Easy and Simple Air Fryer Chicken Patties
Crispy, golden, and absolutely irresistible – these air fryer chicken patties are about to become your new weeknight dinner hero! Did you know that air frying can reduce cooking time by up to 25% while creating that perfect crispy exterior we all crave?
These tender, juicy patties cook in just 15 minutes and deliver restaurant-quality results right in your kitchen. What makes them special is their incredible simplicity – no messy oil splatters, no complicated techniques,
just pure delicious comfort food that your whole family will devour. They’re even easier than our popular [air fryer chicken wings] and twice as versatile for meal planning. Get ready to fall in love with the easiest chicken dinner ever!
Table of Contents
What Are Air Fryer Chicken Patties?
Ever wondered why we call them “patties” instead of just chicken pieces? Well, these delightful little rounds of crispy goodness got their name from their perfectly flat, round shape that resembles a hamburger patty!
My grandmother used to say they looked like “little golden pancakes of joy,” and honestly, she wasn’t wrong. The beauty of air fryer chicken patties lies in their universal appeal – they’re essentially comfort food in its purest form.
As they say, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” and these patties have certainly won over countless hearts in kitchens everywhere. Ready to create your own crispy masterpiece?
Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Chicken Patties Recipe
The Ultimate Crispy Perfection
These air fryer chicken patties deliver that satisfying crunch we all crave without the guilt of deep frying. The hot circulating air creates a golden, crispy coating that’s absolutely addictive. Each bite offers a perfect contrast between the crunchy exterior and the tender, juicy chicken inside. Your taste buds will thank you for this healthier alternative that doesn’t compromise on flavor.
Budget-Friendly Family Favorite
Making these patties at home costs a fraction of what you’d spend on frozen or restaurant versions. Ground chicken is an affordable protein that stretches beautifully when mixed with simple pantry ingredients. You’ll save money while knowing exactly what goes into your family’s food – no mysterious preservatives or additives here!
Endless Flavor Possibilities
The beauty of these patties lies in their versatility. Season them with Italian herbs for a Mediterranean twist, add some spice with cayenne pepper, or keep it classic with simple salt and pepper.
They’re like a blank canvas waiting for your creative touch. Unlike our [air fryer fish sticks], these patties absorb flavors beautifully and can be customized for every palate. Why not start your air fryer chicken patty journey today?
How to Make Air Fryer Chicken Patties
Quick Overview
These air fryer chicken patties are the perfect combination of simple and delicious. What makes them so special is how the air fryer creates that incredible crispy texture while keeping the inside perfectly moist and tender. The secret lies in the breadcrumb coating that transforms into a golden, crunchy shell.
Preparation Time: 10 minutes Cooking Time: 15 minutes Total Time: 25 minutes Serves: 4 people
Key Ingredients for Air Fryer Chicken Patties
For the Patties:
- 1 lb ground chicken (or finely chopped chicken breast)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko preferred)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Coating:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried herbs (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, beaten egg, minced garlic, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix gently with your hands until just combined. Don’t overmix as this can make the patties tough.
Step 2: Shape the Patties
Divide the mixture into 6-8 equal portions. Using slightly wet hands, shape each portion into a patty about 1/2 inch thick. Place the shaped patties on a plate and refrigerate for 10 minutes to help them hold their shape.
Step 3: Set Up Your Breading Station
Create three shallow dishes: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with panko breadcrumbs mixed with garlic powder and herbs. This assembly line makes coating much easier and less messy.
Step 4: Coat the Patties
Remove patties from the refrigerator. Dredge each patty first in flour, then dip in beaten egg, and finally coat thoroughly with seasoned breadcrumbs. Press the breadcrumbs gently to help them adhere.
Step 5: Preheat Your Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3-5 minutes. This ensures even cooking and helps create that perfect crispy exterior.
Step 6: Cook the Patties
Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Place the coated patties in the basket, leaving space between each one. Cook for 7-8 minutes, then flip carefully and cook for another 6-7 minutes until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Step 7: Rest and Serve
Remove the patties from the air fryer and let them rest for 2-3 minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute and prevents them from falling apart.
