Chicken Patties are a versatile and delicious meal that can be served in various ways, from a quick dinner to a packed lunch. Made with ground chicken, breadcrumbs, eggs, and a mix of seasonings like garlic, onion, and herbs, these patties are pan-fried or baked until golden and crispy on the outside while remaining juicy and tender inside. They can be served on a bun for a burger-style meal, paired with a side of veggies, or crumbled into salads or bowls for added protein.
The first time I made chicken patties; I was amazed at how flavorful and easy they were to prepare. You can customize the seasoning to fit your taste, whether you want something classic with Italian herbs or a bit spicier with chili flakes and cumin. A delicious homemade sauce or aioli on top can take these patties to the next level. Perfect for meal prep, these chicken patties are a simple yet satisfying option for any time of the day!
Perfect for:
- Family meals
- Party snacks
- Picnics
- Lunchboxes
- Chicken lovers
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Here are 10 reasons why these Chicken Patties will be your go-to dish:
- Savory and Flavorful: The combination of seasoned chicken with aromatic herbs and spices makes for a savory treat.
- Crispy Texture: The crispy golden exterior gives a satisfying crunch with every bite.
- Juicy Chicken Filling: The filling stays moist and tender, packed with flavor.
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and a straightforward cooking process make these patties a breeze to prepare.
- Customizable Seasoning: Adjust the spices and herbs to match your taste preferences.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether for a quick dinner, picnic, or party, these patties are a crowd-pleaser.
- Versatile Dish: Enjoy these patties as an appetizer, snack, or served with rice or a side salad.
- Freezable Option: Make a batch in advance and freeze for a quick meal option later.
- Great for Meal Prep: These patties are perfect for preparing ahead of time for a busy week.
- Kid-Friendly: The crispy exterior and tender interior make these patties a hit with kids and adults alike.
Preparation and Cooking Time
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 12 patties
- Calories per serving: Approximately 200-250 calories
- Key Nutrients: Protein: 18g, Carbs: 15g, Fat: 12g
Ingredients
For the Chicken Patties:
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large egg
- ¼ cup breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil for frying
Optional Dipping Sauce:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- A pinch of salt and pepper
Ingredient Highlights
- Ground Chicken: Lean and tender, it’s the perfect base for a flavorful patty.
- Breadcrumbs: Provide structure and lightness to the patties.
- Paprika and Thyme: Add aromatic depth and subtle earthy flavors.
- Egg: Binds the ingredients together, ensuring a cohesive patty.
- Parsley: Freshens up the flavor with a pop of green.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Make the Chicken Patties:
- Prepare the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, chopped onion, garlic, egg, breadcrumbs, salt, pepper, paprika, thyme, and parsley.
- Mix the Ingredients: Use your hands or a spoon to mix until all the ingredients are well combined.
- Form Patties: Shape the mixture into 12 evenly sized patties, about 3 inches in diameter.
- Heat the Oil: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Cook the Patties: Add the patties to the skillet and cook for 5-6 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and fully cooked through. Remove from the skillet and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
Make the Dipping Sauce (Optional):
- Combine the Ingredients: In a small bowl, mix together mayonnaise, ketchup, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth and combined.
Serve:
- Plate and Enjoy: Serve the chicken patties with the optional dipping sauce and enjoy while hot.
How to Serve
Here are 10 serving suggestions for Chicken Patties:
- As a Snack: Perfect for an afternoon treat or as part of a light appetizer platter.
- With a Side Salad: Pair with a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
- In a Sandwich: Serve the patties on a sandwich bun with lettuce, tomato, and your favorite condiments.
- As a Party Snack: Serve these patties as finger food at parties or gatherings.
- With Rice or Noodles: A great addition to a rice or noodle dish for a filling meal.
- With Pickles: Serve with tangy pickles on the side for extra flavor.
- On a Bun with Cheese: Add a slice of cheese for a simple chicken burger.
- For Meal Prep: Pack them with your favorite sides for a ready-to-go lunch.
- As a Picnic Delight: Perfect for taking along on picnics or outdoor events.
