Easy & Healthy Fried Carrot Chicken Oat Balls Recipe

Craving Something Crispy, Savory, and Surprisingly Healthy?

Imagine biting into a golden, crunchy ball that’s bursting with flavor! These Easy & Healthy Fried Carrot Chicken Oat Balls are not only incredibly delicious but also surprisingly easy to make. Perfect as an appetizer, a snack, or even part of a fun meal, they’re sure to become a new family favorite.

Why You’ll Love Easy & Healthy Fried Carrot Chicken Oat Balls?

• The perfect balance of sweet carrots, savory chicken, and nutty oats for a flavor explosion.
• They have a satisfying crispy exterior with a tender, moist interior.
• Quick and easy to prepare, making them ideal for weeknight meals or last-minute gatherings.
• Great for using up leftover cooked chicken and adding a hidden serving of veggies.
• Customizable – easily adapt to your taste preferences with different seasonings and add-ins.

What Makes Easy & Healthy Fried Carrot Chicken Oat Balls Unique?

What sets these little gems apart is the clever combination of ground chicken, grated carrots, and rolled oats. The oats not only add a lovely texture but also act as a binder, creating a beautifully moist and tender center. Frying them to a perfect golden crisp creates a delightful contrast of textures, making each bite an experience.

Ingredient List

• 1 cup cooked ground chicken, finely shredded or pulsed in a food processor
• 1 cup rolled oats (not instant)
• 1 cup grated carrots, packed
• 1/2 cup finely chopped yellow onion
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• Vegetable oil for frying (about 2 cups)

Step-by-Step Instructions for Easy & Healthy Fried Carrot Chicken Oat Balls

1. In a large bowl, combine the shredded ground chicken, rolled oats, grated carrots, chopped onion, and minced garlic.
2. Add the chopped fresh parsley, lightly beaten egg, salt, black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder to the bowl.
3. Mix all ingredients thoroughly with a spoon or your hands until everything is evenly distributed.
4. Take about 1-2 tablespoons of the mixture and roll it into a ball with your hands. Repeat with the remaining mixture.
5. Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep pan or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. The oil is ready when a small piece of the mixture sizzles immediately.
6. Carefully place the oat balls into the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan (work in batches if needed).
7. Fry for 3-5 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are golden brown and crispy.
8. Remove the fried balls with a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
9. Serve hot and enjoy!

Optional Toppings/Variations

Want to kick things up a notch? Here are some delicious ways to customize your fried balls:

• Spicy Mayo Dip: Mix 1/4 cup of mayonnaise with 1-2 teaspoons of your favorite hot sauce for a creamy, spicy dipping sauce.
• Garlic Herb Dip: Combine 1/4 cup plain yogurt or sour cream with 1 minced garlic clove, 1 teaspoon fresh dill, 1 teaspoon fresh parsley, and a pinch of salt.
• Lemon Zest: Sprinkle a bit of fresh lemon zest over the fried balls before serving for a zesty touch.

Expert Tips

• Make sure your chicken is completely cooked before mixing. You can use leftovers or roast a chicken breast specifically for this recipe.
• Do not overcrowd the pan while frying; this will lower the oil temperature and lead to soggy fried balls. Work in batches.
• Test the oil temperature before you start frying. If the oil is not hot enough, the balls will absorb too much oil.
• Use your hands to mix the ingredients thoroughly for even distribution of flavors.
• For extra flavor, you can lightly toast the oats in a dry pan for a few minutes before mixing them into the recipe.

FAQ About Easy & Healthy Fried Carrot Chicken Oat Balls

• Can I substitute the ground chicken with turkey or other ground meat? Yes, ground turkey or lean ground beef can be used as a substitute. Ensure it is cooked before use.
• Can these be made ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the mixture and form the balls in advance. Store them covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Fry just before serving for the best texture.
• Can I bake these instead of frying? Yes, you can bake them. Place the formed balls on a greased baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown. However, frying yields a crispier texture.
• How long do leftovers last? Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or a skillet to crisp them up again.
• Can I freeze these after frying? Yes, you can freeze them after frying. Once cooled, place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to eat, reheat them in the oven or air fryer until heated through and crispy again.

Variations and Customization Options

Get creative with these tasty balls! Here are some ways to make them your own:

• Cheese Please: Add a bit of shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese into the mixture.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some red pepper flakes to the mixture for a spicy kick.
• Herbaceous Delight: Experiment with different herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano.
• Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with a can of rinsed and drained black beans or lentils.
• Asian Inspired: Add some minced ginger, soy sauce, and chopped scallions for an Asian twist.

Serving Suggestions

These Easy & Healthy Fried Carrot Chicken Oat Balls are versatile and can be enjoyed in so many ways. Serve them as a crowd-pleasing appetizer with your favorite dipping sauce, or add them to a buffet table for a casual get-together. They also make a delicious and satisfying snack, or part of a fun, balanced dinner. Try them alongside a fresh salad or roasted vegetables.

Conclusion

Ready to impress your family and friends with a treat that’s both delicious and surprisingly easy to make? These Easy & Healthy Fried Carrot Chicken Oat Balls are a surefire way to elevate your mealtime game. Give them a try and let us know what you think! Don’t forget to share your photos and subscribe to our newsletter for more exciting recipes! 

Related Recipes You’ll Love

• Swiss Chard and Eggs Benedict
• Stuffed Mushrooms

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