If you’re looking to shake up your dinner routine, let me introduce you to the crispy, juicy wonder that is Dill Pickle Chicken Fritters. Juicy ground chicken gets a punch of flavor from tangy pickles and fresh dill, all brought together with melty cheddar and a hint of garlic. Every bite delivers bold crunch and briny zip, and the best part? They’re as easy to make on a busy weeknight as they are to serve at a game-day gathering. You’re about to fall absolutely in love with this dill pickle chicken fritters recipe — I promise!
Ingredients You’ll Need
You only need a handful of everyday ingredients to whip up Dill Pickle Chicken Fritters, but each one brings something special to the party. From the sharp cheddar to the bright pickle juice, these flavors and textures combine for a fritter that’s anything but ordinary.
- Ground chicken: Choose lean ground chicken for juicy, protein-packed fritters that still feel light.
- Dill pickles: Finely chopping pickles ensures you get a zingy pop of flavor in every bite.
- Pickle juice: Adds tangy moisture and really makes the dill pickle flavor shine throughout the chicken.
- Large egg: Acts as a binder—don’t skip it or your fritters won’t hold together!
- Almond flour (or breadcrumbs): Almond flour keeps it keto-friendly and gives a subtle nuttiness, but you can use regular breadcrumbs if you prefer a classic touch.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into the mix for gooey richness and a gorgeous golden crust.
- Fresh dill: Brings an herby vibrancy that pairs perfectly with the pickles.
- Garlic powder: Adds a savory depth—just enough to round out the flavor.
- Onion powder: Another layer of aromatics to keep things interesting.
- Salt and pepper: Season to your liking and taste after you mix, as the pickles are already salty.
- Olive oil or avocado oil: Ideal for frying, giving your fritters that coveted crispy finish without overpowering the flavor.
How to Make Dill Pickle Chicken Fritters
Step 1: Mix Up the Magic
Grab a big bowl, toss in the ground chicken, chopped dill pickles, pickle juice, egg, almond flour, cheddar, fresh dill, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Use a spoon or your hands to gently but thoroughly mix everything together. The trick is to combine until just blended—overmixing can make the fritters tough, so keep it light!
Step 2: Shape the Fritters
With your chicken mixture ready, use either damp hands or a small scoop to form uniform patties or fritters, about 2–3 inches wide. If you want fritters that hold their shape best, try chilling the mixture for 15 to 20 minutes first. This quick chill makes forming and cooking them a breeze.
Step 3: Sizzle and Crisp
Heat the olive oil or avocado oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering. Add the chicken fritters carefully, spacing them out so they don’t touch. Cook for about 4–5 minutes on the first side, then flip gently and cook another 4–5 minutes, until both sides are deeply golden and the fritters are cooked through to 165°F inside.
Step 4: Drain and Serve
Transfer the cooked fritters to a plate lined with paper towels to catch any extra oil. Let them rest for just a minute, then pile them onto your favorite serving platter. Now comes the hardest part: not eating them all before you make it to the table!
How to Serve Dill Pickle Chicken Fritters
Garnishes
Bring even more freshness to your Dill Pickle Chicken Fritters by scattering slices of extra pickles, a sprinkle of chopped fresh dill, or a handful of finely sliced green onions over the top. For ultimate appeal (and a nod to that deli-diner vibe), serve lemon wedges alongside—just a quick squeeze over the fritters brightens up every bite.
Side Dishes
Fritters this flavorful can stand on their own, but pairing them with crispy oven fries, a chopped salad, or tangy coleslaw is always a win. Craving something lighter? Pile them atop greens with sliced cucumbers, tomatoes, and a drizzle of creamy ranch or dill dressing for a satisfying meal in a bowl.
Creative Ways to Present
Impress your guests by stacking the fritters tall and drizzling with a zigzag of your favorite dipping sauce. Or, tuck them into slider buns with lettuce and a slather of dill mayo for fun, pickle-powered sandwiches. For a gluten-free appetizer spread, serve smaller fritter “bites” with toothpicks and an array of sauces for dunking. The sky’s the limit!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store any leftover Dill Pickle Chicken Fritters in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. They hold up beautifully and the flavors deepen as they sit—even better for snacking straight from the fridge!
Freezing
To freeze, lay cooled fritters in a single layer on a parchment-lined tray and freeze until solid. Then, transfer to freezer-safe bags or containers. They’ll keep for up to 2 months, ready for a quick meal or snack whenever you crave something craveably savory.
Reheating
For best results, reheat Dill Pickle Chicken Fritters in an oven or air fryer at 350°F for 5–10 minutes, until heated through and crisped on the outside again. The microwave works in a pinch, but you’ll lose some of that fabulous crunch.
FAQs
Can I use turkey instead of chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey works just as well in this recipe—just make sure to use ground turkey with a little fat for the juiciest, most flavorful fritters.
Are these Dill Pickle Chicken Fritters gluten-free?
Yes, if you stick with almond flour and double-check your pickles for sneaky gluten-containing additives, you’ve got a totally gluten-free and keto-friendly meal.
What dipping sauces go best with these fritters?
Ranch dressing, honey mustard, or a homemade creamy dill sauce are all fantastic. For an extra pickle punch, try blending Greek yogurt, more fresh dill, a splash of pickle juice, and a dash of garlic powder.
Can I make these in advance for parties?
Definitely! You can prep and fry the fritters a day ahead, chill them, then reheat in the oven or air fryer just before serving. They’re great warm or at room temperature for easy entertaining.
How can I add more heat to the fritters?
Mix in a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes, diced jalapeños, or your favorite hot sauce right into the mixture for a little extra kick that balances beautifully with the tangy dill and pickles.
Final Thoughts
If you’re ready for your new favorite weeknight dinner or party snack, give these Dill Pickle Chicken Fritters a try. They’re bold, playful, and sure to win over anyone who loves the irresistible flavors of chicken and pickles together. Pull out your skillet and join me in making this craveably fun recipe—you won’t regret it!
Print
Dill Pickle Chicken Fritters Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
These Dill Pickle Chicken Fritters are a delicious and unique way to enjoy ground chicken. Packed with the tangy flavor of dill pickles and cheese, these fritters are crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. Perfect for a quick and easy meal or appetizer.
Ingredients
For the Fritters:
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1/2 cup finely chopped dill pickles
- 1/4 cup pickle juice
- 1 large egg
- 1/3 cup almond flour or breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil for frying
Instructions
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, chopped dill pickles, pickle juice, egg, almond flour, cheddar cheese, dill, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
- Form Patties: Heat oil in a skillet. Form the mixture into small fritters and cook for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.
- Drain and Serve: Remove fritters to a paper towel–lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve warm with dipping sauce.
Notes
- For a crispier texture, chill the mixture before forming fritters.
- Fritters can be made ahead and reheated in an air fryer or oven.
- Make it keto-friendly by using almond flour and add crushed red pepper for heat.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2–3 fritters
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
