Chicken Zucchini Fritters Recipe

This Chicken Zucchini Fritters recipe is a healthy, delicious, and easy-to-make dish perfect for any meal. Made with fresh zucchini, ground turkey or chicken, and ricotta cheese, these fritters are packed with protein and vegetables. The recipe is simple, requiring just a few ingredients and can be cooked in a non-stick skillet in under 15 minutes. These fritters are a great way to use zucchini and make a versatile dish that can be served as a main or a snack. With added green onions, garlic, and seasonings, the fritters have a flavorful taste that’s sure to please everyone. Perfect for meal prep or a quick family dinner, these zucchini fritters are a go-to for healthy, tasty meals.

Ingredients:

• 2 medium zucchinis (about 1 1/4 lbs), grated (you can use a green zucchini and a yellow squash)
• 2 teaspoons salt, divided
• 1 lb ground turkey or chicken
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
• 1/4 cup green onions or chives, finely sliced
• 1 large egg
• 2 cloves garlic, pressed
• 8 oz ricotta cheese (or half of a 15 oz tub)
• Olive oil for sautéing

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Instructions:

Prepare the Zucchini:

1. Place the grated zucchini in a colander or bowl. Sprinkle with 1 teaspoon of salt and let it rest for about 10 minutes. Afterward, squeeze out as much moisture as possible from the zucchini, pressing it by the fistful to remove all the liquid. Discard the excess juice.

Make the Fritter Mixture: 2. Transfer the drained zucchini to a large bowl. Add the ground turkey or chicken, the remaining 1 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon pepper, finely sliced green onions or chives, egg, pressed garlic, and ricotta cheese. Mix everything well until the ingredients are fully combined.

Cook the Fritters: 3. Heat a large non-stick skillet over medium heat and add 3-4 tablespoons of extra light olive oil. 4. Take a heaping tablespoon of the mixture and form a round patty about 1/3-inch thick using your hands. 5. Cook the fritters uncovered for about 3 minutes on one side, then flip them over. Cover the skillet and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes or until the fritters are fully cooked through. 6. Add more oil to the pan as needed for subsequent batches. Once done, remove the fritters from the skillet and set them aside.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Healthy & Flavorful: Packed with vegetables and lean protein, these fritters are a nutritious and delicious meal option.
• Versatile: Serve them for breakfast, lunch, or dinner! They also make a great appetizer or snack.
• Simple Ingredients: The recipe uses basic pantry staples, making it quick and easy to prepare.

Tips:

• Squeeze out excess moisture: Removing the liquid from the zucchini ensures that the fritters don’t become soggy.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: To get a nice golden crust, cook the fritters in batches and give them space in the pan.
• Adjust seasoning: You can add more spices, like paprika or oregano, to enhance the flavor if desired.

Variations and Substitutions:

• Use other cheeses: If you don’t have ricotta, substitute it with cottage cheese, cream cheese, or even shredded mozzarella.
• Ground meat options: Feel free to swap ground turkey or chicken for ground beef or pork, depending on your preference.
• Zucchini substitutes: You can also use shredded carrots or even sweet potato in place of the zucchini for a different twist.

FAQs:

Can I freeze these fritters? Yes, you can freeze cooked fritters! Let them cool, then store them in an airtight container or freezer bag. Reheat in the oven or microwave when ready to serve.

Can I make the fritters ahead of time? Yes, these fritters can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Can I bake these instead of frying? Yes, you can bake the fritters on a parchment-lined baking sheet at 375°F for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Serving:

• Serve with a side of dipping sauce like tzatziki, garlic aioli, or marinara for extra flavor.
• Pair with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
• They are perfect for meal prep and work great in lunchboxes!