When it comes to quick, wholesome, and incredibly satisfying meals, few dishes match the universal appeal of Homemade Chicken Patties. Whether you’re preparing lunch for your kids, packing weekday meals, or serving a crowd at a casual dinner party, these golden-brown patties never fail to impress. Juicy on the inside, perfectly crispy on the outside, and packed with flavor — chicken patties are more than just a weeknight solution; they’re a meal prep hero, a kid-approved favorite, and a versatile dish that suits almost every dietary preference.
In this ultimate guide, you’ll learn everything you need to know about chicken patties — from ingredients and step-by-step instructions to pro tips, variations, and serving ideas. By the end, you’ll have a restaurant-worthy recipe in your back pocket and dozens of ways to customize it to your lifestyle.
✅ Why You’ll Love This Chicken Patty Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes from start to finish
- Healthy and Wholesome: Uses real, clean ingredients you likely already have
- Perfect for All Ages: Mild, juicy, and flavorful – even picky eaters love them
- Freezer-Friendly: Make in bulk and freeze for later use
- Versatile: Serve as a main dish, snack, sandwich filler, or party appetizer
- Customizable: Works for gluten-free, low-carb, dairy-free, or high-protein diets
🛒 Ingredients You’ll Need
These chicken patties are made using a handful of pantry staples. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need and why each ingredient matters.
Core Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken breast
A great use for leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken. Provides lean protein and structure. - 1/2 cup almond flour
Keeps the patties gluten-free and adds a slightly nutty flavor. You can substitute with oat flour or breadcrumbs. - 1 large egg
Acts as a binder to hold everything together. - 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
Adds moisture and helps keep the patties juicy inside. - 2 green onions, finely chopped
Brings a fresh, mild onion flavor without overpowering the dish. - 1 teaspoon fresh parsley and 1 teaspoon fresh dill
These herbs elevate the flavor, adding brightness and complexity. - Salt and black pepper to taste
Essential for balancing and enhancing all other flavors. - 2 tablespoons butter (or olive oil for frying)
Helps develop that perfect golden crust on the outside.
🥣 Optional Add-ins and Substitutions
To make this recipe your own, here are some tried-and-tested variations:
| Ingredient | Substitute / Add-on |
|---|---|
| Almond flour | Oat flour, gluten-free breadcrumbs, crushed crackers |
| Mayonnaise | Greek yogurt, sour cream, mashed avocado |
| Fresh herbs | Try basil, chives, or cilantro |
| Add-ins | Shredded cheese, cooked spinach, grated carrots, chili flakes |
🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
Let’s break the recipe down into detailed steps to ensure your chicken patties turn out perfect every single time.
Step 1: Mix the Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine:
- Shredded chicken
- Almond flour
- Mayonnaise
- Egg
- Chopped green onions
- Dill and parsley
- Salt and pepper
Use a spatula or your hands to mix thoroughly until a sticky mixture forms.
Tip: If the mixture feels too wet, add a spoonful of almond flour. If it feels too dry, add a touch of mayo or an extra egg yolk.
Step 2: Shape into Patties
Divide the mixture into 8 equal portions and shape them into patties about 1/2 inch thick. Place them on a parchment-lined tray or plate.
Step 3: Chill for Better Texture (Optional)
Place the patties in the fridge for 15–20 minutes. This helps them firm up and makes frying easier. This step is optional but highly recommended for first-timers.
Step 4: Cook the Patties
Option A: Pan-Frying
- Heat 2 tablespoons of butter or oil in a nonstick skillet over medium heat.
- Add the patties without crowding the pan.
- Cook 3–4 minutes on each side or until golden brown and heated through.
Option B: Baking
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Arrange patties on a parchment-lined baking tray.
- Lightly brush with olive oil.
- Bake for 15–18 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Option C: Air Fryer
- Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Spray both sides of the patties with cooking spray.
- Air fry for 10–12 minutes, flipping once.
🧠 Pro Tips for Success
- Use moist chicken – Dry, overcooked chicken will make dry patties. If using leftover chicken, consider adding an extra spoon of mayo or a splash of broth.
- Don’t overmix – Gently mix until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough patties.
- Uniform size matters – This ensures even cooking.
- Rest the patties – Let them rest after cooking for 3–5 minutes to let the juices redistribute.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
Wondering how to serve your chicken patties? Here are some delicious and creative ideas:
🌿 As a Main Course
- With roasted vegetables and quinoa
- Alongside garlic mashed potatoes and green beans
- Served with a side of cauliflower rice and a dollop of Greek yogurt
🥪 As a Sandwich
- Between whole grain buns with lettuce, tomato, and homemade aioli
- Stuffed in pita pockets with tzatziki and cucumber slices
- Sliders with melted cheese and spicy mayo for game day
🧺 For Meal Prep
- Add to lunchboxes with cherry tomatoes, grapes, and hummus
- Pair with a kale salad for a nutrient-dense weekday lunch
- Eat cold as a protein-rich snack on the go
🧑🍳 For Kids
- Make mini patties and serve with ketchup or ranch dip
- Sneak in grated zucchini or carrots for hidden veggies
- Add shredded cheddar and shape into nuggets
🔄 Storage and Reheating Instructions
Fridge:
- Store cooked patties in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer:
- Let patties cool completely, then freeze on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag. Store for up to 3 months.
Reheat:
- Skillet: Reheat on low heat for 2–3 minutes per side.
- Oven: 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes.
- Air fryer: 5–7 minutes at 350°F (175°C).
📊 Nutritional Information (Per Patty)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 175 kcal |
| Protein | 15g |
| Carbohydrates | 3g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sugar | 0.5g |
| Fat | 12g |
These patties are naturally low-carb, high-protein, gluten-free, and easily adaptable for dairy-free or keto diets.
💬 Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use canned chicken?
Yes, but drain it well and shred it finely. Fresh chicken gives better texture, but canned works in a pinch.
Are chicken patties healthy?
Absolutely! When pan-fried in a small amount of healthy fat or baked/air-fried, these patties are a great source of lean protein, healthy fats, and fiber.
What’s the best binder for patties?
A mix of egg and a moisture-retaining ingredient like mayo or Greek yogurt. Almond flour or breadcrumbs also help keep everything together.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, just replace the butter with olive oil or coconut oil and use a dairy-free mayo substitute.
How do I keep the patties from falling apart?
Ensure the mixture is moist but firm. Rest the mixture before shaping. Chill before cooking. Don’t flip too early during frying.
🌍 Global Twists on Chicken Patties
Want to add a unique flavor spin to your patties? Try these global-inspired variations:
- Mexican: Add cumin, corn, jalapeño, and chopped cilantro
- Italian: Mix in grated parmesan, basil, and sun-dried tomatoes
- Asian: Add soy sauce, grated ginger, garlic, and green onion
- Indian: Use turmeric, garam masala, and chopped coriander
- Middle Eastern: Mix with tahini, za’atar, and lemon zest
📝 Final Thoughts
These homemade chicken patties are proof that comfort food can be healthy, simple, and endlessly versatile. Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a hungry family, this recipe adapts effortlessly to your needs.
With just a few wholesome ingredients, a skillet (or oven), and some creativity, you can have a delicious batch of crispy, tender chicken patties on the table in no time.
