These homemade chicken patties are juicy, flavorful, and incredibly versatile. Whether served on their own with a dipping sauce, or in a sandwich, these patties make for a quick and satisfying meal. Made with simple ingredients like ground chicken, breadcrumbs, and Parmesan cheese, they are easy to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights or a casual lunch.
Ingredients:
1 pound ground chicken
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup finely chopped onion
1/4 cup finely chopped bell pepper (any color)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 egg, beaten
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried parsley)
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
2 tablespoons olive oil (for frying)
Preparation:
- Prepare the Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, onion, bell pepper, minced garlic, beaten egg, parsley, salt, black pepper, paprika, and oregano.
Mix all the ingredients until evenly incorporated. Be sure not to overmix, as this can make the patties tough.
- Shape the Patties:
Divide the chicken mixture into 6-8 equal portions, depending on the size you prefer.
Shape each portion into a patty about 1/2 inch thick.
- Heat the Oil:
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Cook the Patties:
Once the oil is hot, add the patties to the skillet in a single layer.
Cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side, until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature of the patties should reach 165°F (74°C) to ensure they are safe to eat.
- Serve:
Remove the patties from the skillet and place them on paper towels to drain any excess oil.
Serve the patties hot with your favorite dipping sauce, or make chicken patty sandwiches by adding buns, lettuce, tomato, and condiments of your choice.
Tips and Variations:
Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the mixture for a little heat.
Cheese Options: While Parmesan cheese adds a nice depth of flavor, you can switch it up with cheddar, mozzarella, or even feta cheese for a different twist.
Add Veggies: Incorporate grated zucchini or carrots into the mixture for extra moisture and nutrition. Just be sure to squeeze out any excess water from the vegetables before mixing them in.
Breadcrumb Substitutes: If you’re avoiding breadcrumbs, try using almond flour or crushed crackers for a gluten-free option.
Make It Mini: For party appetizers or a fun snack, shape the mixture into mini patties and serve with dipping sauces like ranch, barbecue, or sriracha mayo.
Bake Instead of Fry: For a healthier option, bake the patties in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through. They’ll be just as delicious with less oil.
How to Store:
Refrigeration: Store leftover chicken patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave, oven, or skillet until warmed through.
Freezing: These patties freeze well! After cooking, let the patties cool completely, then store them in a freezer-safe container or ziplock bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop or in the oven.
FAQs:
- Can I use ground turkey instead of ground chicken? Yes, ground turkey works well as a substitute for ground chicken. The patties will still be flavorful and moist, though turkey tends to be a bit leaner than chicken.
- Can I make the patties in advance? Definitely! You can prepare the chicken mixture and shape the patties ahead of time. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking, or freeze them uncooked for longer storage.
- What can I serve with these chicken patties? These patties pair well with a wide variety of sides. Serve them with a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, sweet potato fries, or a side of coleslaw for a complete meal. If you’re making sandwiches, classic burger toppings like lettuce, tomato, and cheese work great.
- How do I keep the patties from falling apart? The egg and breadcrumbs in this recipe help bind the mixture together. If your patties are falling apart, try adding a little more breadcrumbs or let the patties chill in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes before cooking to firm them up.
- Can I bake these patties instead of frying? Yes, baking is a great alternative if you want a lower-fat option. Simply place the patties on a lined baking sheet and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through for even cooking.
These homemade chicken patties are packed with flavor and super versatile. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to impress at a gathering, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Enjoy them as a sandwich or on their own with your favorite sides!