Golden Crispy Chicken Patties

Craving a delightful chicken dish that’s both incredibly flavorful and wonderfully easy to prepare? Look no further than these **Crispy Chicken Patties**! They represent the perfect harmony of tender, seasoned chicken and melty cheese, expertly formed into mouthwatering burgers with an irresistible crunch. Golden and crispy on the outside, yet supremely juicy and tender within, these patties are a true family favorite. Pile them high with your preferred toppings for an effortless weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch that everyone will adore.

If you love versatile chicken recipes, be sure to also try our Ground Chicken Kofta Kabobs or the explosively flavorful Bang Bang Chicken. Both are guaranteed crowd-pleasers and great options for kid-friendly meals.

Golden brown crispy chicken patties, ready to be served.

These homemade breaded chicken patties are not only incredibly delicious but also a fantastic make-ahead meal solution! We frequently prepare a double batch, allowing us to freeze them and enjoy another hassle-free, flavorful dinner down the line. Whether you’re planning for a busy week or simply want a quick and easy option always on hand, these freezer-friendly patties are your culinary secret weapon.

Why You’ll Love These Crispy Chicken Patties

Get ready to add a new staple to your recipe rotation! These crispy chicken patties are designed to make your life easier and your taste buds happier. Here’s why they’re destined to become a household favorite:

Dinner in Under 30 Minutes: From prep to plate, you can have a gourmet-tasting meal ready in less than half an hour. Perfect for those busy weeknights when time is of the essence.
No More Boring Chicken Dinners: Say goodbye to dry, uninspired chicken. These patties are bursting with flavor, offering a dynamic and exciting alternative to your usual chicken dishes. Even the pickiest eaters, especially kids, adore them!
Highly Versatile and Customizable: This recipe is a blank canvas for your culinary creativity. Easily adapt the seasonings to suit your family’s preferences or explore new flavor profiles every time you make them.
Effortless Make-Ahead Meal: Prepare a batch (or two!) in advance and store them in the freezer. They’re perfect for meal prepping and ensure a wholesome, homemade option is always just a quick cook away.
Flexible Cooking Methods: Achieve perfect crispness whether you prefer to pan-fry them on the stovetop for a classic golden crust or use your air fryer for a lighter, healthier option. Both methods yield fantastic results, allowing you to choose what works best for your kitchen and lifestyle.

Imagine this: fresh or thawed chicken breasts are in your refrigerator, and you’re pondering what to conjure up for dinner. These patties are the answer! They are so flavorful and fun, instantly transforming simple chicken into an exciting meal. Kids especially love the crispy edges and the tender, juicy inside – they’re like elevated chicken nuggets, but with an amazing burst of flavor in every single bite. This recipe offers a delicious solution to mealtime dilemmas, providing a satisfying and enjoyable experience for everyone at the table.

Ingredients for the Perfect Chicken Patties

Crafting these delectable chicken patties requires a thoughtful selection of fresh ingredients and pantry staples. Each component plays a crucial role in building the robust flavor and achieving that desirable crispy-on-the-outside, juicy-on-the-inside texture. Let’s explore the simple ingredients that come together to create this culinary delight:

Simple ingredients for a flavorful and easy chicken patty recipe.

Ingredient Notes and Substitutions

Boneless Chicken Breast: The star of our recipe. For the best texture, use fresh boneless chicken breasts. You can also opt for chicken thighs for a slightly richer flavor and more tender result, or even pre-ground chicken for a convenient shortcut. If using frozen chicken, ensure it’s fully thawed and patted dry to prevent excess moisture.
Regular Breadcrumbs: These are essential for binding the chicken mixture together, giving the patties structure and a hint of classic flavor.
Panko Breadcrumbs: The secret weapon for achieving an exceptional, extra-crispy exterior. Panko flakes are larger and airier than regular breadcrumbs, absorbing less oil and yielding a superior crunch. While you can use regular breadcrumbs for the outer coating, Panko offers an unparalleled crispness.
Onion: A small, finely minced yellow onion adds a foundational layer of aromatic flavor and helps keep the patties moist. Avoid using too much, as it can make the mixture watery.
Eggs: Crucial for the breading process. The lightly beaten eggs act as a binder, helping the flour and breadcrumbs adhere to the chicken patties, ensuring a golden, even crust.
All-Purpose Flour: Used in the dredging process, flour provides the first layer for the egg wash to cling to, creating a solid base for the Panko coating. Seasoning the flour with garlic powder, salt, and pepper boosts the overall flavor.
Mozzarella Cheese: This creamy, mild cheese melts beautifully within the patties, adding a delightful cheesy flavor and contributing to their moist, tender interior. It also acts as an additional binder. Feel free to experiment with other cheeses like cheddar or Parmesan for different flavor profiles.
Garlic: We use minced fresh garlic in the chicken mixture for a pungent, fresh kick, and garlic powder in the flour coating for an additional subtle garlic essence that permeates the crispy crust.
Fresh Parsley: Finely chopped fresh parsley introduces a bright, herbaceous note and a pop of vibrant color, enhancing both the taste and visual appeal of the patties.
Ground Cardamom: Just a touch of ground cardamom adds a unique, warm, and subtly aromatic spice that elevates the flavor of the chicken mixture, setting these patties apart from standard recipes. Don’t skip it for that distinctive touch!
Salt and Pepper: Fundamental seasonings to bring out and balance all the delicious flavors of the ingredients. Adjust to your personal taste.
Cayenne Pepper (Optional): For those who appreciate a little heat, a pinch of cayenne pepper can add a subtle spicy kick.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Crispy Chicken Patties

