Air Fryer Chicken Patties

If you’re looking for a quick, healthy, and incredibly tasty meal option, look no further than Air Fryer Chicken Patties. These patties are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, offering a delicious combination of savory flavors. Whether you’re preparing dinner for the family, need a speedy meal, or are on a health kick, these chicken patties are the perfect choice. Not only do they cook in a fraction of the time compared to traditional frying, but using an air fryer also means you’ll enjoy the same great texture with significantly less oil.

This Air Fryer Chicken Patties recipe is ideal for anyone who wants a meal that’s quick, simple, and healthy without compromising on taste. It’s also incredibly versatile, making it suitable for different diets and preferences. You can enjoy it as a patty in a sandwich, on a salad, or with your favorite side dishes. So, whether you’re feeding a crowd or looking for a fast weeknight dinner, these chicken patties are the perfect solution.

Why You’ll Love These Air Fryer Chicken Patties

• Quick and Easy: The Air Fryer Chicken Patties cook in under 20 minutes, making them the perfect option for a busy weeknight.
• Healthy Cooking: The air fryer uses significantly less oil than traditional frying, making this a healthier alternative without sacrificing flavor or crunch.
• Customizable: These patties can easily be adapted to suit your dietary needs or preferences. Add herbs, spices, or toppings to make them your own.
• Kid-Friendly: The crispy texture and mild flavor make these patties a hit with kids, and they’re a great option for picky eaters.

Ingredients for Air Fryer Chicken Patties

To make these Air Fryer Chicken Patties, you’ll need a few simple ingredients that are likely already in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 lb ground chicken
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (you can use gluten-free breadcrumbs if desired)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• 1/4 cup chopped onion (optional)
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano (or your favorite herb)
• Olive oil spray (or another cooking spray)

Step by Step Instructions for Air Fryer Chicken Patties

Making Air Fryer Chicken Patties is super simple and only takes about 15-20 minutes. Here’s how to do it:

1. Preheat the Air Fryer:

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes. This will ensure that your chicken patties cook evenly and get that golden, crispy texture.

2. Prepare the Chicken Mixture:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, chopped onion (if using), minced garlic, salt, pepper, and oregano. Mix everything together until fully combined. If the mixture feels too wet, add more breadcrumbs a little at a time.

3. Form the Patties:

Using your hands, form the chicken mixture into patties. You should be able to make about 4-6 patties, depending on your preferred size. Ensure they are uniform in thickness for even cooking.

4. Spray with Oil:

Lightly spray both sides of the patties with olive oil spray to ensure they get nice and crispy in the air fryer.

5. Air Fry the Patties:

Place the patties in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they are not touching. Air fry for 10-12 minutes, flipping the patties halfway through. The patties should be golden brown and cooked through with an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

6. Serve and Enjoy:

Once the patties are done, remove them from the air fryer and serve immediately. They’re perfect in a sandwich, as a main dish with a side, or even on a salad.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

For this Air Fryer Chicken Patties recipe, you’ll need the following kitchen tools:

• Air fryer: This is the star of the recipe and what gives the patties their crispy texture with little to no oil.
• Mixing bowl: For combining all the ingredients for the patties.
• Spoon or hands: To mix the ingredients and form the patties.
• Cooking spray: To ensure the patties crisp up nicely in the air fryer.
• Meat thermometer: Optional but useful for ensuring your patties have reached a safe internal temperature of 165°F.

Tips, Swaps, and Variations for Air Fryer Chicken Patties

These Air Fryer Chicken Patties are incredibly versatile, allowing you to personalize them to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs. Here are some helpful tips, swaps, and variations to make your chicken patties even more exciting and tailored to your lifestyle:

1. Make It Spicy

If you love a little heat in your meals, there are several ways to spice up your Air Fryer Chicken Patties:

• Red Pepper Flakes: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes directly into the chicken mixture to infuse subtle heat throughout the patties.
• Cayenne Pepper: For a bolder, spicier kick, cayenne pepper is an excellent addition. Start with 1/4 teaspoon and adjust according to your heat tolerance.
• Hot Sauce: Mix a tablespoon of your favorite hot sauce into the chicken mixture for a tangy and spicy flavor that will permeate each bite. You can experiment with different types of hot sauces, such as buffalo, sriracha, or chipotle.

If you prefer a milder option, just reduce the amount of spice or omit it entirely.

2. Herb Variations

Herbs play a significant role in enhancing the flavor of your patties. While oregano is a classic choice, feel free to swap it out for your preferred herbs:

• Thyme: Known for its earthy and slightly lemony flavor, thyme pairs beautifully with chicken and adds depth to your patties.
• Basil: Fresh or dried basil lends a sweet, aromatic note that works wonderfully with the savory chicken. Basil also complements Italian-style toppings, like marinara and mozzarella.
• Parsley: Fresh parsley offers a mild, fresh flavor and brightens up the overall taste. It’s a great option for those who want a more subtle herb infusion.

