Easy Cheesy Chicken Fritters Air Fryer

 Cheesy Chicken Fritters are a delightful and crispy snack or meal option that combines juicy chicken with gooey cheese, all made in the convenience of an air fryer. Perfectly golden on the outside and tender on the inside, these fritters are a family-friendly dish that can be enjoyed as an appetizer, main course, or even a party treat.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound (450g) ground chicken
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup finely chopped parsley
• 1 egg
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Cooking spray or a small amount of oil

Method:

1. Preheat the Air Fryer: Set the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and let it preheat for about 5 minutes.

2. Prepare the Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, shredded cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, egg, onion, garlic, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything until well combined, but be careful not to overmix.

3. Shape the Fritters: Using your hands or a spoon, form small patties or fritters from the mixture. Aim for about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter.

4. Cook the Fritters: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or brush it with a small amount of oil. Arrange the fritters in a single layer in the basket, making sure they don’t touch or overlap. You may need to cook them in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.

5. Air Fry: Cook the fritters at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time. They should be golden brown and have an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C).

6. Serve: Remove the fritters from the air fryer and let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them with your favorite dipping sauce or on their own.

Variations & Tips:

• Cheese Options: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, such as mozzarella, gouda, or pepper jack, for varied flavors.
• Add Vegetables: Incorporate finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms into the fritter mixture for added nutrition and taste.
• Spices: Adjust the seasoning to your preference by adding spices like cumin, chili powder, or dried herbs.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the fritters ahead of time and freeze them. Just cook from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
• Serving Suggestions: These fritters pair wonderfully with a side salad, dipping sauces like ranch or BBQ, or even in a sandwich or wrap.

Conclusion: Cheesy Chicken Fritters made in the air fryer are a tasty and healthier alternative to traditional fried snacks. With a crispy exterior and a cheesy, flavorful interior, these fritters are a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make and customize. Whether you’re looking for a quick meal or a satisfying appetizer, these air-fried delights are sure to become a new favorite in your recipe repertoire. Enjoy the simplicity and taste of homemade fritters with the convenience of your air fryer!