Best Homemade Chicken Patties Recipe

There’s something undeniably comforting and satisfying about biting into a perfectly cooked chicken patty. Forget those bland, rubbery frozen patties you might find in the supermarket freezer aisle. Once you taste these homemade chicken patties, you’ll understand what you’ve been missing. In my house, chicken patties were always a weeknight staple, but they often felt like a compromise – convenient, yes, but lacking in flavor and texture. That was until I decided to take matters into my own hands and create a chicken patty recipe that was not only quick and easy but also bursting with flavor and boasting a delightful crispy exterior. The result? Pure chicken patty perfection! My family, even the pickiest eaters, absolutely devour these. The juicy, seasoned chicken inside, encased in a golden-brown, crunchy crust, is simply irresistible. Whether we’re piling them onto soft buns with all the fixings, serving them alongside a fresh salad, or even enjoying them sliced on top of a pizza (yes, really!), these homemade chicken patties have become a beloved family favorite, and I’m thrilled to share the recipe with you so you can experience the joy of truly delicious, homemade chicken patties too. Get ready to say goodbye to store-bought patties forever!

Ingredients

To create these incredibly flavorful and satisfying chicken patties, you’ll need a handful of readily available ingredients. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the ability to customize the flavors to your liking. This recipe focuses on creating patties that are both juicy on the inside and wonderfully crispy on the outside, using a combination of breadcrumbs and seasonings to achieve the perfect texture and taste. Here’s what you’ll need to gather:

• 1.5 pounds Ground Chicken: The star of the show! Opt for ground chicken that isn’t overly lean. A little bit of fat (around 90% lean) will ensure your patties are moist and juicy, not dry. You can use ground chicken breast or a mix of breast and thigh for richer flavor.
• 1 cup Panko Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs are crucial for achieving that signature crispy exterior. Their larger, coarser texture creates a much more satisfying crunch compared to regular breadcrumbs. If you don’t have panko, you can use regular breadcrumbs, but the texture will be slightly different.
• ½ cup Finely Diced Yellow Onion: Onion adds a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor to the patties. Make sure to dice it finely so it cooks through evenly and doesn’t leave any large chunks in your patties.
• 2 cloves Garlic, Minced: Garlic is essential for adding savory notes and aroma. Freshly minced garlic is always best, but you can use ½ teaspoon of garlic powder if you’re in a pinch.
• 1 Large Egg: The egg acts as a binder, helping to hold the patties together and adding moisture.
• 2 tablespoons Dijon Mustard: Dijon mustard adds a tangy kick and enhances the savory flavors of the chicken. It also helps to tenderize the chicken slightly.
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire Sauce: Worcestershire sauce provides a umami depth and complexity of flavor that really elevates the patties. Don’t skip this ingredient!
• 1 teaspoon Dried Italian Seasoning: This blend of herbs adds a classic Italian flavor profile that complements chicken beautifully. You can also use a mix of individual dried herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme.
• ½ teaspoon Paprika: Paprika adds a subtle smoky sweetness and a beautiful color to the patties. You can use regular paprika or smoked paprika for a deeper smoky flavor.
• ½ teaspoon Salt: Salt is crucial for seasoning and bringing out the flavors of all the other ingredients. Adjust the amount to your taste.
• ¼ teaspoon Black Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper adds a touch of spice and enhances the overall flavor profile.
• ¼ teaspoon Garlic Powder: A little extra garlic powder enhances the garlic flavor and complements the fresh minced garlic.
• ¼ cup Vegetable Oil or Olive Oil: For cooking the patties. Vegetable oil is neutral in flavor and works well for frying, while olive oil adds a subtle fruity note. You can also use avocado oil or canola oil.

Optional Ingredients for Flavor Variations:

• For Spicy Patties: Add ½ teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mixture.
• For Cheesy Patties: Mix in ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese or Monterey Jack cheese to the patty mixture.
• For Herbaceous Patties: Add 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley or chives to the mixture.
• For Asian-Inspired Patties: Replace Italian seasoning with ½ teaspoon of ginger powder and a tablespoon of soy sauce.

These ingredients work together to create chicken patties that are not only delicious but also have a fantastic texture. The panko breadcrumbs ensure a crispy crust, while the egg, onion, and seasonings keep the inside moist and flavorful. Gather your ingredients and get ready to make some truly amazing homemade chicken patties!