- With Fresh Vegetables: Pair with steamed or roasted vegetables for a wholesome meal.
Additional Tips
- Don’t Overmix the Patties: Mixing too much can make the patties dense. Combine the ingredients gently.
- Use a Nonstick Skillet: This will prevent the patties from sticking and make flipping easier.
- Check for Doneness: Ensure the patties are cooked through by cutting one open. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
- Add Cheese to the Patties: For extra flavor, add a small cube of cheese inside the patties before cooking.
- Adjust the Spice Level: For a milder flavor, omit the cayenne pepper or reduce the amount of paprika.
Recipe Variations
- Spicy Chicken Patties: Add more cayenne pepper or chili flakes for an extra kick.
- Lemon and Herb Patties: Add lemon zest and fresh basil for a refreshing flavor profile.
- Cheese-Stuffed Patties: Place a cube of cheese inside the patty before frying for a melty surprise.
- Gluten-Free Patties: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour for a gluten-free option.
- Baked Chicken Patties: Bake the patties in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes for a lighter, less greasy option.
- Vegetable Chicken Patties: Add finely chopped vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or spinach to the patty mixture for added nutrition.
- Curry Chicken Patties: Add curry powder or garam masala to the seasoning mix for a flavorful twist.
- Crispy Baked Patties: For a crispy crust without frying, coat the patties in breadcrumbs and bake them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Vegan Patties: Replace ground chicken with mashed chickpeas or lentils for a plant-based version.
Special Equipment
- Nonstick Skillet: For easy cooking and flipping of the patties.
- Mixing Bowl: To combine all the ingredients for the patties.
- Spoon or Ice Cream Scoop: To evenly shape the patties.
- Spatula: For flipping the patties in the skillet.
- Paper Towels: To drain excess oil from the cooked patties.
FAQ Section
- Can I use chicken breast instead of ground chicken?
Yes, finely chop or pulse chicken breast in a food processor to create a ground-like texture. - Can I freeze the patties?
Yes, freeze uncooked patties on a baking sheet, then transfer to a container for up to 2 months. Cook from frozen when ready to eat. - How do I prevent the patties from falling apart?
Ensure the mixture is well-combined and don’t overhandle it. Adding breadcrumbs or an extra egg can help bind the patties together. - Can I bake these patties instead of frying?
Yes, bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through. - Can I use store-bought breadcrumbs?
Absolutely! Store-bought breadcrumbs work just as well. - How do I know when the patties are cooked through?
Cut one patty open to check that it is no longer pink inside. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). - Can I make the patties in advance?
Yes, make the patties ahead of time and store them in the fridge for up to 2 days before frying. - How do I make these patties spicier?
Add extra cayenne pepper or chili powder to the mixture for more heat. - Can I add vegetables to the patties?
Yes, finely chopped vegetables like carrots, spinach, or zucchini work well in the patty mixture. - Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?
Yes, ground turkey makes a great alternative and will work similarly in this recipe.
Conclusion
Chicken Patties are a versatile and flavorful dish that’s perfect for meal prepping, quick dinners, or as a hearty sandwich filling. These patties are made by mixing ground or finely chopped chicken with breadcrumbs, eggs, and seasonings like garlic, onion, parsley, salt, and pepper. You can also add grated cheese, grated vegetables, or spices to customize the flavor to your liking.
Once mixed, the chicken mixture is shaped into patties and pan-fried or baked until golden and cooked through. The crispy outer crust gives way to a tender, juicy interior, making them both satisfying and delicious. Serve your chicken patties on a bun with your favorite toppings like lettuce, tomato, and a sauce like mayo, mustard, or barbecue sauce for a chicken burger-style meal. Or serve them on their own with a side of vegetables or a salad for a lighter option. These patties are easy to make ahead and store well in the fridge or freezer, making them great for meal prep.
I can’t wait to see how your Chicken Patties turn out! Be sure to share your photos on Instagram and tag me—I’d love to see your tasty creations. Don’t forget to leave a comment and let me know how you made this dish your own!