Homemade Chicken Patties

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Homemade chicken patties are not only quick and easy to prepare, but they also offer a healthier alternative to store-bought versions. Packed with ground chicken, herbs, and spices, these patties deliver a juicy and flavorful bite in every piece. Whether you serve them as a sandwich, with a side of veggies, or on their own, they’re guaranteed to be a hit with the whole family. Plus, they can easily be customized with your favorite herbs and spices to suit your taste. This recipe is also perfect for meal prep, making it easy to have a tasty and nutritious meal throughout the week.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground chicken
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (or use gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free option)
• 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
• 1/4 cup grated carrot (optional)
• 1 egg
• 1 tbsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, grated carrot (if using), egg, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until well combined.
2. Divide the mixture into equal portions and shape them into patties, about 1/2-inch thick.
3. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the patties to the pan, cooking them in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding.
4. Cook the patties for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. You can check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer; it should read 165°F.
5. Remove the patties from the skillet and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes approximately 4 servings, depending on the size of your patties.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10-15 minutes
• Total Time: 20-25 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Chicken Patties: Add some cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the mixture for a little heat.
• Herb Chicken Patties: Try mixing in fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro, or basil for an extra burst of flavor.
• Cheese Chicken Patties: Add shredded cheese to the mixture for a cheesy twist.
• Vegetable-packed Patties: Boost the veggie content by adding spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers to the patty mixture.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover chicken patties in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezing: You can also freeze the patties for later use. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll last up to 3 months in the freezer.
• Reheating: Reheat the patties in a skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes, or place them in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes until heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?

Yes, ground turkey can be substituted for chicken in this recipe for a slightly different flavor, but the texture and cooking method remain the same.

2. Can I make these patties gluten-free?

Yes! Simply swap out regular breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs or use a gluten-free binder like almond flour or oat flour.

3. How can I make these patties juicier?

For juicier patties, add a tablespoon of olive oil or a small amount of grated zucchini to the mixture. This will help retain moisture during cooking.

4. Can I bake the chicken patties instead of frying them?

Yes, you can bake the patties at 375°F for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they’re golden brown and cooked through.

5. What can I serve these chicken patties with?

These patties are versatile and can be served with a side of roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. You can also make a sandwich with a bun and your favorite toppings.

6. Can I add extra flavor to the patties?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with spices like cumin, turmeric, or Italian seasoning to customize the flavor profile.

7. How can I prevent the patties from falling apart?

Make sure to use an egg as a binder and handle the patties gently when shaping them. Chilling the patties in the fridge for 15-20 minutes before cooking can also help them hold together better.

8. How do I know when the patties are fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the patties. They are done when they reach 165°F.

9. Can I freeze the uncooked patties?

Yes, you can freeze the uncooked patties. Place them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze them until firm before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag or container.

10. Can I cook the patties on the grill?

Yes, you can cook these patties on the grill. Preheat the grill to medium heat and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the patties are golden brown and fully cooked.

Conclusion

Homemade chicken patties are an easy and delicious meal that can be tailored to your tastes. Whether you’re making them for dinner tonight or prepping them in advance for the week, these patties offer a healthy, flavorful alternative to store-bought options. With simple ingredients and versatile variations, they’re sure to become a family favorite!