Mix and match your herbs to find the combination that suits your tastes best. You can even use dried herb blends like Italian seasoning or Herbes de Provence to simplify things.

3. Add Veggies for Extra Nutrition

Not only will adding vegetables enhance the flavor of your chicken patties, but it will also boost their nutritional value:

• Spinach: Finely chopped spinach can be added directly into the chicken mixture. It will give your patties a boost of iron, fiber, and vitamins, plus a mild, savory flavor.
• Zucchini: Grated zucchini adds moisture to the patties and a subtle vegetal taste. It’s also a great way to sneak some extra vegetables into your meals without anyone noticing.
• Bell Peppers: Finely diced bell peppers—red, yellow, or green—will add a slight sweetness and a pop of color to your patties. They’re also a great source of vitamin C.

If you want to add veggies, just make sure they are finely chopped or grated to ensure even cooking and a uniform texture in the patties.

4. Low-Carb Option

If you’re following a low-carb or keto diet, there are easy substitutions for the breadcrumbs to keep these patties in line with your goals:

• Almond Flour: Almond flour is a popular low-carb alternative to breadcrumbs. It’s gluten-free and provides a slightly nutty flavor that complements the chicken. Use almond flour in place of breadcrumbs in a 1:1 ratio.
• Coconut Flour: Coconut flour is another great gluten-free and low-carb option. It’s more absorbent than almond flour, so you may need to use less of it. Start with half the amount of coconut flour and adjust until you get the right consistency for the patty mixture.

These swaps not only make the patties keto-friendly, but they also contribute to a richer flavor profile, especially almond flour with its mild sweetness.

5. Cheese Lovers’ Delight

For those who adore cheesy dishes, adding cheese to the chicken mixture will take your Air Fryer Chicken Patties to the next level:

• Shredded Mozzarella: Mozzarella is a classic choice. It melts beautifully and gives the patties a gooey, cheesy center that’s irresistible. You can even stuff the patties with a little mozzarella for an extra cheesy surprise.
• Cheddar Cheese: If you love sharp flavors, try adding shredded cheddar cheese to the chicken mixture. It will give the patties a tangy, bold flavor that pairs perfectly with the crispy exterior.
• Parmesan: Parmesan is another excellent cheese choice. Adding freshly grated Parmesan to the chicken mixture will elevate the flavor and provide a touch of savory richness.

For a combination of flavors, feel free to mix different types of cheese together. Mozzarella and cheddar create a nice balance between melty and sharp, while Parmesan adds a layer of depth.

How to Store Leftovers

If you have any leftover Air Fryer Chicken Patties, here’s how to store them properly:

• In the Refrigerator: Let the patties cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• In the Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooked patties. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for 1-2 hours. Once frozen, transfer the patties to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, simply place them in the air fryer for a few minutes at 375°F until heated through.

Food and Drink Pairings for Air Fryer Chicken Patties

These Air Fryer Chicken Patties are incredibly versatile and can be paired with a variety of sides and drinks:

• Side Dishes: Pair your chicken patties with a simple side salad, roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or sweet potato fries for a complete meal.
• Buns and Bread: Serve the patties on a soft bun for a delicious sandwich or pile them on top of a toasted whole grain bread for extra fiber.
• Drinks: Complement your meal with a cold glass of iced tea, lemonade, or a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc.

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner solution or a tasty meal prep option, Air Fryer Chicken Patties are the perfect choice. These crispy, juicy patties are not only easy to make but are customizable to fit your flavor preferences and dietary needs. From spicy variations to the addition of healthy veggies, the options are endless. Plus, with the air fryer, you can enjoy all the crispy goodness without the added oil, making this a healthier alternative to traditional fried patties.

The Air Fryer Chicken Patties are ideal for busy weeknights, meal prep, or even as a crowd-pleasing appetizer for gatherings. Their versatility allows you to create a dish that satisfies everyone’s cravings, whether you’re sticking to a low-carb diet, incorporating more vegetables into your meals, or simply indulging in a cheesy, comforting treat. Serve them in buns, over salads, or paired with sides of your choice, and you’re guaranteed a meal that everyone will love.

If you enjoyed making these Air Fryer Chicken Patties, why not try out more delicious recipes from our blog? Our Steak Alfredo Recipe will satisfy your craving for a rich, creamy dish, while the Chicken Alfredo Soup with Beef and Parmesan Cheese is the perfect comfort meal for chilly evenings. Or, check out our Alfredo Chicken Noodle Soup for a hearty, flavorful option that’s sure to become a family favorite.

Remember to share this recipe with your friends and family, and don’t forget to get a look to our blog for more tasty, air fryer-friendly recipes like these. Let’s make cooking easy, healthy, and delicious!