Homemade Chicken Patties: Your New Go-To Recipe

If you’ve ever stared into your fridge and thought, “What can I whip up with this ground chicken?” you’re not alone. That’s exactly how these amazing chicken patties were born in my kitchen—out of necessity, a dash of creativity, and the undeniable need for something quick and delicious.

These chicken patties are one of those recipes that’ll have you wondering, “Why didn’t I make this sooner?” They’re easy to prepare, super versatile, and packed with flavor. Let’s get cooking, shall we?

Why Chicken Patties Are a Must-Try

Before jumping into the recipe, let’s chat about why I’m obsessed with these chicken patties. First off, they’re ridiculously quick to make. On those busy weeknights when time feels like it’s in short supply, these patties come to the rescue.

Secondly, they’re a hit with everyone—kids, adults, and even picky eaters. Serve them as a main dish, slap them on a bun for a homemade chicken burger, or crumble them over a salad. The possibilities are endless!

And finally, they’re a great way to use up that pack of ground chicken that’s been sitting in the fridge, waiting for its moment to shine. Plus, you can customize the flavors to suit your mood. Feeling zesty? Add some lemon zest and dill. Want something bold? Toss in a dash of chili powder and cumin. These patties adapt to whatever vibe you’re feeling.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s everything you’ll need to make these chicken patties. Chances are, you already have most of these on hand:

• 1 pound ground chicken
• 1 egg (helps hold everything together)
• ¼ cup breadcrumbs (regular or panko work great)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, but adds a lovely flavor boost)
• ¼ cup finely chopped parsley
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for cooking)

Feel free to experiment with add-ins like finely chopped green onions, shredded cheese, or even a dollop of mustard for a tangy twist.

How to Make Chicken Patties

Making these patties is as easy as mixing, shaping, and cooking. Here’s how to do it step by step:

Step 1: Combine the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, toss in the ground chicken, egg, breadcrumbs, minced garlic, Parmesan cheese, parsley, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Using clean hands (or a spoon if you’re not into the messy part), mix everything until it’s well combined. Pro tip: Don’t overmix; you want everything just combined to keep the patties tender.

If you’ve ever worried about your patties falling apart, this step is key. The breadcrumbs and egg act like glue, holding all the goodness together while ensuring the patties stay moist.

Step 2: Shape the Patties

Divide the mixture into 6-8 equal portions and shape them into patties. I like mine about the size of my palm—not too thick, not too thin. If the mixture feels sticky, wet your hands slightly to make shaping easier. Trust me, this little trick makes all the difference!

Step 3: Cook the Patties

Heat a large skillet over medium heat and drizzle in the olive oil. Once hot, add the patties in a single layer (you may need to do this in batches). Cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they’re golden brown and cooked through. That’s it!

For extra crispiness, try sprinkling a tiny bit of breadcrumbs on the patties just before they hit the skillet. It creates a light crust that’s absolutely irresistible.

Serving Ideas

Now that you’ve got a batch of piping-hot chicken patties, how do you serve them? Here are a few ideas:

1. Classic Chicken Burgers

Pop these patties into a soft bun, add your favorite toppings (lettuce, tomato, pickles, and a dollop of mayo), and you’ve got a burger that’ll rival anything from a restaurant.

For a gourmet twist, try adding avocado slices, caramelized onions, or a smear of spicy aioli. The sky’s the limit!

2. Over a Salad

For a lighter option, slice up the patties and toss them over a fresh salad. Add a squeeze of lemon juice and some olive oil for a simple dressing.

If you’re feeling fancy, pair the patties with a mix of arugula, cherry tomatoes, and shaved Parmesan. It’s a restaurant-worthy meal you can whip up in minutes.

3. As a Main Dish

Pair the patties with mashed potatoes, rice, or even roasted veggies for a complete meal. My family’s favorite is serving them with a side of creamy coleslaw.

4. On-the-Go Snack

These patties are perfect for meal prep. Pack them into lunchboxes or eat them cold straight from the fridge—no judgment here!

Tips for Perfect Chicken Patties

• Don’t skip the egg and breadcrumbs. They’re the glue that holds everything together.
• Make them spicy. If you’re into a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the mixture.
• Test for seasoning. If you’re unsure about the seasoning, fry up a tiny bit of the mixture to taste before shaping all the patties.
• Freeze for later. These patties freeze beautifully. Just cook them, let them cool, and pop them into a freezer bag. They’ll keep for up to three months.

Bonus tip: To reheat frozen patties, pop them into a skillet over low heat. This helps them regain their crispy exterior without drying out.

My Favorite Chicken Patties Memory

The first time I made these chicken patties, my youngest had a friend over for dinner. I was a little nervous about how they’d go over, but within minutes, both kids were asking for seconds. That’s when I knew this recipe was a keeper.

Now, it’s one of those meals I turn to again and again. Whether it’s a busy school night or a lazy Sunday, these patties are always a hit. I’ve even had friends request the recipe after trying them at a potluck. They’re that good!

Give Them a Try!

So, there you have it—a simple, tasty recipe that’ll make dinner a breeze. If you try these chicken patties, let me know how they turn out! I’d love to hear about your favorite ways to enjoy them. Until then, happy cooking!