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Chicken Patties
About This Recipe
Chicken patties are one of the most reliable, family-friendly dishes you can make at home. They are tender on the inside, lightly crispy on the outside, and packed with flavor in every bite. Whether you use them for sandwiches, serve them alongside salads, or enjoy them as a quick protein-rich snack, homemade chicken patties offer versatility and delicious comfort that store-bought versions can’t match.
This recipe brings together ground chicken, simple seasonings, and a few pantry staples to create a mixture that cooks beautifully in a skillet. The patties brown nicely, hold their shape, and remain juicy thanks to the perfect balance of binding ingredients and moisture. It’s an ideal option for busy weeknights, meal prep, or feeding a crowd without spending a lot of time in the kitchen.
Why You’ll Love These Chicken Patties
Chicken patties offer the simplicity that home cooks appreciate while still delivering comforting, satisfying flavor. Because the seasoning is mild and adjustable, you can adapt the recipe to any taste preference—mild for kids, spicy for adults, or herb-forward for a lighter, Mediterranean twist. They cook quickly, require minimal preparation, and use ingredients most people already have in their kitchen.
Another reason these patties stand out is how wonderfully versatile they are. Once cooked, they work in endless dishes: sandwiches, wraps, grain bowls, sliders, salads, or even served plain with dipping sauce. Their soft texture and rich flavor make them a great alternative to beef burgers or processed chicken patties.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)
- 1 small onion, finely grated or minced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano (optional)
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)
- 1–2 tablespoons oil for frying
Step-by-Step Instructions
Begin by preparing the ingredients. Finely grate the onion so it blends seamlessly into the chicken mixture without leaving large chunks. This helps the patties stay moist and ensures they cook evenly.
In a large mixing bowl, add the ground chicken, egg, breadcrumbs, grated onion, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, paprika, and any optional herbs you prefer. Using clean hands or a sturdy spoon, mix the ingredients gently until they are well combined. The mixture should feel slightly sticky but firm enough to shape. If it feels too wet, add a touch more breadcrumbs; if it feels too dry, add a teaspoon of water or a splash of milk.
Once the mixture is ready, divide it into four to six equal portions depending on the size of patties you want. Lightly oil your hands and shape each portion into a patty about one-half inch thick. Thinner patties cook more quickly, while thicker patties stay extra juicy—choose the thickness that suits your preference.
Heat one to two tablespoons of oil in a skillet over medium heat. When the oil is hot, carefully place the patties into the pan. Make sure not to overcrowd the skillet to ensure even browning. Cook the patties for about 4 to 5 minutes on the first side or until beautifully golden.
Flip the patties and continue cooking for another 4 to 5 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Avoid pressing down on the patties while they cook—this squeezes out the juices and can make them dry. Once they are done, transfer them to a plate and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
You can also bake the patties if you prefer a lighter cooking method. Simply place the shaped patties on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 18–20 minutes, flipping halfway through. Baking keeps the patties moist and requires no added oil.
Serving Ideas
Chicken patties adapt beautifully to many types of meals. For a satisfying lunch or dinner, serve them on toasted buns with lettuce, tomato, pickles, and your favorite condiments. They also pair well with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, rice pilaf, or a crisp green salad.
If you're aiming for something lighter, slice the patties and use them in salad bowls or wraps. Their mild flavor makes them perfect for Mediterranean bowls, Caesar salads, or quinoa-based meals. For snack-style serving, cut them into smaller pieces and pair them with dipping sauces such as honey mustard, ranch, garlic aioli, or sweet chili sauce.
These patties also make an excellent meal-prep protein. Once cooked, they keep well in the refrigerator and can be reheated for quick lunches throughout the week. Their versatility ensures you never feel like you're eating the same thing twice.
You Must Know
Ground chicken can vary in moisture content depending on the brand and cut. If your mixture seems overly sticky, add more breadcrumbs slowly until it holds together. If it’s too dry, a small splash of milk will restore the right texture. Letting the mixture rest for 10 minutes before shaping helps the breadcrumbs absorb excess moisture.
For extra flavorful patties, you can sauté the onion and garlic briefly before adding them to the mixture. This step caramelizes the onions slightly and enhances the overall taste. You can also experiment with additional spices like cumin, chili powder, or Italian seasoning based on your preferred flavor profile.
Storage Tips
Cooked chicken patties can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat them without drying out, warm them in a skillet over low heat or place them in an oven at 300°F (150°C) until heated through.
If you want to freeze the patties, shape them first and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be cooked straight from frozen—simply add a few extra minutes of cooking time.