If you’re craving lean but juicy meat for burger night, these crispy homemade Chicken Patties are a delicious pick!
Whether you call them chicken patties or burgers, the result is the same: juicy, tender meat at home between a bun or atop a salad, if you’re counting carbs.
Like all of you, I’m all about saving time and money these days. For one thing, dining out is expensive. Fast food isn’t any better with all their unwanted calories, sodium, and fillers (and who knows what else). Making delicious, nutritious meals at home, especially on a budget, provides a win-win situation.
Overall, homemade chicken patties are a healthier alternative to traditional burgers, as they are lower in fat and calories. They’re also easy to modify. Personally, I prefer using smoked paprika, as it adds a more robust flavor than your standard paprika. Additionally, you can substitute gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour if you’re wheat-sensitive.
Since these patties are so simple to make, it’s not hard to take them up a notch. For example, mix in a quarter cup of shredded cheese before cooking. Or go the cheeseburger route, and add a slice of your favorite cheese on top during the last minute in the pan.
Using leftover chicken in these patties
While this recipe is written for raw ground chicken, you can also make a version using leftover cooked chicken, like shredded rotisserie or chopped grilled breast. Just keep in mind that the texture, cook time, and even the flavor may shift a bit. Here’s what to know if you’re going that route.
There are a few key differences between using fresh ground and cooked chicken. The first, and most important, is food safety. If you’re starting with raw chicken, cook the patties until a meat or poultry thermometer registers 165°F in the center. You won’t have the same issue when using already-cooked chicken, although you still want to cook your patties thoroughly, as the mixture contains an egg.
Another difference is that using leftover cooked chicken can change the taste of the patties. If you use chicken with Asian, Mexican, Indian, or Italian flavors, you may want to omit the Dijon mustard, as it may not complement the change in flavor profile. Finally, the texture of your patties will also have a slightly different consistency. Shredded or chopped chicken won’t bind quite as well as ground chicken, but the patties will still hold together.
How do I store leftovers?
Leftover chicken patties can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days—just let them cool to room temperature first. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months. Place the patties in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, and then transfer them to a freezer bag or container. Thaw them overnight in the fridge or defrost them slowly in the microwave.
Serving suggestions
The most obvious way to enjoy these delectable chicken patties is to stick them between a bun and top them with some lettuce leaves, tomato slices, and pickles. I also highly recommend trying Muffuletta Spread, this Dijonnaise Recipe, or Keto Mayonnaise to smear on the bun. For a unique and flavorful change of pace, serve the patties with Butternut Squash Mac And Cheese, a Baked Potato Bar, Mushroom Casserole, or Mediterranean Salad.
Ingredients
- 1 pound lean ground chicken
- 1 small onion finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 1 large egg lightly beaten
- 1/4 cup plain breadcrumbs
- 2 teaspoons fresh parsley chopped
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, chopped onion, minced garlic, beaten egg, breadcrumbs, parsley, Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, and paprika. Mix gently until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Split the mixture into six equal portions. Shape each portion into a patty approximately 3/4-inch thick. Handle them carefully to maintain tenderness.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the patties and cook for 5 to 6 minutes on each side until golden brown and the internal temperature registers at 165°F.
- Transfer the patties to a plate and serve warm with your favorite healthy sides or a fresh salad.
Nutrition Info:
Nutrition information are estimates only and may vary based on the specific brands, ingredients, and portion sizes you use. This data is provided for informational purposes only.
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