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).