Creating these crispy chicken patties is a straightforward process that yields incredibly rewarding results. Follow these detailed steps to achieve perfectly golden and juicy patties every time. The full, printable recipe card with exact measurements is available below.

Preparing the chicken mixture for the patties.

Prep & Mix the Chicken Mixture

Prepare the Chicken: Begin by patting your boneless chicken breasts thoroughly dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for achieving the right texture and preventing a watery mixture. Once dry, cut the chicken into uniform cubes.
Process the Chicken: Transfer the chicken cubes to your food processor. Pulse the chicken until it’s finely ground, resembling ground chicken. Be careful not to over-process, as this can create a paste-like texture.
Combine Ingredients: Place the freshly ground chicken into a large mixing bowl. Add the minced onion, crushed garlic, chopped fresh parsley, regular breadcrumbs, shredded mozzarella cheese, salt, black pepper, and ground cardamom (and cayenne pepper, if using).
Mix Thoroughly: Using your hands or a sturdy spoon, gently but thoroughly mix all the ingredients until they are well combined. Avoid overmixing, as this can make the patties tough. The mixture should be cohesive and easy to form.

Set Up Your Breading Station

Prepare Baking Sheet: Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent the formed patties from sticking and make transfer easier.
Egg Wash: In one shallow bowl, lightly beat the eggs. Season them with a dash of salt and pepper to add flavor to the egg wash.
Flour Mixture: In a second shallow bowl, combine the all-purpose flour with garlic powder and a pinch of salt and pepper. Whisk these ingredients together until well distributed.
Panko Breadcrumbs: In a third shallow bowl, spread out the Panko breadcrumbs evenly. This creates your efficient three-station breading assembly line.

Forming and breading the chicken patties for frying.

Forming & Breading the Patties

Shape the Patties: Take about ¼ cup of the chicken mixture (or your desired size for burgers or sliders). Using the palms of your hands, gently press and shape the mixture into a uniform disc, about ½ to ¾ inch thick. Ensure the edges are smooth to prevent them from breaking apart during cooking.
Dredge in Flour: Carefully dip each formed patty into the bowl with the seasoned flour, ensuring it’s fully coated. Lightly tap off any excess flour.
Dip in Egg: Next, transfer the flour-coated patty into the egg wash, allowing the excess egg to drip off.
Coat in Panko: Finally, place the egg-coated patty into the bowl with the Panko breadcrumbs. Press gently to ensure the Panko adheres well to all sides, creating a thick, even crust.
Repeat & Arrange: Place the breaded chicken patties onto the prepared baking sheet. Continue this process with the remaining chicken mixture, leaving a little space between each patty. At this point, you can cook them immediately or proceed to the make-ahead/freezing steps.

Cooking the Patties

Stovetop Frying Instructions

Heat the Oil: In a large skillet or frying pan, heat about ½ inch of vegetable oil (or other high-smoke-point oil) over medium-high heat. The oil should be shimmering but not smoking. You can test if it’s ready by dropping a tiny pinch of Panko; it should sizzle immediately.
Fry the Patties: Carefully place the breaded chicken patties into the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Work in batches if necessary to maintain consistent oil temperature. Fry for 4-6 minutes on each side, or until they are beautifully golden brown and crispy, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when measured with a meat thermometer.
Drain: Transfer the cooked patties to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.

Air Fryer Instructions (For a Healthier Option)

Tasty chicken patties can be easily made in an air fryer for a quick weeknight meal.

Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
Arrange Patties: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Place the breaded patties in a single layer in the basket, ensuring they are not touching. For an extra golden and crispy result, lightly spray the tops of the patties with cooking spray.
Air Fry: Air fry for 5 minutes on one side, then flip the patties and air fry for another 5-7 minutes, or until they are golden brown, cooked through, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Cooking times may vary depending on your air fryer model and patty thickness.

Oven Baking Instructions (Optional)

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Prepare Baking Sheet: Place the breaded patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a wire rack set over a baking sheet (for extra crispness). Lightly spray the tops of the patties with cooking spray.
Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Essential Tools for Making Chicken Patties

While you don’t need a professional kitchen setup, having these basic tools will make the preparation of your crispy chicken patties significantly easier and more enjoyable:

Food Processor: Indispensable for quickly and evenly grinding your chicken breasts into a fine, workable consistency. If you’re using pre-ground chicken, a large mixing bowl will suffice.
Large Mixing Bowl: Essential for combining all the chicken mixture ingredients thoroughly and efficiently.
Three Shallow Bowls or Dishes: Crucial for setting up your breading station (one for flour, one for eggs, one for Panko) to ensure a smooth and organized coating process.
Large Skillet or Air Fryer: Your chosen cooking vessel. A heavy-bottomed skillet is ideal for stovetop frying, providing even heat distribution. An air fryer offers a healthier, convenient alternative for achieving that perfect crisp without deep frying.
Baking Sheet (with parchment paper): Useful for holding the formed and breaded patties before cooking, and essential for freezing make-ahead batches.
Meat Thermometer: Highly recommended to ensure the chicken patties are cooked to a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), guaranteeing food safety and perfect doneness.

Expert Tips for Perfect Chicken Patties

Achieving perfectly crispy and juicy chicken patties is simple with a few expert insights. Here are some notes and tips to ensure your homemade patties turn out flawless every time:

Choosing Your Chicken: To save precious time, don’t hesitate to use store-bought ground chicken. However, for maximum flavor and control over texture, grinding fresh boneless chicken breasts (or even chicken thighs for extra moisture) in a food processor is highly recommended. Both breasts and thighs work wonderfully in this recipe, so use what you have or prefer, or even a combination for a balanced flavor.
The Secret to Crispiness – Breadcrumbs: We use two types of breadcrumbs for a reason! Regular breadcrumbs are blended into the chicken mixture to act as a binder, holding the patties together. Panko breadcrumbs, with their larger, flaky texture, are reserved for the outer coating. This dual-breadcrumb approach ensures the patties bind well internally while delivering an unparalleled, superior crispness on the exterior. While you can use regular breadcrumbs for the outer coating, the texture won’t be quite as crunchy.
Seasoning is Key: Don’t be shy about experimenting with spices! The recipe as written provides a delicious foundation, but it’s a versatile base. Once you’ve tried it the first time, feel free to venture out and add your own favorite spices or a blend of choice, like Italian seasoning, a touch of smoked paprika, or a hint of cumin for a different profile.
Uniform Patty Size: Aim to make your patties as uniform in size and thickness as possible. This ensures they cook evenly and prevents some from being undercooked while others are overcooked.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan/Air Fryer: When cooking, whether frying or air frying, work in batches. Overcrowding lowers the cooking temperature and can lead to soggy rather than crispy patties. Give them space to breathe and brown beautifully.
Internal Temperature Check: Always use a meat thermometer to confirm the patties have reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This guarantees they are safely cooked through while remaining juicy.

Make Ahead and Freezing Instructions

These crispy chicken patties are perfectly suited for meal prepping, allowing you to enjoy homemade convenience on demand. Making them ahead of time is incredibly easy, saving you valuable time on busy days:

Freezing Uncooked Patties: After shaping and coating the chicken patties with Panko, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Place the baking sheet in the freezer until the patties are completely solid, typically 1-2 hours. Once frozen solid, transfer them to an airtight freezer-safe container or a heavy-duty freezer bag. Label with the date. They will stay fresh and delicious for 4-6 months. When ready to cook, you can fry or air fry them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time until they reach the proper internal temperature.
Freezing Cooked Patties: If you have leftover cooked patties or prefer to freeze them after cooking, allow them to cool completely. Then, arrange them in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer to an airtight freezer-safe container or bag. Reheat as directed below.

Adaptable Recipe: Make It Your Own!

