water. Cover with a lid and let the broccoli steam for 2-3 minutes. Once the broccoli is done, remove from heat and allow it to cool. Chop it into small pieces.
- Mix Ingredients: Place the ground chicken, chopped broccoli, Panko breadcrumbs, eggs, dill, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper into a bowl. Using clean hands, mix until all the ingredients are evenly combined.
- Form the Patties: Rub your hands with a bit of oil and pinch off a piece of the meat mixture. Shape it into a mini patty, about 1/2-inch thick.
- Cook the Fritters: Heat oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Cook the patties on each side until nicely golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
- Serve: Serve the fritters with your favorite dip and enjoy!
Notes:
- Serving Size: Each serving is 3 fritters, making about 14-15 fritters total.
- Substitutes:
- Chicken: Use ground chicken or ground turkey.
- Breadcrumbs: For a keto-friendly option, substitute with 1/2 cup of almond flour and 1/2 cup of Parmesan cheese.
- Broccoli: Try using cauliflower instead of broccoli.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a side of fresh salad and a dipping sauce like aioli, tzatziki, or spicy mayo.
- Pair with a grain like quinoa or rice for a complete meal.
- Enjoy as a sandwich filling with fresh lettuce and tomatoes.
Cooking Tips:
- Make sure the broccoli is well-chopped to blend seamlessly into the patties.
- Don’t over-process the chicken in the food processor to avoid a paste-like consistency.
- Ensure the oil is hot before frying to achieve a crispy exterior.
Nutritional Benefits:
- High in protein from the chicken and eggs.
- Packed with vitamins and fiber from the broccoli.
- Low in carbohydrates, especially if using almond flour and Parmesan cheese as substitutes.
Dietary Information:
- This recipe is gluten-free if using gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour.
- Low in carbs and suitable for a low-carb or keto diet with the right substitutes.
Storage:
- Store any leftover fritters in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in a skillet or oven until warm.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- These fritters are a delicious way to enjoy lean protein and vegetables.
- Versatile and can be customized with different herbs and spices.
- Easy to prepare and perfect for meal prep.
Conclusion: Enjoy these flavorful Chicken and Broccoli Fritters as a healthy and delicious addition to your meal rotation. They’re easy to make, packed with nutrients, and versatile enough for any occasion. Happy cooking!
