Air Fryer Chicken Patties are a delicious and healthier alternative to traditional fried chicken patties. Crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, these patties are made from ground chicken mixed with savory spices, herbs, and breadcrumbs, all cooked to perfection in an air fryer. With minimal oil used, they deliver all the crunch and flavor you crave without the extra calories. Perfect for meal prep, family dinners, or a quick weeknight meal, air fryer chicken patties are sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This recipe for air fryer chicken patties is not only packed with flavor but is also incredibly easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights or meal prep. The air fryer cooks the patties evenly, giving them a delightful crispness without the need for deep frying. Plus, they can easily fit into a variety of dietary lifestyles, whether you’re following a low-carb, high-protein diet or simply looking for a healthier alternative to takeout. With customizable flavors and ingredients, these patties are versatile enough to satisfy everyone at the table.
Tips and Tricks
- Pre-chill the mixture: After mixing your chicken and spices, let the mixture chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This helps the patties hold their shape better during cooking.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer: Cook the patties in batches to ensure even cooking and crispiness. Overcrowding can lead to steaming rather than frying.
- Use a meat thermometer: To ensure your patties are cooked perfectly, use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Experiment with spices: Don’t hesitate to adjust spices according to your taste. Add garlic powder, onion powder, or even a pinch of chili flakes for an extra kick.
Make Ahead Tips
You can prepare the chicken mixture a day in advance. Simply combine all ingredients and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook. The patties can also be shaped and frozen before cooking. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag. They can be stored for up to three months. When ready to cook, air fry them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Recipe Variations
- Spicy Chicken Patties: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the chicken mixture for a spicy kick.
- Cheesy Chicken Patties: Mix in shredded cheese, such as cheddar or mozzarella, for a gooey surprise.
- Herbed Chicken Patties: Incorporate fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro, or basil for a fresh flavor profile.
- Vegetarian Version: Substitute ground chicken with chickpeas or black beans and add more vegetables to create delicious vegetarian patties.
How to Serve
Serve the air fryer chicken patties hot and crispy, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives. They pair beautifully with a side of crisp salad, sweet potato fries, or a tangy coleslaw. For a fun twist, serve them in whole-grain buns as sliders, topped with lettuce, tomato, and your favorite sauce.
Pairing Suggestions
For a refreshing drink, pair these chicken patties with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light lager. If you prefer non-alcoholic options, try a sparkling lemonade or an iced herbal tea. Complement your meal with a side of roasted veggies or a hearty quinoa salad, and finish with a light dessert like fruit sorbet or yogurt parfait for a balanced meal.
How to Store
Leftover chicken patties can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the cooked patties individually wrapped in foil or in freezer bags for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply place them in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-8 minutes until heated through, ensuring they regain their crispy texture.
Equipment Needed
- Air fryer: Essential for achieving that crispy exterior without the excess oil.
- Mixing bowl: For combining your ingredients.
- Measuring cups and spoons: To ensure accurate measurements.
- Optional: Parchment paper for easy cleanup in the air fryer.
Dietary Adaptations
To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour. For a dairy-free option, simply omit cheese or use a dairy-free cheese substitute. If you’re looking for a low-carb version, consider using ground turkey or a blend of ground chicken and cauliflower rice for a lighter patty.
Seasonal Adaptations
In the spring and summer, add fresh herbs like basil or dill to brighten up the flavor. In the fall and winter, consider incorporating spices like sage, thyme, or even a hint of nutmeg for a warm, comforting taste. You can also use seasonal vegetables like grated zucchini or carrots to boost nutrition and flavor.
Recipe FAQs
- Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken? Yes, ground turkey works well and provides a similar texture, though it may require slight adjustments in seasoning.
- How long do I cook frozen patties? Increase the cooking time to about 10-12 minutes at 350°F (175°C) for frozen patties.
- Can I bake these patties instead of air frying? Yes, you can bake them in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- What if I don’t have breadcrumbs? You can substitute breadcrumbs with crushed crackers or oats for a similar binding effect.
How To Make air fryer chicken patties
Air Fryer Chicken Patties
Air Fryer Chicken Patties are a delicious and healthier alternative to traditional fried chicken patties.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (or gluten-free alternative)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 egg, beaten
- Cooking spray (for air fryer)
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese (if using), chopped onion, minced garlic, oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and beaten egg.
- Mix all the ingredients until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the patties tender.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes to help firm up the mixture.
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes.
- While the air fryer is preheating, form the chicken mixture into patties, about 3-4 inches in diameter.
- Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Place the patties in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they don’t touch each other.
- Cook the patties for 10-12 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they are golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/75°C).
- Once cooked, remove the patties and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 323Total Fat 16gSaturated Fat 5gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 10gCholesterol 173mgSodium 606mgCarbohydrates 13gFiber 1gSugar 2gProtein 32g
All Chicken Recipes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
Air fryer chicken patties are a fantastic addition to any meal plan, providing a delicious, nutritious, and satisfying option for both adults and kids alike. Their versatility allows you to customize flavors to suit any palate, making them a perfect dish for family gatherings or weeknight dinners. With this recipe in your arsenal, you’ll be able to whip up a batch of golden, crispy patties in no time, bringing joy to your dining table. Enjoy experimenting with different variations and pairings as you make these delightful patties your own!