Description
Savory, crispy patties packed with protein and hidden veggies. Perfect for quick meals, healthy snacking, or meal prep. Ready in under 30 minutes using simple ingredients.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups shredded zucchini (about 1 large zucchini)
- 1 cup cooked chicken, finely shredded or chopped
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup finely diced red onion
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (or almond flour for gluten-free)
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, plus more for salting zucchini
- 2–3 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil, for frying
Instructions
- Prepare the Zucchini: Grate the zucchini and place it in a colander. Toss with about a teaspoon of salt and let it sit for 10 minutes. Then, using your hands or a clean kitchen towel, squeeze out as much liquid as possible.
- Combine the Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the drained zucchini, shredded chicken, Parmesan cheese, red onion, flour, egg, garlic, parsley, smoked paprika, pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Mix gently until everything is just combined.
- Form the Patties: Using a 1/4 cup measuring cup, scoop the mixture and form it into small, flat patties, about 1/2-inch thick. Place them on a plate or baking sheet.
- Cook to Golden Perfection: Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully add the patties in a single layer. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, until deeply golden brown and crisp.
- Drain and Serve: Transfer the cooked fritters to a plate lined with a paper towel to absorb any excess oil. Serve immediately while hot and crispy.
Notes
Pro Tip: Let the formed patties rest in the fridge for 10-15 minutes before frying for better shape. For a lighter version, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway. Store in refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Pan-Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 fritters
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 85mg