Instructions

Making these homemade chicken patties is surprisingly easy and straightforward. With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a batch of delicious, crispy, and juicy patties ready to enjoy. Follow these step-by-step instructions for perfect results every time:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Patty Mixture

1. Combine Ingredients in a Large Bowl: In a large mixing bowl, add the ground chicken, panko breadcrumbs, finely diced yellow onion, minced garlic, egg, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
2. Mix Gently but Thoroughly: Using your hands or a spatula, gently mix all the ingredients together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in tough patties. You want the ingredients to be evenly distributed, but the mixture should still be slightly loose. Overmixing develops the gluten in the ground chicken (even though it’s not technically gluten), leading to a denser, less tender patty.
3. Rest the Mixture (Optional but Recommended): Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the mixture for at least 15-20 minutes, or even up to 30 minutes. This resting time allows the flavors to meld together and the breadcrumbs to absorb some of the moisture, making the patties easier to shape and hold together. It also helps the patties retain their shape better during cooking.

Step 2: Shape the Chicken Patties

1. Divide the Mixture: Divide the chicken mixture evenly into 6-8 portions, depending on your desired patty size. Using a spoon or your hands, you can roughly portion them out.
2. Shape into Patties: Take one portion of the mixture and gently shape it into a patty about ¾ inch thick and 3-4 inches in diameter. You can use your hands to gently flatten and shape the patty. Try to make them uniform in size and thickness so they cook evenly. Don’t press too hard, keep them relatively light and airy.
3. Place Patties on a Plate or Baking Sheet: As you shape each patty, place it on a plate or baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This prevents them from sticking and makes for easier cleanup. If you are stacking patties, place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken Patties

You can cook the chicken patties using a few different methods: pan-frying, baking, or air frying. Pan-frying gives the most classic crispy crust, while baking is a healthier option, and air frying is a quick and convenient method.

Method 1: Pan-Frying (Recommended for Crispiest Patties)

1. Heat Oil in a Large Skillet: Heat vegetable oil or olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. You’ll want enough oil to coat the bottom of the skillet and come up about ¼ inch. Let the oil heat up properly before adding the patties; it should shimmer and be hot enough to sizzle gently when a drop of water is added.
2. Cook Patties in Batches: Carefully place the chicken patties in the hot skillet, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Cook in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking and crisping. Overcrowding will lower the temperature of the oil and lead to steaming rather than frying, resulting in less crispy patties.
3. Cook for 4-5 Minutes per Side: Cook the patties for 4-5 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Flip them gently with a spatula. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) when measured with a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the patty.
4. Remove and Drain Excess Oil: Once cooked through and golden brown, remove the patties from the skillet and place them on a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. This helps maintain their crispiness.

Method 2: Baking (Healthier Option)

1. Preheat Oven to 400°F (200°C): Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Place Patties on Baking Sheet: Arrange the chicken patties on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between them.
3. Bake for 20-25 Minutes: Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, or until the patties are cooked through and lightly golden brown. Again, ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
4. Broil for Extra Crispiness (Optional): For extra crispiness, you can broil the patties for the last 1-2 minutes on each side, keeping a close eye on them to prevent burning.

Method 3: Air Frying (Quick and Convenient)

1. Preheat Air Fryer to 375°F (190°C): Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. Place Patties in Air Fryer Basket: Place the chicken patties in the air fryer basket in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd. You may need to cook in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.
3. Air Fry for 12-15 Minutes: Air fry for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, or until the patties are cooked through and golden brown. Check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!

Once your chicken patties are cooked to perfection, they are ready to be served! Enjoy them immediately while they are hot and crispy. See the “How to Serve” section below for delicious serving suggestions.

Following these instructions will guide you to create consistently delicious and perfectly cooked homemade chicken patties every time. The key is to not overmix the ingredients, shape the patties gently, and cook them until they are golden brown and reach the safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Nutrition Facts

Understanding the nutritional content of your food is important for making informed dietary choices. These nutrition facts are approximate and can vary slightly based on the specific ingredients used and the portion sizes. The following information is based on a serving size of one chicken patty, using the ingredients listed above and assuming the recipe yields 6 patties.