What to Serve Air Fryer Chicken Patties With
These versatile patties pair beautifully with so many sides! Try them with creamy mashed potatoes and steamed vegetables for a classic comfort meal. They’re also fantastic on burger buns with lettuce, tomato, and your favorite sauce.
For a lighter option, serve them over a fresh garden salad with ranch dressing. Sweet potato fries make an excellent crispy companion, while mac and cheese turns this into the ultimate comfort food feast.
Don’t forget about international flavors! Serve them with rice and teriyaki sauce for an Asian twist, or pair them with pasta and marinara for an Italian-inspired dinner.
Top Tips for Perfecting Air Fryer Chicken Patties
Choose the Right Ground Chicken
Ground chicken can vary in fat content. Look for ground chicken with about 7-10% fat content for the juiciest results. If you can only find lean ground chicken, add a tablespoon of olive oil to the mixture to prevent dryness.
Don’t Skip the Chilling Step
Refrigerating the shaped patties for 10 minutes helps them hold together during cooking. This simple step prevents your patties from falling apart in the air fryer.
Avoid Overcrowding
Give your patties room to breathe in the air fryer basket. Overcrowding leads to uneven cooking and less crispy results. Cook in batches if necessary.
Use a Meat Thermometer
The safest way to ensure your patties are fully cooked is to check the internal temperature. Ground chicken should reach 165°F (74°C) for food safety.
Experiment with Seasonings
Try adding different herbs and spices to customize your patties. Italian seasoning, ranch seasoning packets, or even taco seasoning can create exciting flavor variations.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Refrigerator Storage: Store cooked patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
Freezer Storage: These patties freeze beautifully! Wrap individually in plastic wrap, then store in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Label with the date for easy tracking.
Reheating Instructions: To maintain crispiness, reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3-4 minutes. For frozen patties, increase time to 6-8 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Microwave Option: While not ideal for crispiness, you can reheat in the microwave for 30-60 seconds. Place on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel.
Creative Serving Ideas
Transform your air fryer chicken patties into exciting meals! Slice them up for chicken Caesar salads, or dice them for pasta dishes. They make excellent additions to grain bowls with quinoa and roasted vegetables.
For kids, try cutting them into fun shapes before coating and cooking. They’re also perfect for meal prep – cook a batch on Sunday and use them throughout the week in different ways.
Create a chicken patty bar with various toppings like different cheeses, sauces, and vegetables. Let everyone build their own perfect combination!
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Patties falling apart? This usually means the mixture is too wet or wasn’t chilled long enough. Add more breadcrumbs to bind the mixture better.
Not crispy enough? Increase cooking time by 2-3 minutes, or spray the patties lightly with oil before cooking.
Dry patties? Your ground chicken might be too lean. Add a tablespoon of olive oil or mayonnaise to the mixture next time.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Per Patty (1/6 of recipe) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 185 |
| Protein | 22g |
| Fat | 6g |
| Carbs | 12g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sodium | 380mg |
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken breast instead of ground chicken?
Absolutely! Finely chop or pulse chicken breast in a food processor until it resembles ground chicken. This actually gives you more control over the texture.
Do I need to flip the patties during cooking?
Yes, flipping ensures even browning and cooking. Use a thin spatula to flip carefully after 7-8 minutes.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! Shape and coat the patties, then refrigerate for up to 24 hours before cooking. You can also freeze the uncooked coated patties for up to 1 month.
What if I don’t have panko breadcrumbs?
Regular breadcrumbs work fine, though panko creates a crispier texture. You can also make your own by processing day-old bread in a food processor.
Can I use an egg substitute?
Yes! Try flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) or commercial egg replacers. The texture may vary slightly.
These air fryer chicken patties are proof that simple ingredients can create extraordinary results. With their crispy exterior, tender interior, and endless customization options, they’re destined to become a regular in your dinner rotation.
The best part? You’ll have them on the table in less than 30 minutes with minimal cleanup required. So fire up that air fryer and get ready to enjoy the most delicious homemade chicken patties you’ve ever tasted!
