If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing recipe that sneaks in veggies, packs a punch of flavor, and is guaranteed to disappear as quickly as you serve them, look no further than Broccoli Chicken Fritters. These golden, cheesy patties are the ultimate answer to weeknight meals, lunchboxes, or party platters. Not only are they quick and easy to make, but this dish transforms simple ingredients into something irresistibly crispy on the outside and tender on the inside – truly the most delicious way to enjoy broccoli and chicken, all tied together with gooey cheese!

Broccoli Chicken Fritters Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in Broccoli Chicken Fritters is chosen for a reason, coming together to create a dish that’s comforting, hearty, and full of color. From the protein-rich chicken to the vibrant green broccoli and the blend of cheeses, you’ll love how each element shines. Here’s what you’ll need:

Cooked chicken (2 cups, finely shredded): A perfect way to use up leftovers or pick up a rotisserie chicken for convenience.
Broccoli florets (2 cups, steamed and finely chopped): Adds bright color, a nutritional boost, and stays delightfully tender.
Large eggs (2): Helps bind everything together and gives the fritters structure.
Shredded cheddar cheese (1/2 cup): Melts into gooey pockets that bring savory flavor and a golden crust.
Grated Parmesan cheese (1/4 cup): Infuses the fritters with a salty, nutty depth.
Breadcrumbs (1/2 cup, or almond flour for low-carb): Provides the perfect texture and holds the patties together; choose almond flour for a gluten-free or low-carb option.
Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Adds a subtle kick and aromatic undertone – don’t skip this!
Green onions (2, finely chopped): Brightens every bite with a gentle oniony zing.
Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors within the fritters.
Black pepper (1/2 teaspoon): Offers gentle warmth and rounds out the seasoning.
Paprika (1/2 teaspoon): Lends color and a mild smokiness that plays beautifully with the cheese.
Olive oil (2 tablespoons, for frying): Gives the fritters that irresistible golden crust while keeping them moist inside.

How to Make Broccoli Chicken Fritters

Step 1: Mix the Fritter Base

In a large mixing bowl, toss in your shredded chicken, finely chopped broccoli, eggs, cheddar, Parmesan, breadcrumbs (or almond flour), garlic, green onions, salt, pepper, and paprika. Mix everything together with a large spoon or your hands (it’s a little messy, but so satisfying!), ensuring the ingredients are evenly combined and the mixture holds together. The blend should be moist, but not so wet that it can’t form a loose patty – if it feels too crumbly, add another tablespoon of breadcrumbs or a splash more egg.

Step 2: Shape the Fritters

Scoop out about 2 to 3 tablespoons of the mixture at a time, rolling and flattening gently between your palms to form small patties. You should get about 12 fritters in total. Lay them out on a parchment-lined tray or plate while you heat your skillet – this helps them keep their shape for frying.

Step 3: Pan-Fry to Perfection

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. When the oil shimmers, add the fritters in batches (avoid crowding the pan!) and cook for 3 to 4 minutes on the first side, until beautifully golden. Gently flip and continue cooking another 3 to 4 minutes, until deep golden brown and crispy on both sides. Transfer cooked fritters to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Step 4: Serve Them Hot!

Enjoy Broccoli Chicken Fritters straight from the skillet while they’re warm, cheesy, and at their crispiest best. They’re excellent dunked in your favorite sauce, nestled in a wrap, or piled atop a salad for a hearty meal.

How to Serve Broccoli Chicken Fritters

Garnishes

Sprinkle freshly chopped green onions, extra Parmesan, or a pinch of fresh parsley on top of your Broccoli Chicken Fritters just before serving to add a pop of color and fresh flavor. A swirl of Greek yogurt or a dollop of cooling ranch works wonders as well, balancing the richness with a creamy finish.

Side Dishes

These fritters are incredibly versatile! Serve them alongside a bright, citrusy salad, roasted sweet potatoes, or classic coleslaw for a rounded meal. They also pair perfectly with a bowl of tomato soup or even tucked inside a pita with crunchy lettuce and tomato for a fun twist on lunch.

Creative Ways to Present

Why not stack a few fritters and secure them with a decorative toothpick for an easy party appetizer? You can also cut them into bite-sized pieces, arrange on a platter with different dips (think: sriracha mayo, honey mustard, or herbed yogurt), or even pack them as a high-protein snack for picnics and lunchboxes. The possibilities with Broccoli Chicken Fritters are truly endless!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, store leftover fritters in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Line the container with paper towels to help absorb any extra moisture so your Broccoli Chicken Fritters stay nice and crisp for round two.

Freezing

These fritters are freezer-friendly! Layer cooled fritters between pieces of parchment paper, place in a freezer-safe container or bag, and freeze for up to 2 months. When you want to enjoy them, simply thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating

To revive the crispiness, reheat Broccoli Chicken Fritters in a skillet over medium heat with a little splash of olive oil, about 2 minutes per side. For a hands-off method, bake them in a hot oven (about 375°F) for 8-10 minutes. The microwave works in a pinch, but you’ll lose some crunch!

FAQs

Can I bake Broccoli Chicken Fritters instead of frying?

Absolutely! Preheat your oven to 400°F, place fritters on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spray or brush lightly with oil, and bake for 18 to 20 minutes, flipping halfway. They’ll turn out deliciously golden with a little less mess.

Are these fritters gluten-free?

They easily can be! Simply swap out the regular breadcrumbs for almond flour or your favorite gluten-free breadcrumbs to make Broccoli Chicken Fritters perfect for gluten-free diets.

Can I use raw chicken or does it need to be cooked first?

You’ll want to start with already cooked chicken for this recipe. It’s a great use for leftover chicken, rotisserie chicken, or you can quickly poach some chicken breasts and shred them.

What dipping sauces go best with these fritters?

Classic ranch dressing, sour cream, and herbed Greek yogurt are always winners. For something zestier, try spicy sriracha mayo, honey mustard, or even a tangy tzatziki sauce for a Mediterranean twist.

Can I add extra veggies or spice?

Definitely! Finely chopped red bell peppers, shredded carrots, or even corn can be mixed in for extra color and flavor. Like heat? A pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne will liven them up.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re batch-cooking for busy nights or whipping up a simple crowd-pleaser, Broccoli Chicken Fritters bring vibrant veggies, tender chicken, and zingy flavor together in every bite. I hope you fall in love with them just as much as my family has. Give them a try soon – I have a feeling they’ll become a new favorite at your table!

Broccoli Chicken Fritters Recipe

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4.8 from 15 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 12 fritters 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

These Broccoli Chicken Fritters are a delicious and nutritious way to enjoy a blend of tender chicken and fresh broccoli in a crispy, flavorful patty. Perfect for a quick meal or appetizer.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Fritters:

2 cups cooked chicken, finely shredded
2 cups broccoli florets, steamed and finely chopped
2 large eggs
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (or almond flour for low-carb)
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 green onions, finely chopped
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon paprika
2 tablespoons olive oil (for frying)

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Instructions

In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, chopped broccoli, eggs, cheddar, Parmesan, breadcrumbs, garlic, green onions, salt, pepper, and paprika.
Mix until the mixture holds together.
Form into small patties or fritters, about 2 to 3 tablespoons each.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Cook fritters in batches, 3 to 4 minutes per side, until golden brown and heated through.
Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Serve warm with ranch, sour cream, or a yogurt dipping sauce.

Notes

These fritters can also be baked at 400°F for 18 to 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Great for meal prep—store in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Appetizer, Main Course
Method: Pan-Frying, Stovetop
Cuisine: American