If you are looking for a quick, flavorful, and healthier way to enjoy a homemade dinner, the Air Fryer Chicken Patties Recipe is an absolute game changer. Juicy ground chicken blended with aromatic spices and cooked to perfection in an air fryer delivers that crispy-on-the-outside, tender-on-the-inside texture we all love. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or whenever you want a satisfying meal without the extra oil and mess of frying. Best of all, it’s easy enough for cooks of any skill level and endlessly adaptable to your taste buds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor and ensuring the perfect texture for these chicken patties. From the protein-packed ground chicken to the aromatic seasonings and the binding power of the egg and breadcrumbs, everything works harmoniously to make these patties irresistibly tasty.
- Ground chicken (1 pound): The star ingredient providing lean protein and a mild flavor that soaks up spices beautifully.
- Egg (1): Acts as a binder, keeping the patties together for easy flipping and cooking.
- Breadcrumbs (¼ cup): Adds structure and a light, tender bite to the patties.
- Salt (½ teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors to avoid any blandness.
- Garlic powder (½ teaspoon): Brings a subtle but savory depth to the chicken mixture.
- Onion powder (½ teaspoon): Complements the garlic with a gentle sweetness and added complexity.
- Paprika (½ teaspoon): Adds a smoky warmth and a lovely reddish hue to the patties.
- Ground black pepper (¼ teaspoon): Lends a touch of mild heat and flavor balance.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Helps with browning and keeps the patties juicy during air frying.
How to Make Air Fryer Chicken Patties Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Mixture
Start by gathering all your ingredients in one large bowl. Combine the ground chicken, egg, breadcrumbs, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and black pepper. Use clean hands or a spatula to mix everything thoroughly until all seasonings and components are evenly distributed. This ensures every bite bursts with flavor and texture.
Step 2: Form Patties
Divide the mixture into four equal portions, about 133 grams each. Shape each portion into a round patty roughly half an inch thick. Keeping the patties slightly thick guarantees juicy insides once cooked, and consistent size lets them cook evenly in the air fryer.
Step 3: Prepare the Air Fryer
Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil spray to prevent sticking. Arrange the patties in a single layer—it’s okay if their edges touch slightly, but avoid stacking. Then, brush the tops of the patties with a little olive oil to encourage browning and keep them from drying out.
Step 4: Cook Patties
Set your air fryer to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Cook the patties for 7 minutes, then carefully flip them over using a spatula. Continue cooking for another 3 to 5 minutes until they reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit. This cooking method results in perfectly crisp exteriors while locking in juicy tenderness inside.
How to Serve Air Fryer Chicken Patties Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes can really elevate your chicken patties. Try a sprinkle of chopped parsley or cilantro for a pop of color and fresh flavor. A dollop of tangy Greek yogurt or your favorite sauce, like honey mustard or chipotle mayo, adds delicious creaminess that complements the spices beautifully.
Side Dishes
These patties pair wonderfully with a variety of sides. Crisp garden salads balance the richness, while roasted vegetables provide earthy flavors and hearty textures. For something more indulgent, serve with crispy sweet potato fries or garlic mashed potatoes to make it feel like a comforting feast.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn these chicken patties into sliders with mini buns, fresh lettuce, tomato slices, and pickles for a fun party appetizer. You can also crumble the cooked patties over a bed of mixed greens to create a protein-packed salad or stuff them inside pita pockets along with crunchy slaw for a handheld meal that’s perfect on the go.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once your chicken patties have cooled completely, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making them perfect for quick lunches or dinner leftovers that can be reheated and enjoyed without sacrificing flavor or texture.
Freezing
To freeze, place uncooked patties on a parchment-lined tray and freeze until solid, about 1 to 2 hours. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. These frozen patties can be cooked straight from the freezer; just add a few extra minutes to the air fryer cooking time.
Reheating
Reheat leftover cooked patties in the air fryer at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 3 to 5 minutes to restore their crispiness. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep that perfect texture—air frying brings them back to life beautifully every time.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey works just as well in this Air Fryer Chicken Patties Recipe and will give a slightly different flavor profile while keeping the patties tender and juicy.
What if I don’t have breadcrumbs?
No worries! You can substitute breadcrumbs with crushed crackers, oats, or even almond flour for a gluten-free option—all provide the necessary binding and texture.
How do I know when the patties are done?
The best way is to use an instant-read thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure they are cooked safely without drying out.
Can I add cheese to the patties?
Yes, mixing in shredded cheese like mozzarella or cheddar can add a delightful melty surprise inside your patties. Just fold it into the mixture before forming the patties.
Is it necessary to flip the patties during cooking?
Flipping halfway through helps achieve even browning and crispiness on both sides, which is key to the perfect texture in this Air Fryer Chicken Patties Recipe.
Final Thoughts
This Air Fryer Chicken Patties Recipe is a wonderful way to enjoy a wholesome, tasty meal with minimal effort and maximum satisfaction. Whether you are cooking for family, meal prepping for the week, or looking for a healthier comfort food fix, these patties deliver every time. I hope you give this recipe a try and discover just how delicious home-cooked chicken can be when made with love and cooked just right. Happy cooking!
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Air Fryer Chicken Patties Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
These Air Fryer Chicken Patties are a quick, healthy, and delicious meal option perfect for busy weeknights. Made with ground chicken and seasoned with garlic, onion, and paprika, they cook to juicy perfection in just 12 minutes using an air fryer, resulting in a crispy exterior without the need for deep frying.
Ingredients
Chicken Patty Ingredients
- 1 pound ground chicken (450g)
- 1 egg
- ¼ cup breadcrumbs (30g)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (plus spray for air fryer basket)
Instructions
- Prepare the mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, egg, breadcrumbs, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and ground black pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated, creating a cohesive mixture.
- Form patties: Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions, each about 133 grams. Shape each portion into a round patty approximately ½-inch thick for even cooking.
- Prepare air fryer: Lightly spray the basket of the air fryer with olive oil spray to prevent sticking. Arrange the patties in a single layer inside the basket, allowing edges to touch slightly if needed. Brush the tops of each patty with olive oil to promote browning.
- Cook patties: Air fry the patties at 400°F (204°C) for 7 minutes. Carefully flip each patty and continue cooking for another 3 to 5 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) ensuring they are fully cooked and juicy.
Notes
- You can substitute breadcrumbs with gluten-free crumbs to make the patties gluten-free.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the patties reach a safe internal temperature of 165°F.
- Brush the patties with olive oil after flipping for an extra crispy exterior.
- Serve with a fresh salad or on a bun with your favorite toppings for a quick meal.
- If you don’t have an air fryer, these patties can also be pan-fried in a skillet over medium heat, about 5 minutes per side.
- Prep Time: 8 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