One of the best qualities of these crispy chicken patties is their incredible adaptability. This is a fantastic base recipe for busy weeknights, allowing you to easily change up the flavors each time you serve it. Here are some ideas to inspire your culinary creativity:

Flavor Boosters: Mix in some grated Parmesan cheese into the chicken mixture for an extra savory depth. For a different flavor profile, add a teaspoon of Italian seasoning to the breadcrumbs or incorporate your favorite spices directly into the chicken mixture, such as smoked paprika, onion powder, or a touch of chili powder.
Spice It Up: If you love a little heat, increase the amount of cayenne pepper in the chicken mixture or add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Herb Variations: Swap out parsley for other fresh herbs like cilantro, dill, or chives, depending on the flavor direction you’re aiming for.
Cheesy Alternatives: While mozzarella is classic, feel free to experiment with other cheeses. Shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even crumbled feta can add distinct flavors.
Low-Carb Option: For a delicious low-carb dinner, skip the bun and transform these crispy chicken burgers into a refreshing lettuce wrap. Pair them with a zesty yogurt sauce and some fresh veggies.
Mini Patties/Sliders: Form smaller patties to create delightful mini sliders perfect for appetizers, party food, or kid-sized portions.

Serving Suggestions for Crispy Chicken Patties

These versatile chicken patties can be the star of many different meals. Their crispy texture and juicy interior make them a delightful addition to various dishes and an excellent base for custom creations. Here are some inspired ways to serve them:

Classic Chicken Burgers: The most popular way to enjoy these patties! Place them in soft burger buns or brioche buns. Load them up with fresh lettuce, sliced tomatoes, crisp red onions, pickles, and your favorite burger sauce (ketchup, mustard, mayo, or a special aioli).
Versatile Side Dishes: These patties pair wonderfully with almost any side dish. Consider serving them alongside creamy pasta, fluffy rice pilaf, a fresh garden salad, roasted vegetables, classic French fries, sweet potato fries, or a vibrant coleslaw.
Dipping Sauce Extravaganza: The crispiness of these patties makes them perfect for dipping! Offer a selection of sauces for an interactive meal.
- For a Spicy Kick: Serve with our homemade Szechuan Sauce, the creamy and zesty Bang Bang Sauce, or a fiery Sriracha Mayo.
- Classic Favorites: Honey mustard, tangy BBQ sauce, or a simple ranch dressing are always popular choices.
- Fresh & Herby: A cooling Greek yogurt-based sauce with dill and cucumber, or a bright chimichurri, can provide a refreshing contrast.
Lettuce Wraps: For a lighter, low-carb meal, serve the patties in large lettuce cups with shredded carrots, cucumber, and a drizzle of Asian-inspired sauce.
Main Course with Gravy: In a more traditional dinner setting, serve the patties with a creamy mushroom gravy and mashed potatoes.
Sandwiches & Wraps: Beyond burger buns, these patties are fantastic in pita bread, tortillas, or as a hearty sandwich filling on toasted bread with a spread of your choice.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Proper storage and reheating are key to enjoying these delicious chicken patties long after they’re first made, ensuring they retain their flavor and signature crispness.

Refrigerate: Any leftover cooked chicken patties should be placed in an airtight container and refrigerated promptly. They will stay fresh and delicious for up to 3-4 days. Allow them to cool completely before storing to prevent condensation, which can make them soggy.

Freeze: As mentioned in the “Make Ahead” section, these patties are fantastic for freezing, both cooked and uncooked.

Uncooked: Freeze raw, breaded patties on a parchment-lined baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. Cook from frozen, adjusting cooking time.
Cooked: Allow cooked patties to cool completely. Freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. They are best enjoyed within 2-3 months.

Reheat: To bring your chicken patties back to their crispy glory, avoid the microwave if possible, as it can make them soft.

Oven: Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Place the patties on a baking sheet and heat for 10-15 minutes, or until thoroughly warmed through and the exterior has crisped up.
Air Fryer: Reheat in a preheated air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-8 minutes, or until hot and crispy. This is often the best method for restoring crunch.
Stovetop: Lightly oil a skillet and heat over medium-low heat. Reheat patties for a few minutes on each side until heated through and crisp.

A perfectly assembled crispy chicken patty sandwich.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Here are answers to some common questions about making and enjoying crispy chicken patties:

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but it’s crucial to thaw them completely in the refrigerator before processing. Make sure to pat them very dry with paper towels after thawing to remove excess moisture, which can make the patty mixture too wet and harder to bind.
What kind of oil is best for frying?
For stovetop frying, use an oil with a high smoke point, such as vegetable oil, canola oil, sunflower oil, or peanut oil. These oils can withstand the higher temperatures needed for frying without burning and imparting off-flavors.
How do I prevent the patties from falling apart during cooking?
Several factors help: ensure your chicken mixture is well combined but not overmixed, use regular breadcrumbs as a binder within the patty, and make sure the exterior flour-egg-Panko coating is complete and evenly applied. Also, don’t overcrowd the pan or air fryer, as this can lower the temperature and lead to patties absorbing too much oil or cooking unevenly.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes, you can adapt this recipe to be gluten-free. Simply substitute the regular breadcrumbs and Panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives. For the flour dredge, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Ensure all other ingredients (like seasonings) are also certified gluten-free.
What can I serve with these patties besides burger buns?
These patties are incredibly versatile! They are delicious alongside a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, rice pilaf, or even pasta. For a lighter option, serve them in lettuce wraps. They also make excellent appetizers when shaped into mini sliders.
How do I get the patties extra crispy in the air fryer?
To maximize crispness in the air fryer, ensure the patties are lightly sprayed with cooking oil before air frying. Don’t overcrowd the basket, allowing hot air to circulate freely around each patty. Flipping them halfway through cooking also helps ensure even browning and crispness.

Related Chicken Recipes You Might Love

If you’re a fan of delicious and versatile chicken dishes, here are a few other recipes from our collection that you’re sure to enjoy:

For an elegant yet easy dinner, try our Chicken Kofta Kebabs. They’re packed with flavor and make a sophisticated meal.
Looking for a healthy and comforting option? Our Turkey Meatloaf is made with lean ground turkey and features a secret ingredient for ultimate moistness.
Explore another Middle Eastern favorite with this easy Kofta Kebab Recipe, perfect for grilling or baking.
For a healthier and quicker alternative to deep-fried chicken, these Air Fryer Chicken Tenders are soaked in a flavorful mixture and coated with buttery Panko breadcrumbs, guaranteed to be kid and adult approved.
Beyond chicken, these Potato Croquettes are crispy, golden-brown savory bites that are irresistibly delicious and perfect as an appetizer or side dish.
Our Grilled Nuggets offer a healthier and tastier alternative to store-bought options. Tender, perfectly marinated chicken pieces dipped in your favorite sauce provide a fun and satisfying meal the whole family will enjoy.

This crispy chicken patty recipe is truly one of my favorite ways to utilize lean ground chicken, especially when it’s on sale. I’d love to hear from you in the comments below: what else do you like to make with ground chicken?

If you love this recipe, please leave a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating!

A top view of chicken patties on a white dish with lemon wedges.

Crispy Chicken Patties

This chicken patty recipe is a family favorite – a delicious, easy meal that everyone will enjoy. It’s freezer and kid-friendly, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.

4.89 from 9 votes

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Course:
dinner, Main Course

Cuisine:
American, Middle East

Diet:
Halal

Prep Time:

15

Cook Time:

10

Total Time:

25

Servings:

12 servings

Calories:

216kcal

Author:

Amira

Equipment

food processor
4 various sized bowls
frying pan or air fryer

Ingredients

2 lbs chicken breast (about 3 large)
1 small onion (minced)
2 cloves garlic (crushed)
1 cup parsley (chopped)
1 ½ cup breadcrumbs (regular)
¾ tsp salt (or to taste)
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp cardamom (ground)
¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)

For the dipping and frying:

½ cup flour (with a dash of salt and pepper)
2 cups panko breadcrumbs
¼ tsp garlic powder
2 eggs (with a dash of salt and pepper)
oil for frying

Instructions

Prep

Pat dry chicken breast with a paper towel then cut into cubes and process in your food processor.
Place ground chicken in a bowl then add the rest of the ingredients and mix well.
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Lightly beat eggs with salt and pepper in one shallow dish.
Mix flour with garlic powder and a dash of salt and pepper in another bowl.
Place panko breadcrumbs in another bowl.

Dipping

Take about ¼ cup of the mixture and shape with the palms of your hands into a disc.
Dip into the flour then eggs then cover with breadcrumbs.
Place chicken patties on a baking sheet and continue with the rest of the mixture.

Fry

Heat ½ inch of oil in a frying pan on medium heat then fry the patties on each side until golden brown and cooked through to 165°F (74°C).

Air frying instructions:

Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and air fry patties for 5 minutes each side, or until cooked through to 165°F (74°C).

Notes

To cut down on prep time, feel free to use pre-ground chicken.
This recipe is adaptable for both chicken breasts and chicken thighs. You can use either or a combination for varied flavor and texture.
For optimal crispiness, we recommend using Panko breadcrumbs for the outer coating. While regular breadcrumbs can be used, the result may be less crisp.
The spice blend in this recipe provides a fantastic base, but don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite spices after trying the original version.

To Store:

Place cooked chicken patties in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.

Make Ahead:

After shaping and coating the chicken patties, arrange them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until hard. Once solid, transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag and freeze. They are excellent for 4-6 months.

Nutrition

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