Serving Size: 1 Chicken Patty

Approximate Nutrition Facts per Serving:

• Calories: 280-320 kcal
• Protein: 25-30g
• Fat: 15-20g
  • Saturated Fat: 3-5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10-15g
• Cholesterol: 100-120mg
• Sodium: 400-500mg
• Carbohydrates: 8-12g
  • Fiber: 1-2g
  • Sugar: 1-2g

Important Notes:

• These are estimates: The exact nutritional values can vary depending on the specific brand of ingredients used, the fat content of the ground chicken, and the amount of oil absorbed during cooking.
• Cooking Method Impacts Fat Content: Pan-frying will generally result in slightly higher fat content compared to baking or air frying, as the patties may absorb some oil during frying.
• Serving Size Matters: The nutrition facts are based on one patty. Adjust accordingly if you are consuming more than one patty per serving.
• Customize for Dietary Needs: You can make adjustments to the recipe to better suit your dietary needs. For example, using leaner ground chicken will reduce the fat content, and using whole wheat breadcrumbs can increase the fiber content.

General Nutritional Benefits:

• High in Protein: Chicken patties are a good source of lean protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues, supporting muscle growth, and promoting satiety.
• Moderate in Fat: While they do contain fat, the fat content can be managed by choosing leaner ground chicken and opting for baking or air frying methods.
• Source of Vitamins and Minerals: Chicken provides various vitamins and minerals, including B vitamins, phosphorus, and selenium.

For more precise nutritional information, you can use online nutrition calculators or apps, inputting the specific ingredients and quantities you use in your recipe. Remember to enjoy these homemade chicken patties in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Preparation Time

One of the great advantages of this homemade chicken patty recipe is its relatively quick preparation time. From start to finish, you can have delicious, freshly cooked chicken patties on the table in under an hour. Here’s a breakdown of the estimated preparation times:

• Prep Time: 20-25 minutes
  • This includes the time it takes to gather your ingredients, chop the onion and garlic, measure out the spices, and mix all the ingredients together to form the patty mixture.
  • Shaping the patties also falls under prep time.
  • The optional resting time in the refrigerator (15-30 minutes) is also included in the prep time, although this is passive time where you don’t need to be actively working on the recipe.
• Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
  • This is the time it takes to cook the chicken patties, whether you choose to pan-fry, bake, or air fry them.
  • Pan-frying typically takes around 15-20 minutes total for all patties, depending on batch sizes.
  • Baking takes approximately 20-25 minutes.
  • Air frying is usually the quickest, taking around 12-15 minutes.
• Total Time: 35-45 minutes

Time-Saving Tips:

• Prep Ahead: You can prepare the chicken patty mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. This is a great way to save time on busy weeknights. Just shape and cook them when you’re ready to eat.
• Utilize Kitchen Tools: Using a food processor to finely chop the onion and garlic can significantly speed up the prep process.
• Organize Ingredients: Having all your ingredients measured and prepped before you start mixing will make the process smoother and faster.

Why Homemade is Worth the Time:

While store-bought frozen chicken patties are certainly convenient, the minimal extra time spent making them from scratch is well worth it. Homemade patties offer:

• Superior Flavor: You control the ingredients and seasonings, resulting in a much more flavorful and satisfying patty.
• Better Texture: Homemade patties are typically juicier and crispier than frozen patties.
• Healthier Options: You can choose leaner ground chicken and control the amount of salt and other additives.
• Customization: You can easily customize the flavors to your liking by adding different spices, herbs, or cheeses.

In just under 45 minutes, you can create a batch of delicious, homemade chicken patties that are far superior to anything you can buy pre-made. The short preparation time makes this recipe perfect for weeknight meals or quick lunches.

How to Serve Your Delicious Chicken Patties

These versatile homemade chicken patties are delicious in so many ways! Their crispy exterior and juicy interior make them a fantastic base for a variety of meals. Here are some creative and tasty ways to serve your chicken patties:

• Classic Chicken Patty Burgers:
  • Buns: Toast your favorite hamburger buns – sesame seed, brioche, or potato buns all work wonderfully.
  • Sauces: Spread your buns with your favorite burger sauces – mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, BBQ sauce, or a tangy aioli.
  • Toppings: Load up on classic burger toppings like crisp lettuce, sliced tomatoes, red onion rings, pickles, and cheese (cheddar, American, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack are great choices).
  • Elevate it: Add gourmet toppings like caramelized onions, sautéed mushrooms, avocado slices, or crispy bacon for an extra special burger.
• Chicken Patty Salad:
  • Salad Base: Slice the cooked chicken patties and arrange them on top of a bed of fresh greens – mixed greens, romaine, spinach, or arugula.
  • Dressings: Choose a complementary dressing – ranch, honey mustard, Caesar, vinaigrette, or a creamy avocado dressing.
  • Salad Additions: Add other salad ingredients like cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, bell peppers, shredded carrots, red onion, croutons, hard-boiled eggs, and crumbled cheese (feta, blue cheese, or goat cheese).
  • Protein Boost: This makes a hearty and protein-packed salad, perfect for a light yet satisfying lunch or dinner.
• Chicken Patty Wraps:
  • Wraps: Use large tortillas (flour, whole wheat, or spinach) or pita bread.
  • Spreads: Spread a thin layer of hummus, guacamole, cream cheese, or a flavored mayonnaise on the wrap.
  • Fillings: Add sliced chicken patty, shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, and your favorite wrap fillings like black beans, corn, salsa, or avocado.
  • Quick and Portable: Wraps are a fantastic option for a quick lunch on the go or a light and flavorful dinner.
• Chicken Patty Bowls:
  • Base: Create a bowl with a base of rice (white, brown, or quinoa), mashed potatoes, roasted sweet potatoes, or couscous.
  • Protein: Top with sliced or diced chicken patties.
  • Vegetables: Add roasted vegetables (broccoli, carrots, Brussels sprouts), steamed vegetables, or a fresh side salad.
  • Sauces: Drizzle with your favorite sauces – gravy, teriyaki sauce, honey mustard, or a creamy cilantro-lime dressing.
  • Complete Meal: Bowl meals are customizable and allow you to create a balanced and satisfying meal with protein, carbohydrates, and vegetables.
• Chicken Patty Pizza Topping:
  • Slice and Dice: Slice or dice the cooked chicken patties into smaller pieces.
  • Pizza Base: Use your favorite pizza dough or pre-made pizza crust.
  • Sauce and Cheese: Spread pizza sauce and sprinkle with mozzarella cheese.
  • Toppings: Distribute the chicken patty pieces over the cheese, along with other pizza toppings like mushrooms, onions, peppers, olives, or pepperoni.
  • Unique Pizza Flavor: Chicken patties add a unique and delicious protein element to your homemade pizza.
• Side Dishes to Complement Chicken Patties:
  • French Fries or Sweet Potato Fries: Classic and always a crowd-pleaser.
  • Onion Rings: For a crispy and satisfying side.
  • Coleslaw or Potato Salad: Creamy and refreshing sides that pair well with chicken patties.
  • Mac and Cheese: A comforting and cheesy side dish.
  • Green Beans or Roasted Vegetables: For a healthier side option.

No matter how you choose to serve them, these homemade chicken patties are sure to be a hit. Get creative and experiment with different toppings, sauces, and sides to discover your favorite way to enjoy them!

Top 5 Tips for Perfect Chicken Patties Every Time

Making perfect chicken patties is easier than you might think, but a few key tips can elevate your results from good to absolutely fantastic. Here are five essential tips to ensure your homemade chicken patties are consistently delicious, juicy, and crispy:

1. Don’t Overmix the Chicken Mixture: Overmixing is a common mistake that can lead to tough, dense chicken patties. When you mix ground meat too much, you develop the proteins, resulting in a firmer texture. Mix the ingredients just until they are combined and evenly distributed. Use your hands or a spatula and gently fold the ingredients together until everything is incorporated. A slightly looser mixture is better than an overmixed one.
2. Rest the Patty Mixture in the Refrigerator: Allowing the chicken patty mixture to rest in the refrigerator for at least 15-20 minutes (or up to 30 minutes) is crucial for several reasons. First, it allows the flavors to meld and deepen, resulting in a more flavorful patty. Second, it helps the panko breadcrumbs absorb some of the moisture, which makes the patties easier to shape and less likely to fall apart. Finally, chilling the mixture firms it up slightly, making it easier to handle and shape into patties that hold their form during cooking.
3. Use Panko Breadcrumbs for Maximum Crispiness: Panko breadcrumbs are the secret weapon for achieving that signature crispy crust on chicken patties. Panko breadcrumbs are larger and coarser than regular breadcrumbs, which creates more air pockets and a lighter, crispier texture when cooked. If you substitute regular breadcrumbs, the patties will still be tasty, but they won’t have the same satisfying crunch. You can find panko breadcrumbs in most grocery stores, usually in the baking aisle or near the breadcrumbs.
4. Control the Cooking Temperature and Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Whether you are pan-frying, baking, or air frying, maintaining the correct cooking temperature is essential for even cooking and crispiness. For pan-frying, use medium-high heat and ensure the oil is hot before adding the patties. Don’t overcrowd the pan, as this will lower the oil temperature and lead to steaming instead of frying, resulting in soggy patties. Cook in batches if necessary. For baking and air frying, follow the temperature guidelines in the recipe and ensure the patties are spaced out on the baking sheet or in the air fryer basket for proper air circulation and even browning.
5. Use a Meat Thermometer to Ensure Doneness: Safety and perfect texture go hand in hand. Using a meat thermometer is the most accurate way to ensure your chicken patties are cooked to a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and prevent overcooking, which can lead to dry patties. Insert the meat thermometer into the thickest part of a patty to check the temperature. Cook until the thermometer reads 165°F (74°C). Once they reach this temperature, remove them from the heat promptly to avoid overcooking. Visually, the patties should be golden brown on the outside and no longer pink inside.

By following these five simple tips, you’ll be well on your way to making consistently perfect, homemade chicken patties that are crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and bursting with flavor. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!

Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Patties

Making homemade chicken patties might seem straightforward, but it’s natural to have questions, especially if you’re trying a new recipe for the first time. Here are five frequently asked questions about chicken patties, along with helpful answers to ensure your success:

Q1: Can I use ground turkey instead of ground chicken?

A: Yes, absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute for ground chicken in this recipe. The cooking process and other ingredients remain the same. Ground turkey tends to be leaner than ground chicken, so your patties might be slightly less juicy, but they will still be delicious and a healthier option. You can use ground turkey breast or ground turkey thigh for a richer flavor. Just be sure to cook ground turkey to the same internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) as ground chicken.

Q2: Can I freeze cooked chicken patties?

A: Yes, cooked chicken patties freeze exceptionally well, making them perfect for meal prepping and quick weeknight meals. To freeze cooked patties, let them cool completely after cooking. Then, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze for about 1-2 hours until solid. Once frozen solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. This pre-freezing step prevents them from sticking together in the freezer. Frozen cooked chicken patties can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, you can bake them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, air fry them at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes, or pan-fry them over medium heat until heated through and crispy.

Q3: What can I use if I don’t have panko breadcrumbs?

A: While panko breadcrumbs are highly recommended for their superior crispiness, you can substitute them with regular breadcrumbs if needed. However, the texture will be slightly different, and the patties might not be quite as crispy. If using regular breadcrumbs, you can try toasting them lightly in a dry skillet before adding them to the patty mixture to enhance their texture. Alternatively, you could use crushed crackers (like Ritz crackers or saltines) or even finely ground cornflake crumbs as a substitute for panko for a different texture variation.

Q4: How can I prevent my chicken patties from being dry?

A: Dry chicken patties are a common concern, but there are several ways to prevent this. First, avoid using overly lean ground chicken; a little bit of fat (around 90% lean) will help keep them moist. Second, don’t overcook the patties. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach 165°F (74°C) but don’t cook them beyond that. Overcooking dries out the chicken. Third, adding ingredients like egg, onion, and Dijon mustard helps to add moisture and tenderness to the patties. Finally, avoid overmixing the patty mixture, as this can also contribute to tougher, drier patties.

Q5: Can I add other seasonings or spices to the patties?

A: Absolutely! This recipe is a great base, and you can easily customize the flavor profile by adding other seasonings and spices to suit your taste preferences. Some delicious additions include:

• Spicy: Red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, chili powder, smoked paprika, or a dash of hot sauce.
• Herby: Fresh herbs like chopped parsley, chives, dill, or cilantro; or dried herbs like oregano, thyme, or rosemary.
• Savory: Onion powder, smoked salt, celery salt, or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
• Asian-Inspired: Ginger powder, garlic chili sauce, soy sauce, sesame oil, or chopped scallions.

Feel free to experiment with different combinations of seasonings to create your own signature chicken patty flavor!

These FAQs should address common questions and concerns about making homemade chicken patties. Don’t hesitate to experiment and adjust the recipe to your liking. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!

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