These crispy chicken patties are a perfect combination of savory herbs and tender ground chicken, pan-fried to golden perfection. With just the right amount of seasoning, they bring a burst of flavor in every bite. The simplicity of this dish, combined with the quick preparation, makes it a great choice for busy weeknights or meal prep for the week. You can enjoy these patties in a variety of ways. Serve them on their own with a side salad for a light meal, or add them to a sandwich for a heartier option. The versatility of this recipe also makes it easy to customize feel free to add your favorite herbs or spices for a personal twist. Whether you’re cooking for the family or preparing lunch ahead of time, these chicken patties are sure to become a go-to favorite.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 2 tbsp olive oil for frying
Directions:
- In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, chopped onion, minced garlic, parsley, breadcrumbs, egg, salt, pepper, and paprika. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
- Shape the mixture into small patties, about 2 inches in diameter.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the chicken patties to the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
- Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce or a fresh salad on the side.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 20 minutes
Kcal: 180 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
A Flavorful and Versatile Dish for Every Occasion
Chicken patties have long been a staple in many kitchens around the world. They offer an easy, delicious, and protein-packed option for busy families and individuals who want a homemade meal without spending too much time in the kitchen. These crispy chicken patties with herbs are no exception. They blend the tenderness of ground chicken with the freshness of herbs, resulting in a dish that is both comforting and flavorful. Whether you are preparing a quick dinner for the family or meal-prepping for the week, this recipe is versatile enough to adapt to your needs.
The Charm of Chicken Patties
Chicken patties are incredibly versatile. Their simplicity makes them a blank canvas that can be enhanced with a variety of seasonings and ingredients. What sets this particular recipe apart is the use of fresh herbs, which bring an added layer of flavor to the dish. Herbs like parsley or cilantro work perfectly with ground chicken, making each bite fresh and fragrant.
Chicken patties also offer a healthier alternative to beef or pork patties, as chicken is a leaner meat. The combination of protein and moderate fats makes this dish filling and nourishing, yet not overly heavy. For those seeking a balanced meal, chicken patties fit the bill. Plus, they’re an excellent way to incorporate more protein into your diet without relying on red meat.
Another reason why chicken patties have become so popular is their ease of preparation. With minimal prep time and only a few minutes of cooking, you can have a hearty, homemade meal on the table in under 20 minutes. This makes them a lifesaver on busy weeknights when time is of the essence.
The Importance of Herbs in Cooking
Herbs play a significant role in cooking, and this recipe highlights their ability to elevate a simple dish into something special. Fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro, or even dill not only add a pop of color but also infuse the patties with fresh, vibrant flavors. Herbs bring a level of complexity to a dish that cannot be achieved with seasoning alone. Their aromatic qualities awaken the palate, making each bite more enjoyable and memorable.
In this recipe, parsley is used for its mild peppery taste and slight earthiness, which pairs perfectly with the delicate flavor of chicken. Parsley also adds a vibrant green color, making the patties visually appealing. You can swap out or combine parsley with other herbs like cilantro for a different flavor profile, or add fresh basil for a touch of sweetness.
Tips for Making the Perfect Chicken Patties
While this recipe is straightforward, there are a few tips and tricks that can help you perfect your chicken patties and ensure they come out crispy on the outside and tender on the inside every time.
- Use Fresh Ground Chicken: Fresh ground chicken will always yield better results than frozen. It has a better texture and cooks more evenly. If you can grind your own chicken at home, that’s even better, as you’ll have complete control over the fat content.
- Don’t Overwork the Mixture: When mixing the ingredients together, be sure not to overwork the mixture. Over-mixing can make the patties dense and tough. Lightly fold the ingredients until just combined to keep the patties tender and juicy.
- Chill the Mixture Before Cooking: If time allows, chill the patties for 10-15 minutes before cooking. This helps them firm up, making them easier to handle and ensuring they hold their shape while frying.
- Cook Over Medium Heat: For a perfectly crispy exterior without overcooking the inside, fry the patties over medium heat. This ensures they turn golden brown without burning and that the chicken cooks through without drying out.
- Drain Excess Oil: Once the patties are cooked, let them rest on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil. This keeps them crispy and prevents them from becoming greasy.
Serving Suggestions for Chicken Patties
One of the best things about chicken patties is their versatility. They can be served in a variety of ways, making them suitable for any meal. Here are a few serving suggestions:
- As a Main Dish: Serve the patties with a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or steamed rice for a balanced and wholesome meal. The lightness of the chicken pairs well with crisp, refreshing salads or earthy roasted root vegetables.
- Chicken Pattie Sandwiches: Turn these patties into sandwiches by placing them between buns with lettuce, tomatoes, pickles, and your favorite sauces. Add a slice of cheese for extra richness, or spread a bit of mayonnaise or mustard for added flavor.
- Chicken Patties with Dips: Serve the patties with a side of dipping sauce for a fun, finger-food-style meal. Options like garlic aioli, spicy sriracha mayo, or classic ketchup work great. You can also experiment with yogurt-based dips for a lighter option.
- Meal Prep: Chicken patties make for excellent meal-prep options. You can make a large batch ahead of time and store them in the fridge or freezer for future meals. Simply reheat them in a skillet or oven to restore their crispiness. They’re perfect for quick lunches, whether paired with a salad, stuffed into a wrap, or enjoyed on their own.
- Appetizers: For a party or gathering, make mini chicken patties to serve as appetizers. Serve them with toothpicks and a variety of dipping sauces for a crowd-pleasing snack that’s both easy and delicious.
Variations to Try
Although this recipe for crispy chicken patties with herbs is fantastic on its own, there are endless ways to tweak and customize the dish based on your preferences or what ingredients you have on hand.
- Spicy Chicken Patties: Add a bit of heat to your patties by mixing in some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños. You can also add a touch of hot sauce to the mixture for a spicier kick.
- Cheesy Chicken Patties: If you’re a fan of cheese, add shredded mozzarella or cheddar to the mixture. The cheese will melt inside the patties as they cook, creating a rich, gooey center.
- Mediterranean-Inspired Patties: Incorporate Mediterranean flavors by adding ingredients like crumbled feta cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, and oregano. Serve these patties with a side of tzatziki sauce for a refreshing accompaniment.
- Gluten-Free Version: For those following a gluten-free diet, you can easily swap out the breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour.
Conclusion:
Crispy chicken patties with herbs are a simple yet flavorful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner solution, a meal prep option, or a healthy alternative to traditional fried foods, this recipe has you covered. The herbs add a burst of freshness, while the crispy exterior provides a satisfying crunch. Best of all, this dish is highly customizable, allowing you to get creative in the kitchen with different flavors and ingredients.
The next time you’re in need of a fast, delicious meal that pleases the entire family, consider making these chicken patties. Their versatility, ease of preparation, and fantastic taste make them a go-to recipe for any occasion. Whether served as a main dish, in a sandwich, or as part of a meal prep routine, these patties are sure to become a favorite in your household.
